Obesity is on the rise globally and is contributed to by several factors, one of which is modern technology. While technology provides convenience in our daily lives, it does not always have a positive impact on our lifestyle. A familiar example is the rise of doorstep food delivery and private hire drivers, which significantly reduce the need for physical activity, leading to a decrease in movement and overall exercise.
In addition to BMI, waist circumference is a valuable tool for assessing an individual’s health. For men, a waist circumference greater than 90cm increases the risk of health issues related to obesity. For women, the cut-off is 80cm.
Why is Obesity a Concern?
While body positivity and inclusivity are important, it is crucial to understand the health risks associated with being overweight. Maintaining a healthy weight significantly reduces the likelihood of developing other medical conditions.
Common health conditions more prevalent in individuals with obesity include:
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- High blood pressure
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- Diabetes
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- High cholesterol
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- Coronary artery disease
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- Arthritis
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- Gastric reflux
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- Infertility
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- Sleep apnoea
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- Certain cancers
How to Approach Weight Management
Weight management can be challenging, but with the right lifestyle changes and support, it is achievable. Here are some practices to help guide your journey towards better health:
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- Exercise – Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise each week. This will help increase your basal metabolic rate and build muscle, reducing body fat percentage.
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- Nutrition – A balanced diet is essential for sustainable and healthy weight management. Small changes can make a big difference. Cut down on refined sugars, fats, and salt, and increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Our GP Weight Management Programme provides tailored nutritional advice to suit your specific needs.
- Sleep – As highlighted in previous health articles, lack of sleep can lower metabolism and increase appetite. Ensuring you get adequate rest plays an essential role in managing weight effectively.
Sustainable Changes and Support
It’s important to note that lifestyle changes should be sustainable. Having the support of friends or family can help keep you motivated and accountable. While it may take weeks or months to see visible changes, the improvements in energy levels and overall health will be well worth the effort.
At AMC, our doctors can help you set realistic weight loss goals and create action plans as part of our GP Weight Management Programme. We offer a personalised approach, ensuring you have the right tools and guidance to succeed on your weight loss journey.
If you need personalised exercise guidance, our team at AMC can assist with a wellness session, available as part of our comprehensive health services.
Ready to start your weight loss journey? Visit Alliance Medical Centre or schedule a consultation to learn more about our GP Weight Management Programme and how we can help you achieve your health goals.
