Every single client we see who are classified as obses suffer from one or more of the health-related conditions that I will discuss below. Being overweight is not just about the number on the scale; for many who carry excess weight, losing 5% to 15% of their total weight can dramatically improve weight-related health problems.
Here are the nine most common health issues associated with excess weight:
High blood pressure:
Excess weight or obesity increases the risk of developing high blood pressure. Losing 5-15% or more of body weight can help to lower blood pressure. For instance, someone who weighs 250 lbs should aim to lose between 13-38 pounds.
High cholesterol:
People living with excess weight are more likely to have abnormal cholesterol and triglycerides levels. Losing 5-15% of body weight can help improve each of these levels.
Heart disease:
As weight gain increases blood pressure and cholesterol levels, the risk of developing heart disease also increases. It is essential to address these health problems early before they become more severe.
Prediabetes:
For people with excess weight and prediabetes, losing up to 10% of body weight can help lower their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. For someone that weighs 250lbs, that means losing up to 25lbs.
Type 2 diabetes:
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels. However, studies have shown that losing 2.5% of body weight can help improve blood sugar control. For instance, if someone weighs 250lbs, losing at least 6lbs can be beneficial.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea:
Excess weight increases the risk of serious breathing problems, such as obstructive sleep apnea, which can lead to heart problems. Losing at least 10% of body weight can help significantly improve symptoms of OSA. If you weigh 250 pounds, that means losing 25lbs.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease:
NAFLD is a condition where excess fat is stored in the liver. It is more prevalent in people who are overweight. Losing a minimum of 10% of body weight can help improve NAFLD.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):
(PCOS) is a medical condition in which small cysts form in the ovaries. PCOS is approximately 2x as likely in women with excess weight. Losing 5-15% of body weight can improve several symptoms associated with PCOS, such as menstrual irregularity.
Osteoarthritis:
OA is a type of joint disease and the most prevalent form of arthritis. Increased force on the joints, particularly in the knees, can cause OA, and it is more common in individuals who are obese. In fact, people who are obese are five times more likely to develop knee OA than those who are not. Reducing body weight by 5-10% can help alleviate knee pain and enhance knee function.
Living with obesity is already difficult, but secondary symptoms and health concerns caused by obesity can make the issue much more serious. If you or someone you know is struggling to lose the 5-10% of weight necessary to improve these obesity-related health problems, please contact us for a free weight-loss consultation.