In recent years, overweight has become a global epidemic. More than 1.9 billion adults worldwide are overweight, and over 650 million of them are obese. In the United States alone, nearly 107 million adults are considered obese. Obesity is a major risk factor for many chronic diseases, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Overweight is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher. BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. To calculate your BMI, divide your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. A BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese.
There are many factors that can contribute to being overweight or obese. These include genetics, lifestyle choices (such as diet and physical activity), medical conditions (such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s syndrome), medications (such as steroids or some antidepressants), and psychological factors (such as stress or emotional eating).
Many people who are overweight or obese struggle with losing weight and keeping it off long-term. It’s important to remember that successful weight loss requires both healthy eating habits and regular physical activity. If you’re struggling to lose weight on your own, consider talking to your doctor about other treatment options, such as medication or surgery.