The definition of morbid obesity is not as straightforward as most people think. In fact, even just the definition of obesity can vary from person to person. In general, obesity is a condition where you have too much excess body fat. Morbid obesity is an extreme excess of body fat.
Obesity Diagnosis
Obesity and morbid obesity are usually diagnosed using a body mass index. The body mass index, or BMI, is determined using your weight and your height. The easiest way to determine your BMI is to use an online BMI calculator program. A BMI of 30 to 39.9 is considered obese. A BMI of 40 or more is considered morbidly obese.
Obesity and morbid obesity can generally be discovered by your weight and fat to muscle ratio. If you are 20 percent over your ideal healthy weight, you may be considered obese. If you are 50 percent over your ideal healthy weight, you may be considered morbidly obese. If your excess weight is caused by heavy muscle, you need to take that into consideration. Muscle does not indicate obesity and can change the numbers some. If your excess weight is caused by fat, then your weight can indicate obesity.
Obesity Risks
Obesity and morbid obesity are dangerous conditions that can cause a wide variety of problems. The excess fat on your body can lead to heart disease, gallbladder disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, liver disease and much more.
You may experience a restricted lifestyle due to your obese condition, particularly if you are morbidly obese. Your size may restrict you from being able to use public transportation, popular businesses or even shop for clothes. This restricted lifestyle can often increase the risks of depression.
Obesity Remedies
The one and only cure for obesity is weight loss. However, there are many different methods you can use to achieve this weight loss. The best method for weight loss is simply to decrease your daily caloric intake while increasing your daily physical activity. If this change, for some reason, proves impossible, your doctor may recommend medication or surgery to help you lose weight.
The signs and symptoms of obesity often serve as red flags, indicators that steps should be taken to improve the quality of your life. |
The health risks of obesity reflect just how important it is to take care of your body and overall health. |