Overweight

Increasing numbers on weighing scale? Check your weight

About

For a given height, a range of weight is considered as “normal as per medical parameters. The weight that is higher than “healthy weight for a given height is described as overweight or obese.

In 2016, 39% of women and 39% of men aged 18 and over were overweight [1].

- Causes: genetic, pregnancy, lack of sleep, leptin resistance, consumption of junk and fast food, and, a sedentary lifestyle.
- Self-treatable and self-diagnosable
- Lab tests or imaging not required
- Chronic: can last for years or be lifelong

Body Mass Index, or BMI, is used as a screening tool for overweight or obesity. You can calculate your own BMI by the following formula:
BMI = weight in kg/ [(height in m)*(height in m)]
BMI above 24.9 indicates overweight and obesity
Underlying causative factors of overweight are

Symptoms

- Improper breathing and breathlessness
- increased sweating
- inability to cope with sudden physical activity
- Feeling of fatigue throughout the day
- back and joint pains
- low confidence and self-esteem because of psychological discomfort from body image

Treatment

Self-care
- limit intake of food containing saturated fat, added salt, added sugars, and alcohol
- Avoid fad diets
- Physical exercise is compulsory
- Avoid heavy meal during the night time
Diet

- Eat Plenty of Foods Rich in Vitamin C
- Ensure a Sufficient Intake of Vitamin B
- Reduced fat milk
- Drink plenty of water
Medication
Lipid-lowering or hunger resistant drugs can be prescribed by the doctor.
Specialists
Overcoming overweight requires a holistic approach by doctors, dietitians, and lifestyle coaches. mfine can connect you with holistic experts.