Obesity, Serious Threat to Health among Men’s in long run

Obesity isn't just a cosmetic problem it's a health hazard. Obesity is recognized by the National Institute of Health as a disease in itself, the medical problems caused by Obesity are serious and often life-threatening. For many obese people, health concerns are less important than the emotional suffering they face at the hands of thinner people. Obesity rate in India and especially in metros is increasing. Fast moving lifestyle in the metros is one of the reasons. Eating habits have changed, from home cooked food to fast food and junk. In the global world of today obesity possess a significant health challenge to millions of people. Obesity rate in women is higher compared to men however the percentage of obesity in men has increased. 

Many serious medical conditions have been linked to obesity, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Obesity is also linked to higher rate of certain types of cancer. Men may be surprised to learn that obesity takes a particular toll on prostate health, male hormones and sexuality. More early the person realizes it is better as the process would be easier and result oriented.  Men who are obese are more likely than non-obese men to develop cancer of the colon, rectum, or prostate etc. Kidney stones strike men twice as often as women and obesity increase this risk for male. One of the greatest health risk faced by obese people is Diabetes. There are 90% chances of obese people to be diabetic, hence there is a term called ‘Diabesity’ [Diabetes + Obesity].

Our bodies need calories to sustain life and be physically active, but to maintain weight we need to balance the energy we eat with the energy we use. There are many factors responsible for obesity in men like, Genetic, Environmental & Social, Hypothyroidism, Lack of Sleep, Psychological effects plus other medical reasons. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines overweight and obesity as 'the abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health.  Indian men are more prone belly fats. 

 Few facts that can’t be ignored:

•  Research suggests that obesity is driving the rise in people suffering from acid reflux
• Being overweight puts extra stress on the joints consequently can cause osteoarthritis
• Obesity and Diabetes goes hand-in-hand leading to ‘Diabesity’ 
• Indian men have genetic disorder to accumulate fats also known as ‘fat depositary belly’

People who are obese may have the symptoms of the medical conditions like coronary artery (heart) disease, depression, diabetes, gallbladder or liver disease,  joint disease (e.g., osteoarthritis),stroke. High blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, breathing problems, etc. are common. The more obese a person is, the more likely they are to have health problems related to obesity. Aside from the medical complications, obesity is also linked to psychosocial problems such as low self-esteem, discrimination, difficulty finding employment, and reduced quality of life. Although a person's genetic makeup may contribute to obesity, it's not the primary cause. Environmental and behavioral factors have a greater influence.

Awareness about obesity among men has increased; most of the men have started taking precautions to control weight. Consciousness about risk factors for obesity and correct nutrition is necessary. Due to time constraints or laid back attitude, men do not follow proper schedule. Majority of the men do not consume recommended nutritious food which are good sources of potassium and can reduce the impact of sodium on blood pressure. Although consciousness has increased as working men now want to maintain the positive image at work place or society by staying fit.

Fitness is not a goal it is a way of life. We can remain fit by placing it among top 5 priorities of our life. As we have goals for our finances, career, social & family life, for our children and so on, it important to have goal to have fit & healthy body. This is the first step, towards a fitter you. Once this is taken as a goal, diet & lifestyle changes, start falling in place gradually. Below are precautions that will help in staying healthier:

·    Have realistic goals: Male who is 40kg overweight and aims for six pack belly, the chances of reaching the goal is close to failing.  Aiming for 5 kg reduction or dropping one size of trouser is the right way for fat/weight loss. The successful results shall motivate to aim for more

·    Be hopeful: Whenever a person starts something new, hurdles do come. Do not lose hope. They are just stepping stones to success. Keep moving. Male often expect quick results, and get de-motivated  

·    Take professional help: As in every sphere of life, professional advice has no substitute.  Professional obesity clinics, weight loss counselors, fitness consultants can share combined expertise of thousands of clients to give good results. Contribution from the client is equally important, for the success of a fat loss program. One can get rid of obesity at any stage. Control on diet and lifestyle is important, irrespective of other measures taken and first step towards fat loss. At second stage client is suggested to go for non-surgical treatment like U-Lipo, Mesotherapy, Lipodissolve or other non surgical options available. The extreme stage i.e. for morbid obesity is when patients are suggested to opt for Bariatric surgery

·    Fitness is a lifelong commitment: Body is a dynamic machine. It changes daily depending on nutrition intake, activity levels, hormones, ageing, emotions and many other factors. The need to eat right and equally important is physical exercise, this helps in reducing unwanted fat from body, for longer duration or even lifelong

·    Set alarms: Set fitness alarm, for yourself.  Something like a digital weighing scale at home or sudden increase in trouser size should act as fitness alarm and should set the ball rolling.  Do not ignore the alarm, avoiding the problem will lead to health risk in long run

 Moreover, people in cities follow a sedentary lifestyle. Little or no physical activity and a predilection for gizmos such as video games, computers are to blame. As per WHO worldwide, at least 2.8 million people die each year as a result of being overweight or obese. Research states that Indian men have genetic disorders to accumulate belly fats compared to, one in west. Indian men therefore are more prone to belly fats. Population living in big metros or booming small towns, are at the higher risk of being obese. Proper precautions for life long can help person stay fit and healthy and can prevent obesity.

Content Author : Prettislim