• Source:JND

Do you know that being fat or overweight can have a significant negative impact on your health? Being overweight puts stress on the heart and raises the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. Since extra body fat can impede the function of insulin, obesity and type 2 diabetes are intimately associated. It may also aggravate joint problems, affecting range of motion and resulting in diseases like osteoarthritis. People who are overweight are more likely to suffer from respiratory conditions, including asthma and sleep apnea.

Also, there is a correlation between obesity and a higher risk of developing specific types of cancer. Since obesity is associated with increased rates of sadness and a lower quality of life, mental health is not immune to these consequences. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and prevention of the health risks associated with being overweight or obese is essential.

The Impacts Of Being Overweight And Obesity On Your Health (Image Credit: Canva)

 

Dr. Sunil Kumar Baliyan, who is a consultant in internal medicine and assistant medical director at Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida, exclusively told Jagran English about the impacts of obesity and overweight on your health.

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According to Dr. Sunil, "obesity and overweight are associated with a myriad of adverse health effects, encompassing both physical and metabolic complications. Clinically, these conditions are characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat, often measured through the body mass index (BMI), and pose significant risks to overall well-being. One of the primary health consequences of obesity is the heightened risk of cardiovascular diseases. Individuals with excess body weight often exhibit elevated levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure, predisposing them to conditions such as coronary artery disease, stroke, and heart failure. The chronic inflammatory state induced by adipose tissue contributes to the development and progression of these cardiovascular disorders."

In addition, he said, "Obesity also profoundly affects metabolic health, increasing the likelihood of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Adipose tissue dysfunction leads to the release of pro-inflammatory substances, impairing insulin signaling and glucose metabolism. This insulin resistance, coupled with the dysregulation of adipokines, contributes to the pathogenesis of diabetes and its associated complications, including neuropathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular complications."

The Impacts Of Being Overweight And Obesity On Your Health (Image Credit: Canva)

Furthermore, he added, "Respiratory complications are another clinical concern associated with obesity. Excessive body weight imposes additional stress on the respiratory system, leading to conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea and obesity hypoventilation syndrome. These disorders are characterized by compromised airway function, impaired oxygen exchange, and an increased risk of respiratory failure, particularly during sleep."

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At last, Dr. Sunil said, "Joint problems, specifically osteoarthritis, are prevalent among individuals with obesity. The excess mechanical load on weight-bearing joints accelerates cartilage degeneration, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Moreover, obesity and overweight have far-reaching health implications, affecting the cardiovascular, metabolic, respiratory, musculoskeletal, and oncologic systems. Understanding and addressing these clinical consequences are imperative for comprehensive patient care and the development of effective prevention and intervention strategies."