Obesity is a widespread health problem that has become one of the leading causes of disease and premature death worldwide.
In recent decades, the prevalence of obesity has drastically increased globally, and it is one of the main causes of chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular diseases, among others. It is important to prevent and treat obesity to reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve quality of life.
Obesity is framed in the surplus of body fat that a person possesses. It can be measured by the body mass index (BMI), which is calculated by dividing the weight in kilograms by the height in meters squared. A BMI greater than 30 is considered obese, while a BMI between 25 and 29,9 is considered overweight.
Obesity can be caused by a variety of factors, including an unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, genetic and environmental factors, and hormonal disorders. However, the main contributing factor is the energy imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure. When more energy is consumed than burned, the excess energy is stored as body fat.
Obesity not only has short-term effects on health, but it can also have long-term effects, which can reduce quality of life and increase the risk of chronic disease. Obesity can increase the risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, among others. In addition, obesity can also have an impact on mental and emotional health, including depression and anxiety.
It is vital to take steps to prevent and treat obesity. An important way to prevent obesity is through the adoption of healthy lifestyle habits. Diet is an important factor in preventing obesity. Excessive consumption of foods rich in fats, sugars and salt should also be avoided.
Another important factor in the prevention of obesity is regular physical activity. It is recommended to get at least 150 minutes of moderate to intense physical activity per week. Physical activity not only helps you burn calories and maintain a healthy weight, but it also has many other health benefits, including improving cardiovascular function, increasing muscle strength, and strengthening mental health.
In addition to diet and physical activity, it's important to avoid unhealthy habits like smoking, excessive drinking, and not getting enough sleep. These habits can increase the risk of obesity and chronic diseases.
Obesity prevention is important because it can help prevent and treat a wide range of chronic diseases, which can improve people's quality of life.
Data on Obesity in Canary Islands
Obesity is a major health problem in Canary Islands and in Spain in general. We tell you some facts about obesity that you should know:
- According to the 2017 Spanish National Health Survey, 22,7% of the adult population in Canary Islands is obese, which represents one of the highest rates of obesity in Spain.
- Regarding the prevalence of overweight, the same survey indicates that 38,7% of the adult population in Canary Islands is overweight.
- According to the 2018 "CANIBAL" study, 23,5% of boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 9 in Canary Islands are obese, while 15,5% are overweight.
- In addition, obesity is an important risk factor for various chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, among others.
- The health authorities of Canary Islandshave implemented several initiatives to combat obesity, such as awareness campaigns, physical activity programs, healthy eating and the promotion of healthy habits; but all this must be accompanied by the insistence from the family.
How can obesity be prevented?
There are several steps you can take to prevent obesity and maintain a healthy weight:
- Eat a balanced and varied diet: include healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains in your meals and snacks. Limit the consumption of processed and sugary foods.
- Exercise regularly: Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise a week. You can go for walks, run, swim, cycle or any other activity you enjoy.
- Drink a lot of water: at least 8 glasses of water a day. Water will help you feel full and keep you hydrated.
- Limit alcohol intake: Alcohol contains a lot of empty calories and can increase your appetite. Limit your alcohol intake.
- Get enough sleep: Try to get at least 7-9 hours of sleep a night. Lack of sleep can increase appetite and reduce motivation to exercise.
- Find an exercise buddy or support group: Exercising with friends or in a group can be more fun and will help keep you motivated.
- Seek professional help if necessary: If you're having difficulty managing your weight or lifestyle, consider seeking help from a health professional, such as a doctor or dietitian.
From CanaryDoctor and in this month of March when the world obesity day, we remind you of the importance of incorporating healthy lifestyle habits. If you need help managing your health properly, contact one of our specialists. You will be in the best hands!
