Morbid Obesity: What are the Health Consequences of Morbid Obesity and How to Treat it?

 

Morbid obesity is a severe health condition characterized by excessive body weight, significantly increasing the risk of various health complications. It is essential to comprehend the health consequences associated with morbid obesity and explore effective treatment options to address this critical issue. 

 

Morbid obesity, defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, is associated with various health consequences. There are many causes that have been recorded for morbid obesity. Down below, we have a few on the list that are the immediate ones to speed up the weight gain and turn into morbid obesity.

 

Some of the key morbid obesity causes include:

Poor Diet:

It starts with a poor diet. When we start adding up the high calories, unhealthy fats, sugar, and processed foods in our meals. Not taking enough water and green vegetables plus fruits.

 

Sedentary Lifestyle:

Lacking physical activity - workouts - yoga, and meditation is considered a significant factor in the development of obesity. Spending long hours sitting at work, engaging in minimal exercise, and leading a sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain over time.

 

Genetics:

Genetics also play a significant role in determining if a person will end up obese within a certain period of time. Certain genetic factors affect metabolism, appetite regulation, and fat storage, making it more challenging for some individuals to maintain a healthy weight.

 

Environmental Factors:

The obesogenic environment, characterized by easy access to high-calorie processed foods, increased portion sizes, sedentary jobs, and reliance on technology, contributes to the rise in obesity rates. These factors make consuming excess calories easier and engaging in minimal physical activity.

 

Psychological Factors:

People with stress disorder sometimes find comfort in eating, and this emotional eating, stress, depression, and other psychological factors can contribute to weight gain and obesity. This is as harmful as not working out and ending up having obesity on the roll.

 

Health Consequences of Morbid Obesity:

Cardiovascular Diseases:

People who have Morbid obesity are at risk of getting heart attacks and hypertension, coronary artery disease, and strokes. This is because more fats make it difficult for health to function properly and eventually lead to increased blood pressure and cholesterol level.

 

Type 2 Diabetes:

Obesity is directly connected to insulin resistance, which is also considered a key factor in developing type 2 diabetes. Suppose a person is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. In that case, he or she is also at a higher risk of attracting multiple health issues, just as cardiovascular, nerve damage, and chronic metabolic disorder.

 

Respiratory Issues:

Not to mention the respiratory problems that come with excessive weight gain, and blood supply gets difficult to reach smoothly. Besides respiratory problems, more are associated with obesity, such as sleeping problems and obesity hypoventilation syndrome. 

 

Joint Problems:

Obesity places an excessive hold on joints. It's just like a machine overweight, and its nuts will get stiff after some time to hold up to that weight and eventually get retard. 

 

Mental Health Disorders:

Morbid obesity can significantly impact mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Social stigma and discrimination associated with obesity can further exacerbate these psychological issues.

 

Morbid Obesity Treatment and Strategies:

Lifestyle Modifications:

Opt for a varied lifestyle that suits your health routine and manages the weight and mass your body holds. That includes your exercise - workout - Yoga - meditation, and eating habits. Consulting a registered dietitian or nutritionist can provide personalized dietary recommendations.

 

Behavioral Therapy:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals develop healthier habits, improve self-esteem, and manage emotional eating patterns. It focuses on identifying and modifying negative thoughts and behaviors related to food and body image.

 

Medications:

In some cases, healthcare professionals may prescribe medications to assist with weight loss. These medications work by suppressing appetite, reducing fat absorption, or increasing metabolism. However, medication should be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes under medical supervision.

 

Bariatric Surgery:

For individuals with severe obesity, bariatric surgery may be a viable option. Procedures like gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, or gastric banding can help reduce stomach size, limit food intake, and promote weight loss. 

 

Ongoing Support:

Maintaining long-term weight loss requires ongoing support and monitoring. Joining support groups, working with healthcare professionals, and seeking psychological counseling can help individuals navigate the challenges associated with morbid obesity.

 

Morbid obesity poses significant health risks, including cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, respiratory issues, joint problems, and mental health disorders. Treating morbid obesity requires a multifaceted approach that includes lifestyle modifications, behavioral therapy, medications, and, in severe cases, bariatric surgery. It is crucial for individuals with morbid obesity to seek professional guidance by booking an in-person appointment and develop a comprehensive treatment plan to improve their overall health and quality of life.