Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, shares practical tips for managing obesity and maintaining a healthy weight.
According to the World Health Organization, more than 890 million adults and 160 million children worldwide are classified as obese, making this a pressing public health concern—not just an individual issue.
Obesity is linked to serious health risks, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and some cancers. A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher often defines it, but BMI doesn’t account for muscle mass or fat distribution. Tools such as waist-to-hip ratio or body composition analysis offer a clearer view of overall health.
The good news is that small, simple changes can significantly impact your well-being and quality of life. Adopting healthier habits can significantly improve your well-being and quality of life.
Causes of Obesity
Obesity has many causes, including genetics, unhealthy eating, and lack of activity. Easy access to high-calorie foods and limited exercise opportunities add to the challenge. Medical conditions such as hypothyroidism or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and medications such as antidepressants can also contribute to weight gain.
Health Risks
Obesity affects nearly every system in the body, increasing the risk of serious health issues. It is a major cause of metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, as well as cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and heart disease. Excess weight can make breathing harder, leading to problems like sleep apnea. It also puts extra pressure on joints, which can cause arthritis over time. On top of physical issues, obesity is linked to mental health struggles, such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
Tips for Managing Your Weight
Healthy weight management doesn’t require crash diets or extreme methods. Instead, it’s about making small, simple changes you can stick to:
Prioritise Whole Foods
Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains are nutrient-dense and naturally lower in calories, making them an excellent choice for a healthier diet. To incorporate these into your routine, swap processed snacks for fresh fruit or nuts, opt for wholegrain bread and pasta instead of refined versions, and cook meals at home to have better control over ingredients and portion sizes.
Get Quality Sleep
Sleep quality is crucial because a lack of rest disrupts hormones that control hunger and fullness, often resulting in weight gain. To improve your sleep, aim for 7–9 hours each night, stick to a regular sleep schedule—even on weekends—and establish a calming bedtime routine, such as reading or meditating, to help you unwind and prepare for restful sleep.
Practice Mindful Eating
Mindful eating encourages you to tune into your hunger cues, avoid overeating, and truly enjoy your meals. It involves eating without distractions like TV or smartphones, chewing slowly to appreciate the flavours and textures of your food, and stopping when you feel satisfied rather than full.
Stay Active
Regular physical activity is key to burning calories, building muscle, and boosting metabolism, all of which contribute to better health and weight management. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, such as brisk walking or swimming, and include strength training exercises twice a week to build lean muscle.
Hydrate Properly
Staying hydrated boosts metabolism and controls appetite, supporting a healthy lifestyle. Drink water before meals to reduce calories, swap sugary drinks for herbal teas or infused water, and carry a reusable bottle to stay hydrated all day.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can lead to emotional eating and weight gain, making stress management an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. To reduce stress, try yoga, deep breathing, or journaling, and don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist when needed. Additionally, setting aside time for hobbies and relaxation can help you unwind and regain balance, supporting your mental and physical well-being.
Conclusion
Managing weight can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. A healthcare provider or dietitian can help you create a personalised plan and tackle any challenges. While obesity is a complex condition, small, consistent changes can lead to notable improvements. Focusing on fresh, whole foods, staying active, and building healthy habits can transform your health and well-being. This World Obesity Day, take the first step towards a healthier, happier you—every little change makes a difference.