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Can obesity be prevented?

It is easier to prevent weight gain than to try and lose it. The same lifestyle changes that can help to lose weight can also help to prevent weight gain. Recommended approaches to prevent weight gain include reducing energy intake via a healthy eating plan, and increasing your physical activity levels to increase your energy output.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is obesity?

Obesity is having a body weight that is greater than that considered healthy for your height. The main contributor to an increase in body weight is excess fat, which can have a range of serious consequences for your health.

What is the difference between being overweight and obese?

The body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference are used to classify the weight of adults into healthy, overweight and obese. The BMI is calculated by dividing weight (in kilograms) by height (in meters), squared. For a healthy …

What is the body mass index?

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a tool used to classify weight in adults into healthy, overweight and obese. BMI is calculated by dividing your weight (in kilograms) by your height (in meters), squared.

Is the body mass index (BMI) completely accurate?

No, the BMI is a only an approximate guide and it is not equally accurate for everyone. One reason for this is that people with the same weight can carry different amounts of fat compared to their lean body mass (bone and muscle). BMI can …

What causes obesity?

Weight gain that can lead to obesity is caused by consuming more energy through food and drink than your body can use. Some medical conditions and medications can contribute to weight gain.

What are the health consequences of obesity?

Carrying extra weight has a range of consequences on the body. Not only can it increase levels of inflammation in the body and affect the body's metabolic processes, it also places extra load and stress on important structures such as the …

What medications can cause obesity?

Some medications have been shown to increase weight gain. They include: medications for bipolar disorder (including lithium, clozapine and olanzapine); medications for type 2 diabetes (sulphonylureas such as chlorpropamide and thiazolidenes such as …

Why does obesity cause health problems?

Carrying extra weight has a range of consequences on the body. Not only can it increase levels of inflammation in the body and affect the body's metabolic processes, it also places extra load and stress on important structures such as the joints, …

How can I lose weight?

Losing weight can be challenging, and it's important to have realistic expectations about how fast you can lose weight and how much weight you plan to lose. Your doctor and other health professionals can provide guidance and support towards achieving a healthy …

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 13 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Votes: 1227 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Childhood immunizations

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