Our Contribution to National Obesity Awareness Week

National Obesity Awareness Week

What is Obesity?

Consequences of Obesity

• high blood pressure and high cholesterol which are risk factors for heart disease
• type 2 diabetes
• breathing problems, such as asthma and sleep apnoea
• joint problems, for example, osteoarthritis and musculoskeletal discomfort
• gallstones and gallbladder disease
• mental health problems, for instance, low self-esteem and body image which contribute to conditions like depression and anxiety.

What Can Cause Obesity?

Internal Factors Contributing to Obesity

• Genetics: The genetic information inherited from family members can influence how the body stores and processes fat. A household history of obesity increases the likelihood of obesity due to inherited genetic factors.
• Inactive Lifestyle: Insufficient physical activity or movement can contribute to weight gain, such as periods of sitting at a desk or in front of a screen without regular exercise.
• Poor Dietary Habits: Unhealthy eating patterns, for instance consuming high amounts of processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive calories, can contribute to weight gain.
• Stress: Stress prompts the release of hormones like cortisol, leading to increased appetite, a preference for high-calorie foods, and the accumulation of visceral fat which can contribute to obesity.

External Factors Contributing to Obesity

• Stress: Stress can develop from factors like work pressures or relationship challenges and can disrupt eating patterns, promote unhealthy dietary choices and affect lifestyle behaviours, for example it can reduce physical activity and disrupt sleep, which further contributes to obesity.
• Environmental: The surroundings where people live, work, and spend time can influence eating habits. If the community lacks easy access to fresh and healthy food options, it may cause individuals to eat more processed and unhealthy foods.
• Socio-economic: Financial situations and social environment can impact people’s ability to access healthy food and engage in physical activities. People with lower incomes may find it challenging to afford fresh fruits and vegetables or access recreational facilities for exercise.

Statistics on Obesity in the UK

Current Rates of Obesity

• According to the most recent NHS health survey in England, 25.9% of adults are obese and a further 37.9% are overweight but not obese.

How Have Rates Changed Throughout the Years

• In 1993, 52.9% of people were obese or overweight, obesity accounted for 14.9% of this figure. Indicating there has been an 11% increase in obesity rates in the past 30 years.
• One analysis predicts that by 2040 the percentage of UK adults who are classed as overweight or obese will be 71%. That’s roughly 7 in every 10 people.

Who is at Most Risk?

Strategies Towards Obesity

Preventative Methods of Obesity:

• Choose Healthier Foods: Maintaining a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and good quality protein sources helps contribute to overall wellbeing. This nutritional approach is typically lower in calories and supports essential bodily functions, boosts energy levels, and helps in maintaining a healthy weight.
• Limit Unhealthy Foods: Make conscious choices to limit the consumption of high calorie refined grains, sweets, fried foods, sugary drinks, and processed meats. Reducing the intake of these items can help weight management, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Increase Physical Activity: Incorporating regular exercise, including both aerobic and strength training exercises, plays a fundamental role in weight maintenance. Physical activity not only burns calories but also enhances metabolism, builds muscle, and supports overall cardiovascular health.
• Reduce ‘Sit Time’: Implementing short bursts of activity to offset long periods of sitting has numerous benefits. This practice helps improve circulation, prevent muscle stiffness, and contribute to weight management. Alternatives like standing desks or brief walks can positively impact overall health.
• Improve Sleep: Incorporating consistent, quality sleep is essential for various aspects of health. It assists in metabolism regulation, supports cognitive function, and enhances overall wellbeing. Addressing underlying sleep disorders ensures better rest, promoting optimal health.
• Reduce Stress: Incorporating stress-reducing practices such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises contributes to mental and physical wellbeing. Managing stress levels positively impacts hormonal balance, supports immune function, and reduces the likelihood of emotional eating or unhealthy coping mechanisms.

Remedial Methods of Obesity:

Advantages of Being a Healthy Weight:

• Reduced Organ Disease Risk: A healthy weight not only reduces the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, but also actively contributes to the overall wellbeing, of individuals. By maintaining an optimal weight, the body is better equipped to fight off potential debilitating conditions.
• Increased Energy: Maintaining a healthy weight promotes increased energy levels enabling individuals to engage in a more fulfilling lifestyle.
• Improved Mental Wellbeing: Keeping a healthy weight goes beyond physical wellbeing; it also improves mood and lowers the risk of mental health problems. A healthy body forms the basis for a strong and balanced mental state, promoting overall wellness and happiness.

How Can Everyone Help?

• Healthy Living: Engage in physical activities like walking, exercise routines or sports and choose nutritious meals; limiting processed foods and sugary drinks.
• Spread Awareness: Share information about National Obesity Awareness Week on social media, in discussions and in person.
• Educate Others: Organisations can host educational events in communities, schools, and workplaces and share resources that promote healthy living.
• Support Initiatives: Participate or volunteer in local events or attend workshops and webinars organised for National Obesity Awareness Week.
• Encourage Healthy Habits: Spread awareness in your community and workplace and encourage friends and family to adopt healthy lifestyles.

Final Remarks

What Blue Stream Academy Offers?

• General Practice
• Health and Social Care
• Urgent and Private Care
• Aesthetics
• Dental
• Hospice

We're here to help!