Overeating / Obesity

Am I Obese?

There is much controversy over the obese label, as a majority of Americans are considered obese and overweight. The scientific definition of obesity is a body mass index (BMI) that exceeds 30 (morbid obesity has a BMI greater than 40). Muscular individuals are often mislabeled obese by this measure, which explains a great deal of the controversy. Therefore we can safely (yet loosely) redefine obesity as a condition where the adipose (fat cells) store an excessive amount of fat, which results in a health risk to the individual - obesity has nothing to do with appearance.

Physical Symptoms

Obesity can be characterized by excessive fat storage. Some people store fat in conspicuous places, like their face or arms, yet are not necessarily obese. Obesity results when the strain from carrying and storing the excessive fat becomes burdensome and detrimental to the individual.

Emotional Symptoms

Obesity does not necessarily have emotional symptoms, although it frequently results in shame, depression, self lamenting thoughts, and a withdrawal from public activities. Society's obsession with thinness has ostracized the obese, which can cause feelings of rejection, isolation, and loneliness.

Psychological Symptoms

Psychologically, obesity can cause a downward spiral if left untreated. Those afflicted eat to reward or psychologically sate themselves, which is often a need resulting from their perceived isolation from society, thus continuing a downward spiral.

Who It Effects

Obesity tends to run in families, but that is not to suggest that it cannot be treated. Despite varying bone structures (endomorphic, mesomorphic, ectomorphic), almost all humans are capable of maintaining a healthy body weight - those that are not are treated by medical professionals for other conditions. Obesity is rapidly rising in Westernized countries, which has been attributed to fast food ingredients and quantities, but can be further attributed to excessive starches, sugars, carbohydrates, and food additives.

Treatment

Treatment for obesity involves therapy not just to counter tendencies to overeat and to reward oneself with food, but also to treat the underlying emotional issues. Often the individuals require an outlet for emotional expression, or need to find other ways to reward themselves. Treatment consists of counselling by a qualified counsellor, in regular conjunction with a medical doctor. It is also advised for family members to seek counselling as well to learn how to aid in the recovery process. There are myriad treatment options available - check the services link for treatment options near you.

* If medical attention is needed, immediately seek the care of medical professionals in your area. Do not attempt to self-diagnose.