According to the World Health Organization, obesity is defined as abnormal and excessive fat accumulation in adipose tissue to the extent that it impairs health. Nowadays, being overweight or obesity, which is mentioned as a global health problem whose incidence is aimed to be reduced and whose treatment is being researched, was a symbol of power, health and wealth in ancient times. If it were not for the health problems it brings with it, perhaps it would still be a highly popular condition today.
"Obesity also affects individuals psychologically and socially"
Dietitian İrem Aksoy said, "Obesity is an important public health problem that can be seen at any age and its incidence is increasing. This problem, which can be improved with nutrition and lifestyle changes, also affects individuals psychologically and socially. Obesity is the most treatable condition among other diseases. Therefore, a correct obesity management is possible with a correct treatment approach."
What are the factors that cause obesity?
Dietitian İrem Aksoy said, "In fact, it is a health problem caused by malnutrition and sedentary life. The most important factor causing obesity is that the energy intake is more than the amount of energy expenditure. Obesity occurs due to the imbalance of energy intake and energy expenditure. Although this is the most important factor, there are situations where it is not possible to avoid obesity even if energy balance is achieved. For example; insufficient physical activity, unbalanced intake of macronutrients, consumption of foods containing more fat and simple carbohydrates than needed, consumption of processed foods, excessive consumption of fried and refined foods, psychological problems and medications used can be listed among the factors that trigger obesity."
What are the problems that obesity can cause?
Dietitian İrem Aksoy said, "Obesity is more serious than other diseases due to the problems it causes. It can be a trigger for many diseases, especially cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal system diseases, cancer and diabetes. In addition to these serious diseases, it can bring problems such as sleep apnea, respiratory problems, menstrual cycle irregularity in women, depression, unhappiness and isolation from society."
What is the treatment for obesity?
Dietitian İrem Aksoy said, "According to the latest data, the incidence of obesity is increasing all over the world, especially in developed countries. For this reason, important research is being conducted on obesity treatment. Treatment approaches for obesity consist of nutrition therapy, physical activity support and behavioral therapy.
A negative energy balance is created in the nutritional treatment for obesity. By avoiding very low-calorie diets, weight loss can be supported with a balanced and adequate nutrition program by restricting 500-1000 calories over the amount of energy expended by individuals. Nutritionist support should be sought to ensure sustainability and to avoid health problems.
An important part of treatment is to increase exercise/physical activity. Weekly exercise planning can contribute to the targeted negative energy balance by increasing the energy expended. The other component is behavioral therapy. Behavioral therapy is thought to increase and support motivation towards the nutrition program and physical activity.
In the treatment of obesity, there are also medication and surgical approaches applied in addition to nutrition, exercise and behavior change treatments. However, your first treatment approach and goal should be to maintain a sustainable nutrition program with the support of exercise and behavior change."
