Being Overweight - A Common Medical Condition

By now, virtually everyone is familiar with the alarming stats on obesity rates and the health outcomes associated with excess weight. Most everyone understands that we must eat healthy food and exercise and burn more calories than we consume. However, roughly 65% of Americans are overweight and about 35% are obese. The problem is particularly concerning with children and teens as roughly 1 in 3 are overweight.

Approximately 50 million Americans go on a diet each year — yet only 5 percent keep the weight they lose off. Many trying to lose weight continually struggle to find an effective weight loss method. Unfortunately, there is no “magic-bullet”. Simply telling people to eat less and exercise more is not the solution in and of itself. If it was that simple, the obesity epidemic would not still be climbing in the U.S.

There are many different factors that are involved with weight gain and weight loss which is why so many diets fail to achieve long term results. In many cases, there are underlying medical conditions (nutrient decencies, hormonal, medication side effects, thyroid, digestive issues, depression, aging –slow metabolism, etc.) that hinder or completely stop the weight loss process. Unless you address the contributing factors associated with weight gain, then only short term and unsustainable weight loss occurs. Pinpointing the problem and seeking help or medical treatment can often put you on the right path to permanent weight loss.

Regardless of underlying medical conditions, to ensure a healthy body and long-term weight-loss success, you must be completely committed to lifestyle changes to include regular exercise and a healthy diet.