Over-nutrition: Causes and Effects

Understanding Over-nutrition

Now that we have explored under-nutrition, let's delve into over-nutrition and its impacts.

Obesity

Obesity is defined as being overweight due to excessive fat accumulation. It is prevalent in developed countries where overconsumption of food increases the risk of several diseases, including type 1 & 2 diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and certain cancers.

Bulimia

Bulimia is an eating disorder characterized by binge eating followed by purging, commonly observed in women aged 15-35. It contributes to obesity and other health complications.

Fatty Liver

Fatty liver occurs when fat deposits build up in the liver, impairing its function. It is exacerbated by obesity and can lead to further complications with alcohol consumption.

Coronary Heart Disease (CHD)

Coronary heart disease is a leading cause of death in the UK, often resulting from diets high in fatty and salty foods and low in fruits and vegetables.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

High blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, exacerbated by excessive salt intake.

Identifying Obesity

There are several methods to determine if someone is obese:

• Body Mass Index (BMI): A calculation based on height and weight.
• Waist Measurements: Assessing abdominal fat.
• Height-Weight Tables: Comparing weight to a standard for height.
• Waist-Hip Ratios: Measuring the ratio of waist circumference to hip circumference.

On average, a physically active man needs around 2,500 calories per day, while a woman needs 2,000. Excess energy intake is stored as fat.

Fighting Obesity

To combat obesity, consider the following strategies:

• Control Appetite: Plan meals, reduce portion sizes, and consume fruits or water between meals to manage hunger.
• Increase Physical Activity: Incorporate cardio and strength training to improve fitness and muscle tone.
• Healthy Eating: Consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy beverages like water and milk.

Seeking medical advice and guidance is recommended for personalised dietary and lifestyle recommendations.