Learn More:
Radio Segment
Steve Muething, MD, associate director of clinical services in the Division of General and Community Pediatrics, can now be heard weekly
"The Health Show," distributed by WAMC/Northeast Public Radio. On October 30, 2003, he spoke about
Your Child's BMI. Listen to this segment:
What is obesity?
Obesity is defined as too much body fat. People are considered obese if their weight for their height is more than what is expected. The normal values are based on the general population. Obesity is often the result of eating more than the body needs and not exercising to get rid of those extra calories eaten. In some cases, there may be a problem with the body’s ability to break down the fat in the foods eaten and that problem can cause obesity. Your health care provider can help determine which cause applies to you.
How is obesity diagnosed?
The term used to find out if you are obese is Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is calculated by
Weight in Pounds_________ answer x 703
(Height in inches) x (Height in inches)
The number will fit into one of the following groups:
- Underweight = <18.5
- Normal weight = 18.5-24.9
- Overweight = 25-29.9
- Obesity = BMI of 30 or greater
Changes should begin if BMI is 25 or greater in order to successfully reach and maintain a healthy weight.
What are the risks of obesity?
When people weigh too much, the body has to work differently, and often harder, to do many normal actions. This change in the body can lead to many health problems. The most common risks include:
- High Blood Pressure
- Weaker bones and joints
- High Cholesterol
- Type 2 diabetes
- Coronary heart disease
- Stroke
- Gallbladder disease
- Sleep problems
- Breathing problems
- Some cancers
- Depression or social isolation
These risks should be screened for by your healthcare provider. Treatment of these health problems may improve weight loss.
Obesity treatment:
Working with your healthcare provider is the safest way to determine what method of weight loss will be the best for you. It is not suggested that people take pills or restrict foods to lose weight. Some “fad diets” can cause other health problems. There is no such thing as a quick fix and caution should be taken if something is advertised as such. Healthy weight loss is around two to three pounds per week. The body has to adjust to the change in weight and if it occurs too quickly, other problems can result. In most cases improving food choices and performing some daily exercise can be a good start. Some helpful suggestions include:
- Eating a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables with most meals or snacks
- Limiting or eliminating sweetened beverages
- Choosing lean meats
- Baking or grilling instead of frying food
- Drinking eight ounces of water daily
- Eating low-fat dairy products with most meals or snacks
- Choosing whole grains whenever possible
In some families it may be helpful to include a nutritionist, psychologist, and an exercise specialist in treatment plans. Treatment goals should be reachable, aimed at healthy weight loss, improved eating habits, and a healthy exercise-oriented lifestyle.
Prevention of obesity:
The best way to stay at a healthy weight and decrease risks of obesity complications is to not become obese. Making good food choices for you and your family and providing access to exercise through organized activities or community facilities helps to promote healthy behaviors. Always include your healthcare provider in changes regarding your health.
Suggested Resource:
www.mypyramid.gov
Rev. 11/08
