Obesity is a health problem caused by malnutrition and sedentary life, and its incidence is increasing. Istanbul Okan University Hospital Nutrition and Diet Specialist Dyt. İrem Aksoy pointed out that obesity affects individuals psychologically and socially.
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. Obesity or obesity, which is now mentioned as a global health problem, whose incidence is aimed to be reduced and researches are carried out on its treatment, was a symbol of power, health and wealth in ancient times. If it weren't for the health problems it brought with it, maybe it would still be in a state of high popularity today.
“Obesity also affects individuals psychologically and socially”
Stating that obesity is an important public health problem that can be seen at any age and its incidence is increasing, Dyt said. İrem Aksoy said, “This problem, which can be improved with dietary and lifestyle changes, also affects individuals psychologically and socially. Obesity is the condition most likely to be cured among other diseases. Therefore, a correct management of obesity is possible with a correct treatment approach.
What are the factors that cause obesity?
Pointing out that obesity is a health problem caused by malnutrition and sedentary life, Dyt. İrem Aksoy, “The most important factor causing obesity; is that the energy taken is greater than the amount of energy expended. Obesity occurs due to the imbalance of energy intake and energy expenditure. Although this is the most important factor, there are cases where it is not possible to avoid obesity even if the energy balance is achieved. For example; Insufficient physical activity, unbalanced intake of macronutrients, consumption of foods containing more fatty and simple carbohydrates than needed, consumption of processed foods, excessive consumption of fried and refined foods, psychological problems and drugs used can be listed among the factors that trigger obesity.
What are the problems that obesity can bring along?
dit. İrem Aksoy also mentioned the problems that obesity can bring with it, “Obesity has a more serious importance than other diseases due to the problems it brings. It can be the trigger of many diseases, especially cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal diseases, cancer and diabetes. In addition to these serious diseases, sleep apnea, respiratory problems, menstrual cycle irregularity in women, depression, unhappiness and isolation from society can also bring along problems.
dit. İrem Aksoy continued her statements as follows:
“According to the latest data, the prevalence of obesity is increasing all over the world, especially in developed countries. For this reason, important researches are carried out on the treatment of obesity. Treatment approaches for obesity; It consists of nutritional therapy, physical activity support and behavioral therapy.
In the nutritional treatment applied for obesity, a negative energy balance is created. Weight loss can be supported with a balanced and adequate nutrition program by avoiding very low-calorie diets and limiting the amount of energy consumed by individuals by 500-1000 calories. Nutritionist support should be obtained in order to ensure sustainability and avoid health problems.
An important part of treatment is increasing exercise/physical activity. By increasing the energy spent with weekly exercise planning, it can contribute to the targeted negative energy balance. The other component is behavioral therapy. It is thought that behavioral therapy increases and supports motivation towards nutrition program and physical activity.
In the treatment of obesity, there are also drug and surgical approaches applied in addition to nutrition, exercise and behavior change treatments. But the first treatment approach and your goal should be to continue a sustainable nutrition program with support for exercise and behavior change.”