Obesity is defined as a condition in which the percentage of body fat is greater than 22% for males and 35% for females. It is of utmost importance to resolve this condition as obesity is associated with a wide range of increased health risks. For example, obesity increases the risk of cardiovascular disease more than seven times and is also a known risk factor for diabetes, cancer and arthritis.
The primary factors that promote the development of obesity are a diet high in carbohydrates and/or calories combined with a sedentary lifestyle. Other contributing factors may include insulin resistance, impaired liver metabolism, nutritional deficiency, hypothyroidism, food allergies, candidiasis, parasitic infection, low serotonin levels and psychological factors.
In most cases obesity is not simply related to overeating and often there are disturbances at the physiological level. Biochemical disorders such as insulin resistance, hypothyroidism, increased cortisol production, decreased sympathetic nervous system activity and impaired thermogenesis (conversion of energy into heat) all will dramatically affect metabolism and body composition.
A holistic approach to treatment is likely to provide optimal results. This will involve adjustments in the key areas of diet and exercise supported by detoxification therapy, nutritional supplements to correct biochemical imbalances as well as paying attention to psychological factors such as stress reduction and promotion of a positive mental attitude.
Exercise is an essential component of any weight loss program. It not only promotes fat loss but also improves insulin sensitivity and helps in the maintenance of muscle mass. The ideal time for exercise is before breakfast, the time when insulin levels are at their lowest, providing the optimal biochemical conditions for fat loss. If this is not possible then before the evening meal is the best choice.
The ideal exercise program will combine aerobic and muscle resistance exercises as this combination best promotes fat loss and muscle maintenance. However any exercise is beneficial and it may be best especially initially to choose whatever form of exercise is most appealing.
Water works in several ways to promote weight loss and general wellbeing. It suppresses the appetite, improves metabolism of stored fats, helps maintain muscle tone, improves kidney function, prevents constipation and assists with toxin removal.
A higher intake of water is necessary during a fat loss program to help clear the body of the waste by-products related to fat burning.
Acupuncture may be very useful in the initial stages of diet and lifestyle adjustment. Acupuncture has been shown to increase endorphins which may help to reduce appetite and ease discomfort associated with these changes.
Adequate rest and sleep must be attained while taking care to be aware of ones psychological and emotional wellbeing and if necessary seeking support in the areas of stress management and counseling.
Counseling may be very beneficial to help with improvement of stress coping mechanisms and to deal with issues related to body image, self esteem, compulsive eating and the discomfort that occurs in the initial stages of such a dramatic lifestyle overhaul.
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