Obesity is a condition in which an individual has excess body fat. It can be defined based on the BMI (Body Mass Index) score, according to which a person with a score of 30 or more is considered to be obese. The hip to waist ratio is also a factor that determines whether a person is obese or not. This condition can increase the risk of many low-risk to severe health complications such as heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes. In this article, we’ll talk about the 6 low-risk conditions associated with obesity. We will also look at some crucial diet tips that can help prevent it.
There are many diseases caused by obesity that could result in severe health issues, low quality of life and may even lead to mortality. There are high-risk conditions such as heart problems, stroke, hypertension and diabetes. There are also many low-risk conditions related to being overweight.
# OsteoarthritisThis is one of the most common medical conditions associated with obesity. The more you weigh, the higher would be the pressure on your knee joints.
And if you already suffer from the condition, excess weight can worsen the pain. Even losing a few pounds could bring a lot of relief to patients.
Foods to eat:Oily fish
Ginger and turmeric
Vegetables and fruits
Omega-3 fatty acids
Foods to avoid:Sugar
Reduce salt intake
Fried foods
# Kidney DiseasesBeing obese can significantly increase the risks of kidney diseases. Obesity can cause diabetes and high blood pressure, and these conditions can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, causing kidney diseases.
The more weight you pile on, the more your kidneys have to work in order to filter the waste.
Foods to avoid:Excess potassium, sodium, phosphorus-rich foods
Packed, instant, and pre-made meals
Red and processed meat
Canned foods
Whole wheat bread
Dairy products
Foods to eat:Rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B
Folates like olive oil, cauliflower, garlic, and egg whites
Virgin and extra-virgin olive oil
# DepressionDepression and anxiety are linked to overeating, an unhealthy diet and a sedentary lifestyle. This may lead to obesity. Medications to treat the condition may also cause weight gain. People diagnosed with depression are more likely to be obese than those who haven’t. Being obese could also lead to anxiety, stress and depression.
# GallstonesPeople who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop gallstones.This occurs because individuals who are overweight tend to have high cholesterol in their bile, which can cause gallstones.
Foods to avoid:Fatty meats
Proteins
Oil packed fish
High-fat dairy
Avocado
Butter
Sugary desserts
Foods to eat:Lethicin
Fibre
Rich in vitamin C
Artichoke
Apple
Radish
# OsteoporosisObesity leads to osteoporosis, which is a condition that weakens the bones, making them prone to fractures. While it was earlier believed that osteoporosis may protect the bones, recent studies have shown that overweight people may carry fat inside their bones. This makes them more susceptible to fractures.
Foods to avoid:Alcohol
Foods to eat:Dairy products
Low fat and nonfat milk
Cheese
Yoghurt
Fish
Canned sardines and salmon
Fatty variety fishes like tuna, mackerel
Fruits and vegetables
Green beans, peas, spinach, tomato, dark green vegetables
# GoutA gout is a form of arthritis that can affect your joints, especially your toes. This can lead to inflammation and be intensely painful. It is caused due to the accumulation of sharp urate acid crystals in your joints.
Usually, uric acid is eliminated through the kidneys. But when you are overweight, the body produces more uric acid, and the kidneys are under more pressure, thus resulting in an excess build-up of uric acid.
Foods to avoid: (Avoid high fructose foods)Meat
Fish
Other sugary products
Other seafoods
Yeast
Foods to eat: (Low purine foods)Fruits and vegetables
Whole grains
Low-fat dairy products
Eggs
Beverages
High-vitamin C foods
# Tooth and Mouth ConditionsPeople with obesity tend to consume food rich in fat, sugar, carbohydrates and calories. These foods can damage the tooth enamel, cause gum diseases and bad breath.
Foods to avoid:Sugary Candies
Bread
Alcohol
Carbonated drinks
Fried chips
Foods to eat:Milk
Yoghurt
Cheese
Celery
Sugar-free gum candies
Some herbs
# Rheumatoid ArthritisOne of the side effects of being overweight, obesity can worsen the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Most people who have rheumatoid arthritis are overweight or obese. The more the weight increases, the more difficult it is to manage the condition, and the less effective medicines are.
Foods to avoid:Red meat, refined grains, dairy products, saturated fats worsen Inflammation
Omega-6 fatty acids
Gluten
MSG (monosodium glutamate)
Alcohol
More salt consumption
Foods to eat:Fish oils and plant oils, e.g., olive and coconut oil, reduce arthritis
Leafy vegetables, aloe vera, ginger and turmeric have anti-inflammatory agents
Whole-grain cereal