Contrary to popular opinion, obesity comes in many different shapes, not just "round" or "squishy". Regardless of the shape it comes in, obesity is a huge and growing problem (no pun intended). The health risks associated with obesity include Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, cancer, stroke, and often a host of joint and back issues. It's worth putting up a fight where obesity is involved.
There are six different types of obesity that can be identified by where the body carries fat.
Where you carry your fat can help you identify what lifestyle changes you need to reverse it.
1. Obesity of Food:
Especially prevalent in the West, obesity of food comes from eating too much, and diets high in sugar. Smaller portions, a reduction in sugar, and regular exercise can keep obesity of food at bay.
2. Obesity of Nervous Stomach:
Depression, stress, and anxiety can lead to obesity as well. Those suffering from obesity of a nervous stomach often self-medicate with sugary treats, so reducing the intake of sweets and addressing the source of the stress or depression will help.
3. Gluten Obesity:
Occurring most often in adolescent or menopausal women—those undergoing large hormonal changes—gluten obesity is best countered by avoiding smoking, drinking, and sitting for long periods, and exercising with weights.
4. Atherogenic Metabolic Obesity:
With the classic "cannonball gut", these people tend to carry the majority of their fat around their middles, which often causes trouble with breathing. Alcohol consumption must be reduced to deal with this type of obesity.
5. Obesity due to venous circulation:
This type of obesity tends to be inherited and usually occurs in people with swollen legs or pregnant women. Running or climbing stairs helps with venous circulation obesity.
6. Obesity of Inactivity:
Obesity of inactivity hits the parts of the body that used to be active, like when you stop working out. Eating meals at regular intervals can help combat obesity of inactivity by speeding up the metabolism.
The underlying message seems to be that staying active and reducing portions and intake of sugar, alcohol, and tobacco are the best ways to stay healthy and fight obesity.
