The media is awash with sensationalist headlines
With talk of a nation of overeaters, the rise in overweight, underactive children and the obesity epidemic at large. We don’t need to look far to see shocking statistics about the strain that obesity-related illnesses are having on the NHS and how we must act now.
But how much of it is true – and whilst obesity awareness is important, we must consider that click-bait won’t help people get the guidance and support they need. We need to educate, not scaremonger – and carefully consider that whilst obesity awareness is right, fat-shaming is always wrong.
What is obesity?
When we talk about obesity, we are referring to a BMI of 40 above. The most common way to measure whether we are a healthy weight is by referring to the Body Mass Index [BMI] which assesses what weight we should ideally be based on our height.
- 18.5 to 24.9 is a healthy weight
- 25 to 29.9 is overweight
- 30 to 39.9 is obese
- 40 or above is morbidly obese
If you’re not sure where you fall within the range, you can use our easy BMI calculator to work out your score.
Why is obesity awareness so important?
We think it’s important to educate everyone about obesity to raise awareness of the numerous risks that obesity poses to your overall health. We also want to encourage practical ways to maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI) so more people can take action and make lifestyle changes that work for them.
Here at The Hospital Group, we believe that we should always raise awareness of obesity in a positive, proactive way which works towards reducing stigma, bullying and discrimination surrounding weight.
How can obesity be damaging to your long-term health?
Whilst many obese people are living with conditions such as diabetes because of having a high BMI, not everyone is aware of how their long-term health is being compromised. Obesity can put you at a significantly higher risk for the following illnesses:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Coronary heart disease
- Strokes
- Certain types of cancers including breast and bowel
- High blood pressure
- Osteoarthritis
- Kidney disease
- Fatty liver disease
- Fertility issues and difficulty getting pregnant
How can weight loss surgery help with obesity?
Along with all the benefits that our patients tell us about improvements to their appearance, confidence and self-esteem. Above all, your number one weight loss motivation should be how beneficial weight loss surgery can be for your health by lowering your risk factors for many weight-related issues including type 2 diabetes.
Weight loss surgery with us, whether that’s in the form of a gastric band, bypass or sleeve, includes many resources at your disposal, such as specialist advice from our expert dietitians and nursing team as well as regular contact with your weight loss support team. It is this lifestyle aspect of weight loss surgery which can really benefit your long-term health by both lowering your blood sugar levels and improving your blood pressure and cholesterol.
Start your journey towards a happier, healthier you today…
We know that weight loss isn’t easy, especially on your own. When you’ve tried following a balanced diet and exercising and it’s just not enough, weight loss surgery could be the start of that new lease of a life you’ve been longing for.
Together we can achieve your goals of a healthy BMI, take the first step by getting in touch to see if weight loss surgery could be an option for you.