Obesity is a global epidemic, with millions of people struggling with weight.
By 2035, it’s possible that more than half of the global population will be obese or overweight if current trends prevail.
Without the proper treatment and support, obesity will not improve.
This poses a danger to those living with it, as excessive body weight comes with many health issues that can be deadly if not addressed.
Addressing these issues, alongside a gluten-free diet, can be challenging.
Below are the health risks of obesity and how obesity can be treated for better health for those who are gluten-free
Obesity’s health risks
Obesity is defined as having an abnormal fat accumulation that can lead to health issues. A body mass index (BMI) over 30 is considered obese, which can result from consuming more calories than using them.
Various factors contribute to the prevalence of overweight and obesity, such as poor eating habits, lack of physical activity, low-quality sleep, and health conditions. Even socioeconomic factors like poverty and racial background make it difficult for marginalized people to access nutritious food and health education that can aid in weight loss.
Between being overweight vs obese, being obese puts you at a much higher risk of severe health issues.
These dangers are more likely to occur with increasing BMI and body fat. This extra fat makes it more challenging for your body to regulate blood sugar and raises inflammation, causing various health conditions.
These include heart disease, certain types of cancer, stroke, fatty liver disease, and more. Obesity also impacts health while pregnant. Combined with the expected hormonal changes, it can increase the risk of heart disease and poor pregnancy outcomes in women.
How obesity can be treated
If a health professional determines you to be obese, your health status is usually checked afterward. These include blood pressure, cholesterol, and obesity’s interference with daily life.
Assessing your health can help make your weight loss journey more personalized, but there are also tried and true methods that can lead to significant health changes.
Here’s how obesity can be treated:
Change in diet
Food is one of the most important aspects of weight loss, and changing what and how you eat can improve your obesity and overall health.
However, unlike those who eat freely, being gluten-free can make weight loss more challenging, but it is manageable.
A gluten-free weight loss program should primarily revolve around whole, unprocessed food – seek to incorporate a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and gluten-free grains into your diet.
This approach will not only help you lose weight but also ensure that you’re getting the essential nutrients your body needs.
You should always be mindful of gluten-free substitutes.
While there is a wide array of gluten-free substitutes available in the market, such as bread, pasta, and cookies, it’s essential to consume them in moderation as they can be high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Use them as an occasional treat rather than relying on them as the foundation of your diet.
If you’re unsure about how to incorporate a gluten-free diet into your weight loss program or if you have specific dietary concerns, it’s advisable to consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional – this is also recommended for anyone who feels they are obese.
They can provide personalized guidance, ensure you’re meeting your nutritional needs, and monitor your progress.
Increase physical activity
People struggling with obesity might struggle to start working out regularly, so it’s best to ease into exercising with low-intensity workouts, especially if you feel your diet may also be restrictive.
Walking can boost physical activity; it can help prevent weight gain and is linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
It was found that at least 8,200 steps a day provided the best outcomes, but that’s not easily achieved for people with obesity who are just getting started.
You can start small by walking for a few minutes per day and increase that number once your body gets used to the activity. Quickening your pace also helps boost your step count. You can do more exercises once you gain more endurance and strength.
Losing weight with medication
Even with diet and exercise, many people with obesity struggle to lose weight, and if you’re managing a gluten-free diet.
In this instance, medication may suit you better, or complement your efforts. You may even struggle due to genetics, health conditions, or other factors out of the person’s control that impedes the process.
Health professionals can prescribe medication to aid in weight loss coupled with a healthy lifestyle plan.
Drugs like orlistat and semaglutide can level the playing field to make weight loss easier. If enough weight is lost, you might be able to qualify for bariatric surgery. Medical assistance doesn’t guarantee permanent weight loss, but healthy habits can help you maintain your new weight.
