It’s a commonly held belief that obesity runs in the family. While it’s true that people with obesity genes are more likely to suffer from it, the genetic factors linked to obesity make up only a small part of the overall risk. Adding to that, some people who carry genes associated with obesity don’t actually become overweight. This is due to the fact that most obese people gain that weight through different lifestyle factors that can be changed through a slow process of personal motivation and a strong support network of family and friends. Here are two simple ways you can combat obesity.
Start by taking regular walks around your neighbourhood or better still, a park. Walking helps to keep your weight under control simply by walking 30 minutes a day, five days a week. According to the American Heart Association, a 150-pound person burns 240 calories per hour by walking. If this arrangement sounds daunting, you can break these sessions into shorter ones. For example, try walking for ten minutes at the start of your day before work, and another ten minutes during your lunch break. At the end of your day, walk for another ten minutes after dinner.
Another way to fight obesity is to learn to manage your stress levels. A review of 14 studies published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found a strong link between increased stress and unhealthy eating habits, along with higher body weight. Handling stress isn’t always easy, but you can take small steps to feel more relaxed, such as spending time with family and friends. Most importantly, you might be amazed at how much better you feel when you get a proper night’s sleep.
There are many ways to obtain the body you want and the trick is to find the perfect ones that suit your schedule and personality. While beating obesity is an uphill battle, it isn’t impossible. Thousands of people over the world have overcome this personal challenge and you can too. For more advice and guidance on how to do this, contact your nearest physician today to book an appointment and take a step closer to overcoming obesity.