Child Obesity and Its Health Complications

Obesity shortens lives. It decreases the quality of life. The reason? Obesity causes a number of health problems. Obesity is said to be one of the highest causes of death in the United States. Here are the ten Most Common Complications of Obesity.

#1 High Blood Pressure, aka hypertension. Obesity causes both inflammation and hormone changes. These two each cause elevated blood pressure. High blood pressure makes your heart work harder around the clock. This often results in heart attacks, stroke and heart failure.

#2 Diabetes. Obesity is the leading cause of diabetes. And diabetes kills. It can cause kidney disease. Diabetes causes blindness, high blood pressure and stroke. It can also cause heart disease, amputation and death.

#3 High Cholesterol. This in turn causes hardening of the arteries, heart attack, stroke and high blood pressure.

#4 Brain Disease. It’s theorized that obesity is a direct cause for neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

#5 Chronic illness. It reduces your immune system. Obese people are often battling infections and illness. In addition to colds and flu viruses, you may experience skin infections, bladder infections and chronic sinus infections.

#6 Cancer. Obesity is linked to increased cancer rates including, uterine, cervical, ovarian, breast, colon and prostate.

#7 Gynecological problems. Your fat cells are directly connected to your hormone levels. When you’re obese your chances of dealing with infertility, ovarian cysts and irregular periods is much higher.

#8 Sleep apnea. This sleeping condition reduces your oxygen intake. This affects your immune system. It also affects your energy levels, your mood, and your memory and ability to concentrate.

#9 Osteoarthritis. This painful disease is worsened by obesity to be sure. However, it can also be caused by obesity. The chronic wearing down of the joints by carrying excess weight causes osteoarthritis.

#10. Depression. Depression is caused by a number of obesity related factors. In addition to poor sleep which often causes depression, obesity can cause hormone changes that alter brain chemistry. Additionally, many people who struggle with obesity may have a low self image. This is particularly true in children who may be teased by their peers for their weight.

Obesity also causes fatty liver disease, Gallstones, heart attacks and strokes, insomnia and sleep disorders, and metabolic syndrome. If you’re struggling with obesity or if someone you love is struggling with obesity, it’s important to support them to take care of their health. This is particularly important for children who may be shortening their life expectancy by a decade or more.

Obesity kills. It reduces quality of life.

Obesity can be reversed. You don’t have to live with these health complications hanging over your head. Consult your physician and get on a program today to start living a healthier life.