Obesity eating disorder is characterized by severe disruptions in eating behaviors. The practice of an eating disorder can be viewed as a survival mechanism. In the case of obesity, some of the underlying issues that are associated with obesity eating disorder include:
- Low self esteem
- Depression
- Feelings of loss of control
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Identity concerns
- Communication problems
- An inability to cope with emotions
Obesity, the result of an obesity eating disorder, is a medical condition in which excess body fat has accumulated, in the body, to the extent that it may have an adverse effect on health, leading to reduced life expectancy. Obesity is a leading preventable cause of death worldwide, with increasing prevalence in adults and now also in children, and authorities view it as one of the most serious public health problems of the 21st century.
Additionally obesity is associated with many diseases, particularly:
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Breathing difficulties during sleep
- Certain types of cancer
- Osteoarthritis or sometimes referred to as degenerative arthritis
As a result, obesity has been found to reduce life expectancy and is most commonly caused by a combination of:
- Behavior
- Excessive dietary calories
- Lack of physical activity
- Environment
- Heredity factors
- Metabolism
- Culture
- Psychiatric illness
- Socioeconomic status
Of course calories count when it comes to weight maintenance. Weight management is a balance of the number of calories consumed with the number of calories your body uses or burns.
However, behavior and environment play a large role leading people to become overweight and obese. These are the greatest areas for prevention and treatment actions. For example, the decision to ride or drive instead of walk-due to the lack of sidewalks- is considered an environmental factor. Whereas watching too much television or working at the computer are sedentary behaviors. Changing behaviors and/or creating environments which make it easier to engage in physical activity may help prevent and decrease obesity. These are some ways to prevent obesity.