Metabolic obesity, or obesity related to metabolic syndrome, is characterized by excessive abdominal fat, unhealthy cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and insulin resistance (inability to properly manage insulin levels). According to the American Heart Association, more than 50 million Americans have or are at risk for metabolic obesity, which increases risk for serious conditions, such as heart disease. If you have or are at risk for metabolic obesity, seek guidance and treatment promptly.
Physical Activity
Physical activity can help increase your metabolism and burn excess calories and fat stores. Because weight loss is a primary goal of treatment for metabolic obesity, regular physical activity is key. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, adults ages 18 to 64 should aim for 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic physical activity per week. Because obesity poses challenges in regards to physical activity, Gradually increase your activity, beginning with short segments, such as 10 to 20 minutes of activity at a time, once or twice per day. Seek activities you enjoy and seek guidance from a fitness professional who can guide you toward proper form and intensity, which will ensure your safety and enhance your results.
A Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is a key element of successful treatment of metabolic obesity. According to the American Heart Association, another top priority for those with metabolic syndrome is to reduce their risk for type 2 diabetes and heart disease. A diet based upon fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and modest amounts of healthy fat can help reduce your risk for these conditions and support healthy weight management. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which help reduce your risk for infection and disease. They are also low in calories and high in dietary fiber, which supports digestive function and can help keep you satiated while you lose weight. Avoid red meat, butter, whole milk, deep-fried foods and refined carbohydrates, such as enriched breads and pasta, sugary cereals and desserts and commercially prepared snack foods for further enhanced results.
Congitive Behavioral Therapy
Many people who struggle with obesity also struggle with overeating behaviors and negative feelings pertaining to food, weight and body image. They may exhibit frequent bouts of emotional eating (eating for emotional reasons rather than physiological) or, in severe cases, struggle with binge eating disorder, a disorder characterized by bouts of binge episodes, in which exorbitant amounts of food are consumed and the person eating experiences a sense of lost control. According to an article written by eating disorder specialists, Michele D. Levine, PhD and Marsha D. Marcus, PhD, published in 2003, cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on helping these individuals develop normal eating habits and identifying and changing negative thoughts and beliefs pertaining to eating, body shape, and weight. In order for people with metabolic obesity to reap long-term weight management, the behaviors and emotions that contributed to their weight gain must be addressed. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a useful tool in ensuring that recovery and wellness endure.
References
- American Heart Association: Overview of Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Physical Fitness Recommendations and Fact Sheet
- Gurze Books: Psychosocial Treatment of Binge Eating Disorder: An Update, Michele D. Levine, PhD and Marsha D. Marcus, PhD, Jul/Aug 2003
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