Obesity

Obesity is one of the most common medical problems and is a major risk factor for a number of pathological conditions. People who weigh more than 20% over the recommended weight for their height and gender, are more vulnerable to degenerative diseases such as e.g. cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers, diabetes mellitus, arthritis, and more. High blood pressure, strokes, immune system disorders, hemorrhoids, diaphragmatic hernia, varicose veins, kidney problems, infertility, gallstones, and liver diseases can all be linked to being overweight. Although obesity is usually attributed to excessive calorie intake and a sedentary lifestyle, there are usually other factors as well, such as genetic predisposition, micronutrient balance, metabolism, and hormones.