What Can I Do if I’m Genetically Inclined to Be Obese?

Obesity is a worldwide problem, often causing high healthcare costs and chronic medical issues especially if you have kidney issues as well. Many people are genetically predisposed to obesity, leading to additional challenges when maintaining a healthy weight. 

However, just because your genetics point towards a life of excess weight doesn't mean you have to be obese. There are several lifestyle changes you can make to avoid obesity and cut your risk of severe health problems.

Your health is our number one goal at Metro Renal Associates in Washington, DC, and Capitol Heights, Maryland. Our three expert nephrologists take your overall wellness and kidney health seriously, giving you the tools you need to keep your weight under control and prevent dangerous medical conditions from occurring.

What is obesity?

Obesity is a severe medical issue created by excess fat accumulation in the body that poses a risk for serious health issues. In 2017, more than four million people worldwide died from complications of obesity.

Medical professionals define obesity in relation to a person's body mass index (BMI). A BMI of over 30 indicates obesity, which increases a person's risk of complicated health issues, including:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• High cholesterol
• Sleep apnea
• High blood pressure
• Kidney disease

Increased fat accumulation around your midsection, along with a genetic predisposition to obesity, significantly improves the odds of severe health complications.

Risk factors for obesity

Genetics is only one aspect of obesity. Other factors also play a role in excess weight, including the following:

• Poor sleep patterns
• Eating too much
• Lack of exercise
• Sedentary lifestyle
• High levels of stress
• Certain medical conditions
• Some medications

Paired with genetics, these risk factors make you much more likely to suffer from obesity if you're not careful. However, you don't have to sit back and watch the weight pile on — there are ways to stay healthy.

Are you doomed to be obese?

You're indeed at an increased risk for obesity if you're genetically predisposed — but that doesn't mean it has to be your life.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 15 genes play a role in obesity. While your risk for obesity rises with these genes in your body, you're not automatically on the path to obesity.

The trick to a healthy life is minor changes to decrease caloric intake and promote daily physical activity to lower your risk of health problems.

Taking control of your weight

If you're concerned about your genetic risk of obesity, there are a few steps you can take. Our team evaluates your overall health and wellness and provides you with the following tips to tip the scales in your favor:

Eat a healthy diet

Your diet is a huge factor when it comes to fighting obesity. Ensure you fit plenty of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins into your diet.

Avoid overly processed foods because they don't have much nutritional value and pack a lot of calories.

Cut back on sugar

Sugar is one of the biggest culprits of obesity. Sodas, desserts, and other processed foods contain large amounts of sugar, which quickly pack on the pounds.

Simply cutting out soda and cutting back on sweets can help you fight off diabetes and other obesity-related health conditions.

Get moving

Exercise is a great way to burn calories, stay in shape, and fight off dangerous health problems. You don't need to run a marathon; simply walking daily or exercising during commercials can reduce your risk of weight gain.

Watch your calorie intake

Reducing daily calories is one of the most straightforward steps to lose weight and fight obesity. A calorie-tracking app can help you eat fewer calories than you burn during the day and lose sustainable amounts of weight over several weeks to months.

Call one of our offices today to discuss your options for losing weight and fighting obesity, or message the team using our convenient online tool.