The Definition of Morbid Obesity and You

The definition of morbid obesity can be stated in many different ways depending on who you ask.

Here at overcome-obesity-today.com, we will explain the two different definitions that the healthcare industry uses.

These two different definition of obesity uses come from the American Heritage Medical Dictionary and Mosby's Medical Dictionary.

The American Heritage Medical Dictionary gives this definition of morbid obesity: "the condition of weighing at least twice the ideal weight".

For example: A person stands 6'0" and weighs 180 pounds as an adult then they would be within their ideal body weight.

So, to be considered morbidly obese by the definition of morbid obesity the person would have to weigh at least 360 pounds or more.

The second definition comes from Mosby's Medical Dictionary and states: "an excess of body fat, or weight of 100 pounds over ideal body weight, that increases the risk of developing cardiac and endocrine disturbances, including coronary artery disease and diabetes mellitus, as well as some kind of cancers".

Using the above example; a person would have to weigh only 280 pounds or more to be considered morbidly obese.

No matter which definition of morbid obesity you use; one alarming fact remains!

The rate of increase in morbid obesity, especially with diabetes is increasing at a very alarming rate and this will bring about substantial public health implications.

In fact, we now know that 1 out of every 5 diabetics become morbidly obese.

According to a study conducted by Loyola University Health System, 62.4 percent of U.S. adults with Type 2 Diabetes is considered obese, while 20.7 percent is considered morbidly obese.

It gets worse for African Americans.

Among African American adults with Type 2 diabetes, 1 in 3 is morbidly obese according to this study.

Dr. Holly Kramer, associate professor in the Department of Medicine, the Division of Nephrology at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, who headed the study, stated: "The rate of morbid obesity among people with diabetes is increasing at a very alarming rate, and this has substantial public health implications.

Another definition of morbid obesity is having a body mass index or BMI greater than 40.

BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight.

For example: a 5'2" adult with a 40 BMI weighs 218 pounds; which places them 82 pounds overweight, while a 6'2" adult with a 40 BMI weighs 311 pounds or 117 pounds overweight.

If you want to check your BMI you can use our BMI calculator to see where you stand.

No matter which definition of morbid obesity you use, losing the excess weight is your only option.

So, what can you do to start losing weight right now?

• Incorporate a proven, complete nutritional program into your daily life.
• Enhance your nutritional program with a complete mutivitamin supplement because no nutritional program is perfect.
• Use a behavior modification and motivational program that will help you stay on track with your nutritional plan.
• Exercise at home with your own:
  Treadmill

  Stairstepper

  Exercise bike

  Elliptical trainer

  Hand weights or

  An aerobic video.

• See what kinds of weight loss aids your health insurance covers such as:
  Hypnotism

  Gym membership discounts

  Nutritional counseling.

Just remember, losing weight takes time and the right tools to accomplish the job.

It is a journey; not an overnight or even a 3 month fix.

The only way to start losing weight is to start!

So, while you're here.....Begin your journey of overcoming your weight issues right now.

Do it for your family, your children, and yourself.

Just use the steps above and start losing weight today.

Good luck on your journey. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me. I will be happy to guide you in the right direction.

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