Obesity – Causes, Consequences and Treatment Options
Obesity, also known as adiposity, is a chronic disease characterized by an excessively high body weight due to an excessive accumulation of fat. Given its constant increase, nowadays it is considered one of the biggest health challenges worldwide, also in Spain. German Clinic Marbella offers a complete range of diagnostics and treatments to combat obesity.
What is obesity?
The medical definition of obesity is based on the so-called body mass index (BMI), which describes the ratio of body weight to height:
- BMI of 25 – 29,9: Overweight
- BMI of 30 – 34.9: Obesity grade 1
- BMI of 35 – 39.9: Obesity grade 2
- BMI over 40: Obesity grade 3 (severe obesity).
How does obesity develop?
Obesity develops over the long term as a result of an imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure. When more calories are regularly consumed than are burned, the body stores excess energy in the form of fat tissue – body weight increases. Lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating habits and a slow metabolism contribute significantly to its development.
Risk factors for obesity
Numerous factors can favor the development of obesity:
- Unbalanced and caloric diet, rich in sugars and fats
- Low physical activity and predominantly sedentary lifestyle
- Genetic predisposition
- Hormonal disorders, e.g., hypothyroidism
- Psychological stress, anxiety and emotional eating habits
- Socio-economic factors such as limited access to healthy foods
Symptoms of obesity
Obesity can manifest itself with various physical discomforts:
- Significant increase in body weight
- Reduced physical endurance and performance capacity
- Shortness of breath on exertion
- Joint pain, especially in the hips, knees and back
- Excessive sweating
Consequences and associated diseases
Untreated obesity can lead to serious health consequences:
- Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, arteriosclerosis or heart attack
- Development of type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Degenerative joint diseases such as osteoarthritis
- Increased incidence of certain types of cancer
- Hormonal and metabolic disorders
- Psychological disorders such as depression and reduced quality of life.
Obesity treatment
Effective treatment of obesity requires a structured and individualized therapeutic approach. At German Clinic Marbella we combine different medical methods:
- Dietary change: development of a balanced, reduced-calorie nutritional plan
- Physical activity: implementation of professionally supervised exercise programs
- Behavioral therapy: support in the modification of eating habits and life style
- Pharmacological therapy: use of drugs for weight reduction in cases of severe obesity.
- Bariatric interventions: in selected cases, gastric surgery (e.g. gastric bypass) may be considered.
Prevention: How to actively prevent obesity
Specific measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing obesity:
- Complete and balanced diet with fresh products
- Regular physical exercise – at least 150 minutes per week of moderate activity
- Recognition and control of emotional eating
- Regular weight checks for early detection of trends
Dietary recommendations in case of obesity
Healthy eating plays a key role in weight control. It is recommended:
- Avoiding ultra-processed foods and added sugars
- Foods rich in fiber for an active metabolism
- Moderate calorie intake with portions adapted to needs
- Several small meals spread throughout the day
Conclusion
Obesity is a serious disease that considerably increases the risk of suffering multiple pathologies. However, through early diagnosis, medical support and a targeted change of lifestyle, it is possible to achieve a significant improvement. At German Clinic Marbella we support you with an interdisciplinary team of specialists, nutritionists and physical exercise therapists.
We accompany you on your path to better health and quality of life – with confidence, personalized attention and professional medical support.
