How Your Weight Affects Your Health
Though you may not realize it, the connection between your weight and your overall health is quite complex. Being overweight can have both severe physical ramifications and serious psychological consequences.
Unfortunately, the United States has shown an increase in number of obese individuals over the past couple of decades. In 1985, less than 10% of all California adults were considered to be obese (with a body mass index, or BMI, above 30). Statistics have shown that by 2008, however, around 20-24% of all California adults fell into the obesity range.
Physically, obesity can have a large number of devastating effects on the body. Individuals who are considered to be either overweight or obese have an increased risk of developing any of the following dangerous conditions:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Liver disease
- Sleep apnea
- High blood pressure
- Cancer
The amount of increase in one’s risk depends on his or her particular situation. The more obese a person is, the higher his or her chances are of suffering from one of the above illnesses.
Psychologically, obesity can be damaging, as well. Research studies have revealed a tie between childhood obesity and depression, anxiety, and loneliness. They have also shown that obesity tends to have damaging mental effects on females, as well. Overweight girls are more likely to succumb to substance abuse, consider suicide, and to not attend college.
Contact Us
Having a good California health insurance plan that covers both physical and psychological care is extremely important for both you and your family. To learn more about the options available to you, contact Catherine Michaels Insurance Services today by calling 888-875-9888.