The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines overweight and obesity as “abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health”. It is a complex, progressive and chronic disease that affects males and females of all ages. Obesity is now recognised as a chronic disease.

Ireland has one of the highest levels of obesity in Europe, with an estimated 60% of adults being overweight or obese, and this trend is set to continue.

The most widely used method of checking if you are a healthy weight is body mass index (BMI).

It is a measurement to check if you are a healthy weight for your height. It is not an accurate measure of body fat in everyone, but it is a useful guide that is easy to calculate.

A Body Mass Index (BMI) of over 25 is considered overweight and over 30 is considered obese. Please view this image below for more information:

Find out using our BMI calculator HERE.

Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of developing many potentially serious medical conditions including:

1. Type 2 Diabetes
2. Hypertension (high blood pressure)
3. Heart disease
4. Stroke
5. Certain types of cancer*
6. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)
7. Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
8. Metabolic syndrome (combination of diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity)
9. Gallstones
10. Liver and kidney disease
11. Reduced fertility
12. Osteoarthritis

*Obesity has been linked to cancers such as womb, breast, bowel, oesophageal, pancreatic and myeloma. It is a significant modifiable risk factor, second only to smoking.

Being overweight or obese is associated with low mood and depression. It can also contribute to low self-esteem and cause relationship difficulties with family, partners, friends and others.

It is important to be aware that there is no quick fix.

For best results and long-term maintenance, a holistic approach is essential. This requires lifestyle modifications as well as commitment and organisation! And sometimes, more than one attempt.

If you are overweight the hormones that regulate your appetite change. It is very frustrating that if you then lose weight, these changes encourage weight gain! They slow down your metabolism and make you feel hungry making the entire process even harder.

It is essential to ensure a holistic approach to weight loss – there are many factors involved.

• A calorie-controlled diet and increased physical activity are central to all weight loss plans. 
• It is important to set realistic goals and good to involve friends and family.
• Psychological support from a trained healthcare professional can change your relationship with food and eating. 
• If additional support is needed, medications may be helpful as part of a weight loss plan:
  • Oral Weight Loss Treatment
  • Self-Injectable Weight Loss Treatment