Today is National Women’s Health and Fitness Day
The Centers for Disease Control recently released its biennial obesity report, which revealed that 41 percent of American women are now obese and the rate is steadily increasing. Obesity is second only to smoking as a cause of premature death in women, but it is a modifiable risk factor. September 25 is National Women’s Health and Fitness Day, so there is no better time than now to assess your health and fitness goals.
Weight Gain-What Factors Play a Part.
Extra weight can lead to many of the diseases that primarily affect women, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. There is not one specific reason why women tend to gain more weight than men as they age, though there are many factors that all play a part. Women have always had more body fat than men.
Carrying and giving birth to a baby affect a women’s weight, and gender imbalance is a big issue. There are more women in the workforce than ever (over 70 percent), and yet women are still the primary caregivers in the household. Women end up doing 50 percent or more of the housework and childcare in addition to working outside the home. Because of this, the stress of work and home life can lead to increased cortisol levels, which can lead to weight gain, especially around the midsection where it is the most dangerous to have extra weight.
Another huge part of why women tend to have more weight on them is due to hormones. The biology of a woman’s body has evolved to store body fat, plain and simple. Therefore, women’s hormones resist weight loss in a way that men’s bodies don’t.
Lastly, sleep deprivation plays a huge role in extra weight. Research shows that women may need up to nine hours each night and most women are not getting the required sleep. Poor sleep affects the production of essential hormones that increase appetite.
What is Non- Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)?
Non- Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which fat accumulates in the liver in people who drink little or no alcohol. There are over 3 million cases occurring per year in the U.S. for women and men. NAFLD is common in women and can lead to extra weight. Diagnosis requires a lab test and imaging. While there is no known cure, treatments are available. NAFLD can last several years or be lifelong. Development of fatty liver can take decades, and because of that many people hardly notice any symptoms, which include discomfort in the stomach, general fatigue and unexplained feeling of sickness. Obesity is responsible for about 85 percent of fatty liver disease, which explains why the disease continues to be diagnosed both in adults and children. Luckily NAFLD is modifiable. Diet and lifestyle changes are the two most effective remedies.
Be the Best Possible You.
Many people feel ashamed when discussing their weight or health issues. Doctors and nurses with whom you feel comfortable can be a powerful resource to partner with for your health and future. At Greater Boston GI, we have exceptional certified nutritionists on staff to help improve your health and overall well-being as well as a successful program called The Ideal Protein Weight Loss Method that many patients have been and continue to be successful with.
Now is the time to take control of your health by making smart nutrition choices and making time for regular physical activity. Now is the time to be the best possible you.
Read What Our Patients Are Saying About The Ideal Protein Weight Loss Method