7 Health Risks Associated with Obesity and Ways You Can Start Helping Now
Would it shock you if I said that 2 in 3 Americans are overweight or obese? With so many fast food options coupled with sedentary behaviors encouraged by tasks made easy due to technological advancements, it’s no wonder so many have packed on the pounds and are struggling to lose it. What’s interesting is that so many think it’s an issue, but aren’t motivated to change unless there’s a serious health concern.
It’s up to us as professionals in the health industry to encourage healthier eating and exercise habits, but there’s only so much we can do when it comes to issues like obesity and all the problems that come with it. While our hands may be tied, we must continue to speak up and speak out to help others understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle that includes eating healthy, proper exercise, and more.
Here’s a quick rundown of all the health risks associated with being obese as stated by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK):
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
- Osteoarthritis (pain, swelling, and stiffness in one or more joints)
- Cancers like breast, colon, endometrial (related to the uterine lining), and kidney
This is why it’s so important to speak up about living a healthy lifestyle, to change negative eating habits, and to incorporate exercise into a daily routine. It may seem difficult, but it’s possible with the right effort and timing. Here are a few ways you can begin making an impact:
Local/community engagements
Whether you’re speaking at a conference, visiting schools, sitting on a health or fitness panel, or taking part of a health fair, you’re more than likely to get your message out there. It’s important that you’re known locally, people will seek your services and organizations will want to have you on their call list for later engagements. Reach out and seek opportunities to be present.
Webinars and online engagements
Digital is the way to go these days, so why not take advantage? Start a group, personal page, or photo album on your favorite social media platform to help promote awareness and solutions for the issue. It also helps advertise who you are and what you’re about.
Interviews
Don’t be afraid to do interviews with reputable local or online organizations. Not only will it boost your message, but it will add credibility to who you are and what you offer.
Articles & written content
Enjoy writing? Get out there and start doing it more often. Write articles, blogs, and more on the subject. Raise awareness through written means and put it out there so everyone can read it.
The most important take away here is that you be heard on the issue. You must be loud and clear and be confident in leading the charge toward better health. As a steward of health and fitness, you hold the key to changing lives and in working with clients who are obese, overweight, or who are concerned for their overall health, you’re doing your part.
To aid in your new quest to helping others improve their health, drop the pounds, and improve their eating habits, I want to offer an opportunity. Our friends at the Educational Fitness Solutions have created the Functional Nutrition program to educate personal trainers and other fitness & health professionals on eating better and making sounder nutritional decisions. Whether it’s eating super or organic foods, the program also includes how to shop for the right foods and on eating healthier organic sources.
Check out the program here >> |
