Following global trends in obesity and learning how it can impact one’s health

Many adults deal their entire life with an unhealthy diet and a process of weight gain and weight loss. Fad dieting has created the “yo-yo dieting” effect, causing both men and women to bounce around their ideal weight often within their lifetime. This can be caused by an unhealthy diet and short-term weight loss that does not nurture a healthy lifestyle long-term.

Dr. Alexander Shapsis of Atlantic Gastroenterology, Brooklyn, New York, is a Board-Certified gastroenterologist who knows firsthand the effect obesity and weight gain can have on one’s health.

The negative effects of obesity 

Dr. Alexander Shapsis and his team at Atlantic Gastroenterology find that there are many health consequences of obesity. These include:

• Increased blood pressure. Long-term obesity can cause an increased risk of high blood pressure, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases
• Diabetes. Obesity is one of the primary risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes
• Joint pain. Overweight patients are more likely to suffer from joint pain and other musculoskeletal problems due to their extra weight
• Cancer risk. According to the American Cancer Society, being overweight or obese increases the risk of several types of cancer, such as breast, colorectal, esophageal, and endometrial cancers
• Mental health. Obesity may lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns
• Sleep apnea. Individuals who are over their ideal weight are more likely to suffer from OSA, or obstructive sleep apnea, which is a sleeping disorder that results in breathing stops throughout the night, causing memory loss, heart problems, and daytime fatigue

Dr. Alexander Shapsis believes that the key to fighting obesity is prevention through lasting healthy diets and lifestyle changes. He recommends that adults limit their intake of processed foods and sugar while increasing their intake of fresh fruits and vegetables to maintain a healthy weight. Regular exercise can also help with weight management by burning calories and strengthening muscles.

Learn more about the health consequences of obesity and how to reduce your risk of obesity!

Call 718 521-2840 to request an appointment at either of our offices in Brooklyn, NY, including our Court Street and Ocean Parkway locations.