Obesity isn’t a black-and-white issue. There are many underlying causes of obesity, and many different ways to treat it. Some methods work for some and not for others .
Now, researchers know why.
A recent Yorkshire Health study took a group of 4,000 obese adults and placed them into six different groups.
- Healthy young women – Women who were obese, but overall had fewer obesity-related complications, such as type 2 diabetes
- Heavy drinker men – like the previous group, but with higher alcohol intake
- Disgruntled and anxious middle-aged people – mostly women with mental health and well-being issues
- Healthy, financially well-off seniors – generally in good health, but with defining characteristics of higher alcohol consumption and high blood pressure
- Physically ill but happy seniors – older people with chronic illnesses, such as osteoarthritis, but with good mental health
- Poorer health – people who were most economically depressed and had the highest number of chronic diseases
This research is important because understanding the underlying causes of obesity can help a person combat it. This is a major step forward in obesity treatment, although more research is needed.
Although the images shown above are not relevant to this study, understanding where each person’s weight is essential to losing weight.
There are two types of body fat distribution: android and gynoid .
“ An ‘android’ pattern of fat distribution is so named because more men than women exhibit it. You may have heard the description of an ‘apple’ body type when the waist circumference is greater than the hip circumference .”
and… “ A ‘gynoid’ distribution is more common in women. This is what many refer to as the ‘pear’ shape of the body. In this pattern, the hip circumference is greater than the waist circumference .”
1. Upper body obesity (android)
This usually means you’re eating too much and not exercising enough. Try cutting back on sweets and exercising for 30 minutes a day. If this doesn’t help, consult a health professional .
2. Stomach-centered obesity (android)
Excess weight in this area can be caused by stress, anxiety, or depression. Exercise and relaxation techniques may be the best way to address this problem. Again, it’s advisable to seek the help of a medical professional or therapist.
3. Lower body obesity (gynoid)
This is a common problem for most women. Exercises that incorporate lower-body resistance training, along with cardiovascular workouts, are essential for eliminating this problematic fat. This area can be difficult to target. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.
4. Obesity with stomach swelling (android)
Fat in this area can be caused by excessive alcohol consumption and/or breathing difficulties. Try reducing the amount of alcohol you consume and focus on breathing exercises. Proper breathing is a full-body exercise.
5. Lower body obesity, including the lower legs (gynoid)
This occurs most often in pregnant women. Your legs may be swollen. Try water aerobics to relieve pressure on your legs and feet, and sit with your feet elevated.
6. Large prominent stomach with upper back fat (android)
This is similar to type 1 in terms of its cause. Exercise is vital, but so is maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Don’t go too long without eating, and try to eat in small bites.
Knowing what’s needed for a particular fat problem is key to developing the best method for eliminating that fat. However, hormonal and genetic problems should be ruled out or considered if weight loss plans aren’t working. A healthcare professional will be able to help you.
