While nutritional disorders affect a considerably large portion of the population, these instances tend to be much more prevalent in obese individuals. Not only can nutritional diseases impact quality of life, but they may sometimes lead to quite serious consequences. This is the reason why the obesity epidemic has become such a profound concern in recent times.
What is the link between obesity and nutrition? What is the most common disorder and are there any other problems worth noting? If you are worried about your weight or you are curious to learn about the relationship between nutrients and obesity, make it a point to read the information found below.
Why is Obesity One of the Main Causes of Nutritional Deficiency?
It is crucial to remember that calories alone do not lead to a healthy lifestyle. Many individuals who are overweight consume far more calories than their bodies require to function at nominal levels. Furthermore, the bulk of these calories is often derived from poor food sources (such as candy, fast food and sugary beverages). These “empty” calories will naturally cause weight gain while simultaneously robbing the body of powerful vitamins and minerals.
The Most Common Nutritional Disorder in Obese Individuals
Studies have shown that low levels of vitamin D is by far one of the most common nutritional disorders that has been directly linked to obesity. Interestingly enough, the exact underlying mechanism is still not fully understood. One theory involves the fact that vitamin D (and countless other nutrients) will become diluted within body fat. Therefore, the organs are incapable of obtaining the concentrations that they need.
Another common deficiency is associated with vitamin C. Unlike vitamin D, vitamin C is soluble in water. As obese individuals often hold more water weight in terms of volume, they will need to consume more vitamin C when compared to those with an average body mass index (BMI).
Additional Problems Resulting from Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies can be rather insidious in their nature. This is because the associated symptoms will not normally begin to manifest themselves until a significant amount of damage has already been done. While some issues are rather superficial in nature (such as a lack of energy) others are classified as chronic and even serious. Five of the most well-known examples include:
- High LDL (bad) cholesterol).
- Low HDL (good) cholesterol.
- Hypertension (high blood pressure).
- Type 2 diabetes.
- Coronary heart disease.
We can now see that adopting a preventative mindset is one of the most effective ways to counteract these decidedly frightening situations. What steps can be taken?
Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Although this is common sense, it can still be very difficult to change habits that might have developed over years or even decades. However, the first step should nonetheless involve evaluating your present diet and calculating the nutrients contained within the foods that you consume on a regular basis.
If you are not a fan of fruits or vegetables, the chances are high that you might already be deficient in one more more vitamins (such as vitamin D, vitamin C or B-complex vitamins). This is the very same reason why including healthy portions of fruits and vegetables is one powerful way to make a positive change.
Also, make it a point to appreciate the symptoms of vitamin deficiencies. Some signs that a problem may be present include:
- Chronic inflammation.
Lethargy. - A weakened immune system.
- A loss of appetite.
- Changes in mood (such as anxiety or depression).
It is likewise prudent to consult with a trained nutritionist. The reason behind this suggestion involves the fact that many deficiencies will often exhibit similar symptoms. Additional research (such as bloodwork) may therefore be required in order to accurately diagnose the root of the problem.
A Reversible Scenario
The good news is that even those who may already be suffering from one or more vitamin deficiencies can still enact positive changes before any real damage occurs. Not only does this include embracing a healthy diet, but it may also involve the use of cutting-edge technology such as the Spatz3 gastric balloon in order to lower cravings for unhealthy foods and to reduce your overall caloric intake.
As nutritional disorders and obesity share a hand-in-hand relationship, you can tackle both with the right advice and a positive mindset.
