Wendel Abel

The World Health Organisation recognises that obesity is a major problem worldwide. It states that this "escalating global epidemic is one of today's most blatantly visible and yet most neglected public health problem."

In the U.S.A. it is estimated that 30 per cent of adults are obese. Of course, it is also a problem here in Jamaica. The truth is that many Jamaicans are overweight! What is even more frightening is the fact that it is a major problem even among children.

Factors leading to obesity

Many factors lead to obesity. These include genetic problems as it has clearly been shown that obesity runs in families. There are also metabolic factors which influence how we use food and store fat which varies from one person to another. Cultural factors play a role as we celebrate events such as weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and even funerals by preparing and eating a lot of food.

Lack of physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle are major factors contributing to obesity. Certain prescription drugs such as steroids, drugs for treating mental disorders and epilepsy are known to cause weight gain.

Addicted to food

Many persons are overweight because they overeat and become addicted to food. The fact is 'addiction to food begins and ends with pain'. Anxiety or depression due to life stresses and deep seated psychological problems lead to overeating. Overeating may also be associated with problems going back to our childhood such as being over fed as children or experiencing hunger and deprivation. Many persons attribute their overeating to living with parents who manipulated them with food.

Whatever is your experience try to get to the heart of this and get therapy if necessary.

Obesity causes pain

Many persons who are overweight have poor self-esteem and are at increased risk for anxiety and depression. In addition, a lack of self-esteem apart from affecting how we feel about ourselves, may also affect how we carry ourselves, how we dress, how we relate to others and impacts on our sense of attractiveness.

Programmes for dealing with obesity and food addiction

1 - Active lifestyle. This is the most important thing in losing weight. Take up a hobby that will increase your level of activity. Gardening is great and it is very gratifying. Use the stairs at work and use the elevator less.

2 - Avoid negative self-talk such as "I hate myself. I am going to get rid of this fat."

3 - Create an image of yourself as being slimmer and work toward that.

4 - A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step. That first step towards losing weight starts with the first step. Start with moderate exercise during the first week. Start with 10 minutes three times per week for the first week. After you have settled into a routine, you should exercise for at least one - Stick with a programme you enjoy. Be consistent. Your exercise programme does not have be painful. Do not subscribe to the notion of no pain, no gain.

6 - Set realistic goals. Set your goals for yourself and embark on a programme that will work for you. When you succeed at achieving your goals reward yourself. Avoid using food as a reward.

7 - Become involved in a specialised programme in order to lose weight.

The most effective programmes are multidisciplinary involving psychologists, nutritionists and exercise specialists. These programmes emphasise behaviour modification and incorporate the principles stated above.

Obesity and the risks

High blood pressure

Type 2 Diabetes

Heart Diseases

Stroke

Gall bladder problems

Osteoarthritis

Sleep apnea

Cancers (uterus, breast, colon)

Psychological problems (poor self-esteem, depression).

For more information on these programmes, call 922-3216.

Dr. Wendel Abel is a consultant psychiatrist and senior lecturer, University of the West Indies; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.