Look at where you're gaining weight, and we'll tell you how to fix it.
Obesity is not an obvious problem. There are many causes and treatments. Some work for some, but not for others.
Now scientists know why.
A recent study published in the Journal of Public Health examined a group of 4,000 obese adults and divided them into six different groups.
#Number 1: Healthy young women – these are women who were overweight, but generally had very few obesity-related complications such as type 2 diabetes.
#Number 2: Heavy drinkers – as above, but with higher alcohol consumption.
#Number 3: People in their fifties, sad and anxious – mostly women with mental health problems and dissatisfaction
#Number 4: Older, wealthy, healthy people – generally good health characteristics, but high alcohol consumption and high blood pressure.
#Number 5: Older people, physically ill, but happy – older people with multiple chronic diseases, such as osteoarthritis, but good mental health
#Number 6: People with poorer health – those who are most economically disadvantaged and have the most chronic diseases.
This research is important because understanding the underlying causes of obesity can help those affected combat it. This is a significant step forward in the treatment of obesity, but further research is needed.
