What do the labels overweight and obesity mean

Who is more likely to have obesity? Why do people gain weight? Who should lose weight? What are overweight and obesity? More than 1 in 3 U. According to a national U. Men are more likely than women to be overweight. Researchers reviewed study evidence for over 28, children and 15, adults in the United Kingdom from to They concluded that sleep deprivation significantly increased the risk of obesity in both adults and children.

The changes affected children as young as 5 years old. The team suggested that sleep deprivation may lead to obesity because it can lead to hormonal changes that increase appetite. When a person does not sleep enough, their body produces ghrelin , which is a hormone that stimulates appetite. At the same time, a lack of sleep also results in a lower production of leptin, which is a hormone that suppresses appetite.

One study provided clues as to how liquid fructose, which is a type of sugar, in beverages may alter lipid and glucose metabolism and lead to fatty liver and metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome includes type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure. People with obesity are more likely to have metabolic syndrome.

Scientists now believe that there is a link between high fructose intakes and obesity and metabolic syndrome. Authorities have raised concerns about the use of high fructose corn syrup to sweeten drinks and other products. Animal studies have also found that when obesity occurs due to high fructose intakes, there is a close link with type 2 diabetes.

In , researchers published the results of investigations involving young rats. They, too, experienced metabolic changes, oxidative stress , and inflammation after consuming high fructose corn syrup. The results of a review and meta-analysis found that some medications caused people to gain weight over a period of months.

These included:. However, some medications may lead to weight loss. Anyone who is starting a new medication and is concerned about their weight should ask a doctor whether or not the drug is likely to have any effect on their weight.

One study in mice suggested that the more fat a person carries, the less likely their body is to burn fat because of a protein known as sLR It seems that the more fat a person has, the more sLR11 their body will produce.

BMJ , , p. Estimates of excess deaths associated with body mass index and other anthropometric variables. Relation of body mass index and skinfold thicknesses to cardiovascular disease risk factors in children: the Bogalusa Heart Study.

Comparison of bioelectrical impedance and BMI in predicting obesity-related medical conditions. Silver Spring , 14 3 , pp. Skip directly to site content Skip directly to page options Skip directly to A-Z link. Section Navigation.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Syndicate. Causes for sudden weight loss can include. Good nutrition and exercise can help in losing weight. Eating extra calories within a well-balanced diet and treating any underlying medical problems can help to add weight. The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.

Body Weight.