Did you realize that over 40% of the adults in America are considered obese?  Many healthcare professionals believe that the United States is in the midst of an obesity epidemic. The uptick in diseases caused by being overweight, like type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, have also skyrocketed in the past few years. 

The longer a person stays obese, the harder it is for them to avoid serious health problems. The first thing you need to do to regain control of your waistline is to educate yourself about the obesity epidemic and the problems it is causing. Below are some common misconceptions about the obesity epidemic and the truth behind them. 

“Obesity Is Only an Adult Problem” 

Perhaps the biggest misconception people have about obesity is that it only affects adults. In reality, there are a number of obese kids as well. Generally, kids that are overweight will grow into obese adults. If you see your child struggling with weight issues, it is your job to help them. The best way to do this is by educating yourself about how to lose weight the healthy way. 

Consulting with a weight loss clinic in Chicago is a great way to get the information you need to help your child. One of the main things a weight loss professional will tell you is that leading by example is crucial when trying to get a child to adopt a healthier way of living. This means that you will need to prepare healthy meals and make an effort to exercise with your child regularly. Making small changes will pay off in a big way. 

“Only Massive Weight Loss Improves Your Health” 

Many obese people avoid getting on the scale because they are scared of what it will tell them about their bodies. Most obese people think that they have to lose tons of weight to improve their overall health. In reality, even losing a few pounds can make you feel much better. 

For every pound that you lose, you take up to 10 lbs. of pressure off your joints. By reducing the amount of strain on your knees and joints, you can reduce the pain and discomfort you feel. 

If you are a type 2 diabetic, adopting a healthier way of living can help you control your blood sugar levels. Consulting with your primary care physician is a wise move when trying to figure out what type of diet you should follow. They can also provide you with information on how to develop a winning workout regimen to follow. 

“Obesity Is Just an American Problem” 

Another common misconception people have about the obesity epidemic is that it only affects “Western countries”, mainly the United States. While obesity levels are much higher in the United States, this problem is widespread and affects a number of countries. For instance, the obesity rate in Libya is around 28% and over 32% in South Africa. 

With all of the different weight loss treatments available, selecting the best one can be difficult. You need to realize that there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to weight loss. The best way to figure out what method works for your sensibilities is by working with both reputable weight loss clinics and medical professionals. 

It’s Time to Take Control of Your Weight Problem 

If you are tired of feeling sluggish because you have a weight problem, it is time to take action. Losing weight will be challenging, but the hard work you invest in yourself and your health will pay off in the end.