• Published on: Oct 01, 2021
  • 7 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Weight Loss & Obesity

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Weight Loss & Obesity

It's not just the number of calories you eat, but also how they're distributed within meals. The best strategy is to "pulse" you’re eating throughout daily life, not focusing on any one period of time. I recommend eating at least five servings of veggies every day. If you are trying to lose weight or maintain your weight, pay close attention to what types of foods you are choosing at each meal and snack time. Drink smoothies rather than juice - blending first allows for more nutrients extraction plus it tastes better! :) Finally, find other physical activities that YOU enjoy aside from calorie-burning workouts because there are many ways that our bodies can stay healthy aside from running or lifting weights.

Often people confuse calories in with calories out. People often talk about how you should eat less to lose weight, but it's simply because your metabolism isn't static - it changes too. What this means is that even if you decrease your caloric intake but don't change anything else, the weight loss will stop after a certain point. The point at which the weight loss stops is different for each person, but generally between 1200 and 1900 daily caloric intake (or 0.5-1 pound of fat per week). At this point, it becomes more important to increase either exercise or metabolism than just eating less food.

A diet centered on the consumption of whole foods, less processed food, and more plant-based options is helpful in weight management. This also means low glycemic carbohydrates coupled with lots of fruits and vegetables are excellent sources for reducing inflammatory cytokines that come from an Imbalanced diet. Along with this healthy eating lifestyle, you should limit or avoid empty calories found in soda pop, sugar-loaded restaurant foods. If you're an athlete trying to maintain body composition, I recommend manipulating your macronutrients intake depending on what type of training it is.

Obesity and weight management is a complicated process, and the most important tip is to find an eating plan you can stick to. There are many different approaches, but what has been proven without a doubt not only for effectiveness but also safety (especially in cardiac patients) is the low carbohydrate diet which typically restricts calories by 500-1500 kcal per day. Exercise does help with weight loss because it tends to increase our basal metabolic rate - the body's natural calorie burns throughout the day; however, exercise often suppresses levels of insulin sensitivity so may not be ideal for some people who have type 2 diabetes or other conditions. The good news is that resting heart rates improve due to increased aerobic capacity while on a low carbohydrate diet approach!

It's not always how many calories you eat, but what kinds of meals they are. A calorie is like a calorie whether it comes from meat, rice, vegetables, or cookies. Calories are needed for energy to keep life going and if someone was eating more than necessary they would be gaining weight just as fast as if they were using more energy by being active. The key here is the word "unnecessary". Weight loss isn't about cutting calories intake or reducing food intake - it's about getting your body into a healthy routine that doesn't require so much energy every day to maintain that routine.

Weight loss is not about losing weight, it's about changing your body composition. Losing weight will only change the number of total kilograms you carry around and doesn't change how many centimeters or inches you have on your body. Weight training and cardio should be supplemented with a well-thought-out diet plan. This means higher percentages of proteins and healthy fats, moderate to low amounts of carbohydrates, and higher quantities of vegetables than fruits; this will ensure that muscle retains the right composition (protein > fat) while also feeling fuller for longer periods of time. Two diets that work wonders are Keto (low carbohydrate) and Whole30 (no processed ingredients).

When we take in more calories than we need, the body stores these excess carbohydrates in our muscle and liver cells in a form called glycogen. For every gram of glycogen stored therein, the body increases its fat reserves by 3-4 grams. When we restrict calorie intake or simply consume fewer calories so that our glycogen stores are depleted and therefore less weight is gained on any new carbohydrates consumed, then it seems to be true that there does exist an inevitable loss of weight no matter what type of diet one selects. This is because when new carbohydrates are not converted to renewed stores of glycogen within muscle cells but instead are changed into body fat which remains beneath the skin since this has nowhere else to go.

One of the consequences of that is that such people tend to feel very hungry (not surprisingly), and will binge on sugary food. And this seems to be an issue which will not go away, as they must satisfy their hunger with something filling and tasty. The body stops producing ghrelin (which makes us feel full) when we stop eating.

Studies have found that dieters who exercise and do not overeat average a 1-2lb. weight loss per week. In other words, if you lose two pounds before the end of a week, then your total weight loss for this period has been four pounds. It is worth remembering that during periods of weight maintenance any excess calorie intake will still result in a gradual increase in body fat accumulation. Weight lost through dietary restriction alone will only be maintained over time by following an appropriately reduced energy intake regimen as there simply aren't enough stored calories to sustain such losses indefinitely without dietary intervention.

Exercise becomes necessary to maintain those hard-won gains as well as your general good health and sense of well-being! In the late 1950s, a paper published in the New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated that weight loss occurred when calories were reduced from 3,200 to 1,200 per day. Of course, it should be mentioned that this is not an optimal diet for everyone because building muscle and doing regular exercise is also beneficial for increasing your metabolism and increasing your ability to burn fat at rest. Unintentional weight loss happens in many cases when patients are prescribed life-saving treatments or undergo surgeries that reduce their appetite or alter their metabolism. These patients need specialized care designed according to their food preferences and medical needs rather than simply "lose weight."

This answer will explore the importance of weight loss and reducing obesity. The most important aspect of weight loss is that it helps with visceral fat, which is very dangerous to the human body. Visceral fat resides just below the abdominal area and has been found to cause higher levels of insulin resistance among other things. Causes a person's insulin levels to rise after a meal, which in turn makes them hungrier again quicker than if they were normal weight or a little bit overweight/obese.  

Our weight is heavily influenced by genetics, so it's important to understand your family history before you start making any conclusions or plans about diet and exercise. You also need to take into consideration whether you are active or sedentary because this will dramatically change the outcomes of any changes you make diet-wise too!

Losing weight is not an easy feat. But it's worth it if you want to live a healthier, more productive life. If you're looking for good choices for weight loss, consider including these food items into your diet: eggs, lean red meat, fruits and vegetables (including dark leafy greens), beans (chickpeas, navy beans), whole grains (oatmeal, brown rice), nuts and seeds. All of these foods will help with quality protein intake as well as maintaining the right calorie level that keeps your metabolism up while burning fat off!

It’s important to maintain a healthy weight because the less you weigh, the easier your body is on your joints. The ease of movement may also help improve circulation and make it easier for blood to circulate oxygen/nutrients back to tissues that need them. From an aesthetic point of view, it can increase self-confidence by boosting one's confidence about their body image.

Having more muscle is better than having more fat, which is why it's recommended that people build muscle mass instead of just shedding pounds. Furthermore, some studies have shown that obesity is linked with lower levels of the reproductive hormone (ie estrogen), compromised immune response (making you more susceptible to illness), infertility due to decreased ovulation rates. The biggest concern with obesity isn't apparent. It's a life-threatening disease. Overweight people have a higher risk of contracting an illness or condition that could be fatal, including diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer just to name a few.

Obesity also damages self-esteem and mental health due to bullying from peers and low self-worth from feeling both tired and unattractive. This can lead to eating disorders such as bulimia or anorexia nervosa or it can fuel clinical depression by providing a scapegoat for personal insecurities through weight gain. In obese couples even if one partner is not clinically obese they can suffer from poorer quality sleep patterns which have been shown in studies to affect mental health.

Obesity has always been correlated with higher probabilities of poor health. It's not just about an image problem, it's about good health too. Recent research shows that people with high weight, even if they seem healthy or aren't yet affected by the typical symptoms linked to childhood obesity (like diabetes), are more likely to have problems later on in life like cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes. Obesity can also lead to chronic pain due to increased stress on soft connective tissues supporting the joints - things like muscles and ligaments are aggravated over time because their force is no longer dispersed but rather being focused on one area instead.  Achieving and sustaining a healthy weight is one of the most important things we can do for our health.

If we gain 30 pounds we increase our chances of developing cardiovascular disease by 60%. We reduce risk as soon as we try to lose those extra pounds even if we're not successful in losing all of the weight gained. People with chronic high blood pressure may see their blood pressure return to normal or near-normal levels simply by losing 10% of their body weight.

Weight loss, especially for overweight adolescent girls, can have a positive effect on mental health and self-esteem too. Though there are some exceptions to the rule, most adolescents with obesity tend to have lower self-esteem than their counterparts of normal weight. Sometimes that has more to do with slimmer peers being mean or taunting them about their size rather than just inner thoughts of self-criticism. Studies show that these poor feelings about themselves start in early childhood and continue into adulthood even after they've lost weight and become thin and popular. It's best not to wait until adolescence before trying interventions like dieting because by then habits may already be firmly planted.

Obesity is a major risk factor for chronic medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis of the joint, and sleep apnea. The likely increased health risks associated with obesity have been observed to improve partially with weight loss programs. So isn't it worth a shot? The easiest way to start is by eliminating processed carbs from your diet – let the type 1 diabetics have their gravy – and replacing them with foods that are more nutritious and lower in calories. In other words, instead of munching on pretzels or bagels all day long, eat raw nuts instead. If you're worried that you'll feel weak or tired at first because you've cut out so many food groups from your diet.

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Diabetes symptoms

Diabetes Symptoms in Men: Early Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health challenges worldwide, and men are particularly vulnerable to its long-term complications. In India, the burden of diabetes has increased sharply over the past two decades, driven by lifestyle changes, sedentary habits and dietary patterns. Despite this, many men remain unaware of early diabetes symptoms or delay medical consultation until complications develop.

Understanding diabetes symptoms in men is essential for early diagnosis, effective management and prevention of serious health consequences.

 

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by high blood sugar levels due to:

  • insufficient insulin production
     

  • ineffective insulin action
     

  • or both
     

The most common form affecting men is type 2 diabetes, which is strongly linked to lifestyle factors.

 

Why Men Are at Higher Risk

Several factors increase diabetes risk in men:

  • higher abdominal fat accumulation
     

  • smoking and alcohol consumption
     

  • irregular eating patterns
     

  • work-related stress
     

  • lower healthcare-seeking behaviour
     

According to Indian Council of Medical Research data, a significant proportion of men remain undiagnosed until advanced stages.

 

Early Diabetes Symptoms in Men

Frequent Urination

Excess sugar in the blood causes kidneys to work harder, leading to increased urination, especially at night.

 

Excessive Thirst

Frequent urination leads to dehydration, causing constant thirst.

 

Fatigue and Weakness

Cells cannot utilise glucose efficiently, resulting in low energy levels and persistent tiredness.

 

Unexplained Weight Changes

Men may experience unexplained weight loss despite normal or increased appetite.

 

Increased Hunger

Insulin resistance prevents glucose from entering cells, triggering frequent hunger.

 

Diabetes Symptoms Unique or Commonly Seen in Men

Erectile Dysfunction

Diabetes damages blood vessels and nerves, leading to erectile dysfunction.

Studies show a strong association between diabetes and male sexual health problems.

 

Reduced Testosterone Levels

Men with diabetes often have lower testosterone, affecting libido, muscle mass and mood.

 

Decreased Muscle Strength

Poor glucose utilisation affects muscle health and physical stamina.

 

Skin and Infection-Related Symptoms

Slow-Healing Wounds

High blood sugar impairs wound healing, increasing infection risk.

 

Frequent Infections

Men with diabetes are more prone to:

  • skin infections
     

  • urinary tract infections
     

  • fungal infections
     

 

Vision and Nerve Symptoms

Blurred Vision

Fluctuating blood sugar affects eye lenses, causing blurred vision.

 

Tingling or Numbness

Nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy, causes tingling or numbness in hands and feet.

 

Why Diabetes Symptoms Are Often Ignored by Men

Many men dismiss symptoms as:

  • work-related fatigue
     

  • ageing
     

  • stress
     

This delay increases the risk of complications.

 

Long-Term Complications of Untreated Diabetes

If untreated, diabetes can lead to:

  • heart disease
     

  • kidney failure
     

  • nerve damage
     

  • vision loss
     

  • sexual dysfunction
     

According to WHO and Lancet studies, early detection significantly reduces complication risk.

 

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis allows:

  • better blood sugar control
     

  • lifestyle modification
     

  • prevention of organ damage
     

Routine screening is crucial, even in the absence of symptoms.

 

When Should Men Get Tested?

Men should consider testing if they:

  • are over 30 years old
     

  • have a family history of diabetes
     

  • are overweight
     

  • have a sedentary lifestyle
     

  • experience any warning signs
     

Annual screening is recommended for at-risk individuals.

 

Managing Diabetes After Diagnosis

Effective management includes:

  • healthy diet
     

  • regular physical activity
     

  • weight control
     

  • stress management
     

  • medical treatment as advised
     

Early management improves quality of life.

 

Role of Preventive Healthcare

Preventive healthcare focuses on:

  • early screening
     

  • lifestyle intervention
     

  • regular follow-up
     

According to NITI Aayog, preventive strategies are essential to control India’s diabetes burden.

 

Mental Health and Diabetes in Men

Diabetes can affect mental wellbeing, leading to:

  • stress
     

  • anxiety
     

  • depression
     

Addressing emotional health improves diabetes outcomes.

 

Breaking the Stigma Around Men’s Health

Men often avoid seeking help due to stigma.

Promoting awareness helps:

  • normalise health conversations
     

  • encourage timely medical care
     

  • reduce preventable complications
     

 

Conclusion

Diabetes symptoms in men often develop gradually and may go unnoticed for years. Frequent urination, fatigue, unexplained weight changes and sexual health issues should never be ignored. Early diagnosis and timely management significantly reduce the risk of serious complications and improve long-term health outcomes. Awareness, routine screening and proactive healthcare are essential steps for men to protect their health and wellbeing in an era of rising lifestyle diseases.

 

References

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Diabetes Epidemiology and Risk Studies
  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Diabetes Prevention and Management Guidelines
  • National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Diabetes Prevalence in Men
  • Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology – Male-Specific Diabetes Outcomes
  • NITI Aayog – Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Reports
  • Statista – Global Diabetes Trends and Gender Differences

 

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