The latest report by World Health Organization shows that 59 percent of the European adult population and almost 30 percent of children suffer from obesity. This forms part of an increasing trend among populations in high-income counties. Globally, the number of obese people is expected to hit one billion by 2030.
Some cases are exacerbated by conditions such as endocrine, cardiac diseases, depression, or various injuries which need special medical attention. These medical conditions need to be addressed separately and treated together with a physician before taking action to return to a healthy weight.
However, oftentimes the recommended way to deal with it is to change one’s lifestyle, such as modifications to diet and increasing exercise.
Taking action is especially important since being chronically overweight and obesity are among the leading causes of death and disability in Europe. For example, obesity is directly responsible for at least 200,000 new cancer cases annually.
One set of measures has been proposed by a Lithuanian bariatric surgeon – Linas Venclauskas, who has weighed up the techniques needed to help to restore a healthy weight. These methods comprise both physical and mental health.
According to Venclauskas, what people in Europe need to consider is a diet of: “Less carbs and alcohol, more exercise—people who have a tendency to gain weight should stick to these basic rules.”
Acknowledging this can be challenging for many, Venclauskas adds: “If they are unable to do that on their own, dietitians, fitness trainers, and physicians are always there to help them reach their healthy body goals.”
Furthermore, there can be mental health improvements from physical exercise. As Venclauskas finds; “Great well-being and sufficient physical activity are known to lower stress and the desire for constant snacking.”
Further with mental health, Venclauskas notes: “The stress in professional and personal life often propels the development of the illness. If this is the case, the surgeon offered to consult with specialists who can help manage high stress levels—psychiatrists or psychologists. “
Summing up his advice, Venclauskas concludes: “The most important advice is to take care of one’s mind and eliminate the stressors from the environment, at the same time putting in the daily work finding delicious but healthy foods, exercising, and monitoring well-being.”
