The number 1 reason for obesity, according to doctors.

Although COVID-19 But Americans are eyeing a different epidemic that shows no sign of surrender: Obesity. More Americans than ever—about 42% of us—qualify as obese. clinic is an urgent problem This is because obesity significantly increases the risk of serious illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer and dementia. But there is a solution. And they started by recognizing the root causes of obesity. Here’s what the experts say. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others. Don’t Miss Our Exclusive Report: This Diet Is the Best Way to Lose Weight.

“To determine if someone is obese or not We’ll look at body mass index,” a measure of body fat based on height and weight. Me Ali, MDbariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, Calif. “The normal range for BMI is 18 to 25.” A BMI greater than 25 is considered overweight, while “anyone with a BMI greater than 30 is considered obese.” And they are at risk of developing health problems because of their weight,” Ali said.

People tend to be overweight because they consume more calories than they regularly spend. “A lot has to do with the quality of food and habits. that people can enter, such as having regular snacks,” he said. JoAnn Manson, MD, DrPH, Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Head of Preventive Medicine at Brigham & Women’s Hospital.

But not all calories are created equal. Certain highly processed foods, such as simple carbohydrates, sweets, packaged snacks and fast food won’t fill you up It also encourages your body to eat more and keep eating.

For example, foods that are heavy on processed foods like potato chips, cookies, and TV dinners increase a person’s blood sugar levels. This can cause insulin to skyrocket and fail. leading to frequent feelings of hunger “That kind of food doesn’t tend to make you feel full. So you tend to overeat,” Manson says.

Related: 15 Evidence-Based Weight Loss Tips Expert Says

Experts say there’s no magic bullet (or diet) for weight loss. It’s important to consume fewer calories. “The truth is Almost any diet is effective. [for weight loss] if it helps you get fewer calories.” say Harvard Medical School

Therefore, doctors recommend eating high-quality calories. The same is true for a Mediterranean diet that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, fish and olive oil. while eating red meat processed meat and low processed foods for snacks Instead of dessert or fries Try eating nuts, fruit, or non-starchy vegetables with yogurt.

These healthy staples can be delicious and satisfying. It makes you full without starving or counting calories in the old days. “Food quality is more important than calorie intake,” Manson says. “A high-quality diet almost automatically leads to better calorie control. You will need to eat more fuller food.”

“The goal of obesity treatment is to reach and maintain a healthy weight,” says the Mayo Clinic. “This improves your overall health and reduces the risk of obesity-related complications. You may need to work with a team of health professionals. including nutritionists Behavioral Counselor or obesity specialist to help you understand and change your diet and activity habits The initial treatment goal is usually a small weight loss — 5% to 10% of your total weight. That means if you weigh 200 pounds (91 kg) and are obese by BMI Standard You only need to lose 10 to 20 pounds (4.5 to 9 kg) for your health to start. The more you benefit, the more you get.” And now you have a good foundation. Don’t miss these additions. 19 Weight Loss Foods That Actually Work.