Essay Example on Overweight Predisposes Individuals to Cardiovascular Diseases: BMI Vital for Interventions

Introduction

Overweight and obesity critically predispose individuals to cardiovascular diseases, which can be chronic and fatal. The body mass index (BMI) is vital in determining an overweight individual, thus providing evidence for interventions. Scientifically, there are four levels of measuring weight. An individual with a BMI of less than 18.9 is underweight; Normal weight is a BMI of between 18.5 and 24.9; overweight is BMI of 25 to 29.9 while obese is a BMI is 30 or more. Overweight predisposes individuals to different types of cardiovascular conditions, including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, Coronary heart disease, stroke, mental illness such as clinical depression, constant body pains, and reduced physical function such as difficulty in moving. Age-related overweight results in changes in the anatomy, structure, and composition of the body. The stature of overweight people declines gradually from about age 30.

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Effects of Additional Weight on Physical Status

Overweight results in quick ageing. It makes individuals appear older than their age. Moreover, an overweight person has difficulty in balancing the body in an upright position hence, always unstable. The debilitating effects of weight also cause mechanical stress. Carrying above pounds results in problems in movement. The extra weight also strains the muscles that maintain body structure resulting in physical deformities.

Barriers and Challenges to Losing Weight in The USA

The proliferation of fast foods and snack foods in the USA is a dominant barrier to weight loss. People can easily walk or drive through fast food outlets and buy high-calorie foods, which are often tasty, thus addictive. Family diets, too, do not include healthy eating, which results in a culture of improper dietary habits across the generations. The misconception also compounds the problem of overweight that healthier foods are more costly. Again, most people work in offices or indoors as opposed to jobs that require physical energy. This sedentary life coincides with low regard for physical exercise, especially among the low-income minority communities.

Cultural Considerations When Discussion Weight and Overweight With Clients

Weight and weight loss have both cultural as well as individual dimensions. It is important to be culturally aware and use a counselling approach when tackling weight issues. The beliefs and social norms around food and weight are critical considerations. It is also imperative to be aware of practices found among different groups such as African Americans, Hispanics, and white population groups

Considerations for Mark to Achieve a Healthy Weight

Maintaining healthy bodyweight requires nutritional, lifestyle, and psychological interventions. It is important to reduce the consumption of calories, especially fast foods with high amounts of salts and hidden sugars. Instead, eat proper portions of food regularly in time. Also, exercising, especially in bouts of 30 minutes, is important to promote the oxidation of fats. Mark also needs to avoid stressors and have enough sleep.