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Myth:
People only become obese and overweight because they do not engage in weight loss efforts including physical activity and have unhealthy eating habits
Fact:
It is important to remember that obesity is not always a behavioral issue. Although physical activity and eating habits are major contributors to obesity, there are other elements to consider in evaluating the causes of obesity. In many instances, weight loss and management efforts require a balanced combination of behavioral change and medical/scientific evaluation and intervention. In addition, hormone disorders – such as those related to the thyroid, adrenal glands, pituitary glands, and ovaries – can contribute to obesity.
Myth:
Obesity is only prevalent in developed countries that foster indulgent lifestyles, with poor diets and lack of exercise, like the United States and the United Kingdom.
Fact:
In economically advanced regions of developing countries, prevalence rates of obesity may be as high as rates in industrialized countries. Contrary to popular opinion, in developing countries – where malnutrition levels are high – there are also reported cases of obesity. While the causes of obesity are still under investigation, researchers hypothesize that rising obesity rates in developing countries may be due to societal changes such as greater food consumption and genetic adaptations that impact metabolism.
Myth:
Once committed to a weight-loss regimen, obese individuals should attempt to lose a large amount of weight as quickly as possible.
Fact:
Actually, weight loss – especially fast weight loss (more than 1.5 kilograms per week) or loss of a large amount of weight – can increase the risk of developing gallstones. Maintaining a steady regimen of about 0.5 to 1.0 kilogram a week over time is more sustainable and less likely to cause gallstones.
Myth:
Weight gain in women over time is healthy and part of a natural aging process
Fact:
Although metabolism may change over time, weight gain of more than 10 kilograms is not a normal part of the maturation process and may actually increase a woman’s risk of obesity-related disease.
Myth:
There is nothing you can do about childhood obesity
Fact:
This is probably the worst myth out there about obesity in children. There are a lot of things that can be done especially regarding the child’s lifestyle. Different types of treatments are also available if necessary.