Obesity and Overweight: Know the 5 Key Differences

Obesity and overweight are common conditions associated with excess body fat. They are caused by factors such as genetics, family history, dietary habits, lack of physical activity or movement. Body mass index or BMI is used to determine whether a person is overweight or obese. It measures body fat based on a person’s weight and height. It is the person’s body mass (in kilograms or kg) divided by the square of the person’s height (in meters). Obesity and overweight are more than just BMI. On the occasion of World Obesity Day, which is celebrated on March 4, we tell you the differences between obesity and overweight.

What is obesity?

Obesity is a medical condition caused by excessive accumulation of fat in the body, which can have adverse health effects, says surgeon Dr. Vikas Kapoor. This is usually determined by measuring a person’s BMI.

What is overweight?

Being overweight, also assessed using BMI, refers to having more body weight than is considered healthy for a given height.

Want to calculate your BMI? Try the Health Shots BMI Calculator!

What are the differences between obesity and overweight?

According to the World Health Organization, 2.5 billion adults aged 18 years and older will be overweight in 2022. Of these people, 890 million are obese. The differences aren’t many, but here are a few according to experts.

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1. Degree of excess body fat

Obesity and overweight are related to excess fat in the body. Obesity involves a more significant accumulation of body fat compared to being overweight.

2. Health hazards

People who are overweight can still be healthy if they have good lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep and stress management. However, carrying excess weight increases the risk of developing various health problems, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease. While obesity and overweight both carry health risks, the severity and likelihood of complications are greater in obesity, the expert said. Obese people are more prone to conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease.

3. BMI range

When it comes to BMI, according to WHO, you are considered obese if your BMI is greater than or equal to 30. Overweight is slightly underweight, with a BMI greater than or equal to 25. This difference depends on the degree of excess weight relative to height.

4. Effect on mobility and activity

Obesity significantly affects mobility and activity, leading to difficulties in performing daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs and bending. Being overweight can also affect mobility to some extent, but the effect is usually less than that of obesity.

5. Treatment procedures

The approach to managing obesity often includes medical monitoring, dietary changes, exercise programs, and in some cases more serious interventions such as medications or surgical options. Overweight can be addressed through lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, with less emphasis on medical interventions, Dr. Kapur said.

What are healthy ways to lose weight?

If you are obese or overweight and want to lose weight for your health, do the following:

1. Balanced diet

Focus on eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods, including fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, whole grains, and lean proteins. Eat less processed foods, sugary drinks and high-calorie snacks.

2. Regular exercise

Engage in a combination of aerobic exercise such as walking, jogging and swimming, and strength training to burn calories, build muscle and improve your overall fitness. Allocate at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.

3. Portion control

Be mindful of portion sizes so you don’t overeat. Use small plates, bowls and other utensils. Also, pay attention to hunger and fullness cues so you don’t overeat.

4. Hydration

Stay hydrated by drinking water and healthy juices throughout the day. You may feel thirsty at times, but eventually think you are hungry. So, if you drink a good amount of water, you can reduce the amount of calories you consume and support your weight loss efforts.

5. Consistency and Patience

Sustainable weight loss does not happen immediately. It takes time and consistency, so set realistic goals, track progress and be patient with yourself, suggests the expert. Focus on making long-term lifestyle changes rather than going for fad diets or quick fixes.

While obesity and overweight have similarities, they differ in terms of associated health risks, BMI range, impact on activity, and treatment options. Follow healthy habits for safe and sustainable weight loss if you are struggling with obesity or overweight.