The American Medical Association has officially recognized obesity as a disease causing the spotlight to focus is own leading a healthier lifestyle.
Delegates made the decision at the association's annual meeting in Chicago.
"Recognizing obesity as a disease will help change the way the medical community tackles this complex issue that affects approximately one in three Americans," Dr. Patrice Harris, a member of the association's board, said in a statement. Harris added that the new definition would aid the fight against Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, which are linked to obesity.
Many doctors and obesity advocates believe that the decision will help focus more attention on obesity. The spotlight on the disease could help improve reimbursement for obesity drugs, surgery and counseling.
"I think you will probably see from this physicians taking obesity more seriously, counseling their patients about it," said Morgan Downey, an advocate for obese people and publisher of the online Downey Obesity Report. "Companies marketing the products will be able to take this to physicians and point to it and say, 'Look, the mother ship has now recognized obesity as a disease.' "
Reports suggest leading a healthy lifestyle starting at an early age is the best way to prevent the disease and increase life expectancy. By avoiding "junk food" and being physically active, you can maintain the ideal weight for your body type.
There are five health tips that are key to a healthy lifestyle:
1. Be active
The American Heart Association suggests 30 minutes of exercise a day. By increasing your heart rate, you are working out the most important muscle in your body. Whether it's a light jog or a Zumba dance class, get off your couch and move about!
2. Water, Water, Water
Water flushes your body of harmful toxins, keeps your skin healthy, and aids organ functions. Avoid the consumption of coffee because caffeine is known to dehydrate the body.
3. Go Outside
When sunlight hits your skin it creates Vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential to help your body absorb calcium to keep your bones healthy. According to Times of India, low levels of Vitamin D can lead to certain cancers, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and depression.
4. Eat a Balanced Diet
Don't deprive yourself of healthy carbohydrates or sugars. Fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grain foods are what your body needs to fuel itself. Look at nutritional labels and keep an eye one your portion sizes.
5. Sleep
Your body is working all day and it needs time to recharge. The Sleep Foundation recommends seven to nine hours of sleep for adults. Depending on their age, children may need anywhere from 10 to 15 hours of sleep.
