Smith County Extension Office

Over 42% of Americans live with obesity, a complex disease that involves having too much body fat. And within this group are many different lifestyles.

While some people with excess weight could benefit from more physical activity, there are many who exercise regularly. They may go to the gym often or play on an active sports team. Which leads some to wonder: Can I live with obesity and still be considered fit and healthy? It’s a complicated question, but Mayo Clinic endocrinologist Maria Daniela Hurtado A., M.D., Ph.D., breaks it down.

Obesity always carries a risk: “The bottom line is, excess body fat puts you at risk of developing certain diseases.” Even if someone feels in good health now, it’s important to think about health down the road. Continuing to carry excess weight typically catches up with you. Some people may live with obesity, but they don’t have diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol,” says Dr. Hurtado. “That doesn’t mean that with time they won’t develop those complications.”

That’s why it’s important to seek treatment for obesity. Getting to a healthy weight and staying there will reduce these risks and improve overall health.

For more information about Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Programs, contact Smith County Extension Office at 903-590-2980 or email smith-tx@tamu.edu. Like our Facebook page: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Smith County.