Overview
Obesity is excess body fat that raises the risk of diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, arthritis and several cancers — and it is rising quickly in Nigerian cities with processed foods, sugary drinks and sedentary work. It is a medical condition shaped by environment and biology, not a moral failing. Even a 5-10% weight loss measurably improves health.
Symptoms
- Body mass index of 30 or above (25-30 is overweight)
- Increasing waist size
- Breathlessness with mild activity
- Joint pains, especially knees
- Snoring or poor sleep
- Tiredness and low energy
Causes & risk factors
- Energy-dense diets — fried foods, sugary drinks, large portions
- Sedentary work and little daily movement
- Genetics and family eating patterns
- Stress, poor sleep and emotional eating
- Certain medicines and hormonal conditions
Treatment & self-care
Sustainable change beats crash dieting: a dietitian can build a realistic plan around Nigerian foods — more vegetables, beans and whole grains, smaller swallow portions, fewer fried foods and sugary drinks — paired with activity you can keep up, like brisk daily walking. Doctors screen for and treat related conditions, and medical or surgical options exist for severe obesity. Slimming teas and unregulated pills are unsafe and do not produce lasting loss.
See a doctor urgently if
- BMI over 30, or over 25 with hypertension or diabetes in the family
- Breathlessness, chest discomfort or marked snoring with daytime sleepiness
- Weight gain despite genuine diet and activity changes
- Considering weight-loss medication or surgery