What nutritional deficiencies are most common in obese people?
This discussion will explore the relationship between obesity and nutritional deficiency. Research shows that despite the idea being contradictory, many overweight people are lacking in vital nutrients. This article will explore why it happens, what nutrients are missing and how to fill these gaps. Understanding these complex issues will help us better tackle obesity holistically.
What Nutritional Deficits Mean for Obese People
It is important to understand nutritional deficiencies among obese people, as it helps break the stereotype of obesity being synonymous with overnutrition. According to an article published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association (JADA), obese people often suffer from nutrient deficiency similar to that of underweight individuals. Ironically, while obese people may consume a lot of calories, their quality is usually poor. This leads to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. It is important to address these deficiencies and manage obesity.
Important Points
It's vital to keep in mind that all calories are not created equally when assessing nutritional deficiencies among obese people. Diets high in sugars, processed food, and saturated fats may lead to obesity, but the body will still be starved for essential nutrients. A study in Nutrition Reviews found that diets rich in energy dense, low nutrient foods are responsible for the paradoxical coexistence between obesity and malnutrition. In order to manage obesity and the nutritional deficiencies that accompany it, shifting from quantity of calories to quality is key.
Common nutritional deficiencies in obese individuals
- Vitamin D. A recent study published in Obesity Reviews revealed that obese people are more likely to be vitamin D-deficient.
- Anemia can be caused by low iron in obese individuals. The World Journal of Gastroenterology published research that supports this.
- A study published in the PLoS ONE Journal found that obese individuals are more likely to suffer from vitamin B12 deficiencies, particularly those who have undergone bariatric surgeries.
- Calcium: Studies suggest that a low intake of calcium may be a factor in obesity and metabolic complications.
- Folate: According to a study in Public Health Nutrition, obese women are more likely to suffer from folate deficiencies.
- According to research published in Nutrition Journal, vitamin C is essential for good health. However, it's often deficient in overweight individuals.
- Low potassium levels in obesity are reported by the American Journal of Physiology to have a negative impact on heart and muscle functions.
Other Tips
It is not enough to take supplements. This includes regular exercise, a diet rich in nutrients, and frequent medical checks. Weight management does not only mean reducing your food intake, but also improving the quality of it. Incorporate plenty of vegetables and fruits, as well as lean protein, whole grains and healthy fats, into your diet. Exercise can improve the body's absorption of nutrients. Routine checkups will detect deficiencies earlier.
Conclusion
It is clear that obesity can be linked to significant nutritional deficiencies. These deficiencies can be effectively addressed by focusing on food quality, encouraging regular physical activity and making sure that health checkups are done regularly.
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