Not All Fat is Created Equal: 6 Different Types of Obesity to Understand
While a large amount of studies have been done on weight loss and what are the fastest, healthiest, and most efficient ways to lose, there is one study that has been conducted that identified different types of obesity models. The research done by the University of Sheffield using a cluster analysis answered the question "who are the obese?" by defining distinct groups of those considered overweight with a BMI >30. The conclusion of the study is actually pretty predictable: there is a wide array of obese people. The study found that there are six distinct groups of commonly obese people, and they are all widely different.
The study showed that the 6 distinct groups of obese people are:
1. Heavy drinking males
2. Younger healthy females
3. Affluent healthy elderly
4. The physically sick but happy elderly
5. Unhappy anxious middle aged
6. Those with the poorest health
Now while this may seem like an odd conclusion since it showed us what is commonly an assumption -- that obesity comes in many different forms -- what this study also highlights that, what works for one person fighting obesity will not work for the rest. Our needs are different! The study states that "obesity-related interventions often target obese people in general, rather than any particular population subgroup."
We know that obesity is commonly fought with change of diet, extra exercise, and sometimes weight loss surgery, getting to know the whole of a person before prescribing a solution is extremely helpful. Delving into one's mental health, family history, drinking habits, and health condition is important before deciding on a weight loss plan. While a study of what would work best for each of these 6 distinct groups is still being conducted, knowing that there are stable cluster groups of those who are obese helps to know that in the future there will be a distinct separate solution to each of these 6 groups.
If you are struggling with obesity, seeing a doctor who is interested in your body and life as a whole is going to be the most effective. For example: if you are struggling with mental health issues and obesity, it may be important for you to address the mental health concern first before the obesity, as poor mental health may be connected to obesity. Know that if you are struggling with weight gain and obesity that there is help out there for you, and that you are not alone!
