With the holidays around the corner, it’s an appropriate time to reflect on the importance of maintaining your ideal body weight, as the effects of obesity on the body are far reaching. Carrying extra weight puts a significant stress on the circulatory system, the endocrine system, and the musculoskeletal system.
Joints are lined with a smooth articular cartilage that is responsible for distributing weight placed on the body through daily activities. When these loads become excessive, the cartilage starts to break down and arthritis ensues. Although regenerative techniques such as platelet-rich-plasma (PRP) and viscosupplementary injections can slow the process down in its early stages, cartilage thinning and degeneration is often irreversible and may necessitate a joint replacement later in life.
The best way to maintain your weight is to be mindful of your portion size and avoid overeating and taking in extra calories, especially during the holiday seasons. Moderate exercise for 30 minutes, three to four times a week is recommended to help keep your resting metabolism active and help keep off the extra pounds.
You can calculate your recommended body weight by visiting the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute website and inputting your height and weight to find your body mass index (BMI). This tool can help you determine your goals to remain well nourished, lean, and active.
Healthy habits can make a big difference in your energy level, mood, and overall happiness. Make a commitment to yourself today!
Dr. Tigran Garabekyan is a board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip preservation. To learn more about Southern California Hip Institute or to schedule a consultation, click here to contact us. Serving patients in Encino, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, North Hollywood, Burbank, Glendale, West Hollywood, Century City, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, and other neighboring cities in the greater Los Angeles area.
