Have you ever heard the term “fit obese”? It refers to people who are overweight or obese but still engage in physical activities, thinking that their activeness counteracts the negative impacts of their excess weight. Sadly, a new Swedish study has busted that myth. No matter how fit one is, being obese puts you at an increased risk of early death.
The Problem: Assumptions and Denial
One of the main reasons people tend to believe that they can be fit and obese at the same time is because of denial. It often manifests in phrases like, “I may be fat, but I’m still fit, and that’s what’s most important.” People think that as long as they are active and feel fit, they are healthy. This assumption can be a significant setback in improving overall health.
Denial often affects parents’ decisions regarding their children’s participation in physical activities as well. Many allow their kids to spend time in front of screens or other sedentary activities, which are not a substitute for exercise. This sedentary lifestyle can lead to obesity in childhood and carry over into adulthood, increasing the risks associated with being overweight.
The Swedish Study: Fit Obese and Early Death
A team of researchers from Umeå University conducted a comprehensive study of 1.3 million Swedish men, assessing their aerobic fitness levels at the age of 18 and then tracking any deaths that occurred during a follow-up period of 29 years.
The results were surprising. Although aerobic fitness helped lower death risk among normal weight and overweight individuals, the same could not be said for obese participants. In fact, researchers found that unfit normal-weight individuals had 30% lower risk of death from any cause than did fit obese individuals. These findings debunk the myth of a “fit obese” person.
Researchers are still unsure about why fitness does not prevent early death among obese individuals; however, they identified that as Body Mass Index (BMI) increased, aerobic fitness became increasingly less beneficial.
Overcoming Denial and Taking Action
Exercise and fitness are vital for overall health and longevity. Unfortunately, once one moves from being overweight to obese, exercise alone is not enough to stave off early death. The power of denial can lead to tragic consequences, with people continuing to believe that they are fit even when they are at risk.
Parents can help by encouraging their children to participate in sports and other physical activities and avoid leading sedentary lifestyles. For adults who are already overweight or obese, using a combination of exercise and a healthy diet is crucial to avoid the risks associated with obesity. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals and creating a personalized weight loss plan can help individuals achieve a healthier lifestyle.
Just being active is not enough to counteract the adverse effects of obesity. It is crucial to overcome denial and take steps to adopt a healthier lifestyle to prevent early death and improve overall well-being. Engaging in physical activities and maintaining a balanced diet is the key to avoiding obesity and its associated risks.
