Obesity is a condition that is best defined as an excess accumulation of fat, or what scientists call adipose tissue. Obesity arises as a result of an imbalance between your food intake and the amount of calories that you burn. The ideal weight of an individual is determined by taking into consideration his age, height, sex and build. A simple way to know if your weight is normal or if you are considered overweight or even obese is to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI). You are considered to be overweight if your BMI is within the range 25-30; obese if it is above 30.

Obesity itself is proven to have serious hazardous implications on your health. If you are obese you will be at a greater risk of developing chronic conditions that compromise your general health and may even result in premature death. Socio-economic problems related to the condition are also common. These can range from aches-and-pains that lead you to lose valuable work-time to psychological concerns including low self esteem. Obesity is therefore considered one of the worlds most prevalent, chronic and disabling conditions.