Pretty blunt as a title, but, make no mistake, it is nonetheless true! Obesity is a serious problem in the world.

HOW COMMON IS OBESITY?

According to the CDC, in 2017, 41% of American adults were obese. Non-Hispanic Black adults (49.9%) had the highest age-adjusted prevalence of obesity, followed by Hispanic adults (45.6%), non-Hispanic White adults (41.4%) and non-Hispanic Asian adults (16.1%). Obesity is also very prevalent among young adults. The CDC reported that 1 in 3 individuals aged 17-24 is obese, that is 33%. In 2018, 71% of this age would not have been able to join the military if they had wanted to, being obese or overweight was one of the three reasons. Even worse, 19% of US active service member had obesity in 2020. And no, it is not a “rich country problem”. Actually, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), the vast majority of overweight or obese children live in developing countries, where the rate of increase has been more than 30% higher than that of developed countries. That is how common obesity is.

WHAT IS DEFINED AS OBESITY?

Obesity is defined as a medical condition characterized by an excess of body fat to the extent that it may have a negative impact on a person’s health. It is typically measured and classified using a person’s body mass index (BMI), which is a ratio of a person’s weight in kilograms to their height in meters squared. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity using the following BMI classifications for adults:

1. Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
2. Normal weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9
3. Overweight: BMI 25 to 29.9
4. Obesity (Class I): BMI 30 to 34.9
5. Obesity (Class II): BMI 35 to 39.9
6. Obesity (Class III): BMI 40 or greater

It’s important to note that BMI is a rough estimate and does not take into account other factors like muscle mass, bone density, and distribution of fat, which can vary between individuals. Therefore, it’s possible for someone to have a high BMI due to muscle mass rather than excess body fat.

HOW DOES OBESITY AFFECT YOUR MANHOOD?

Multiple ways. Let’s go over 4 of them.

1-OBESITY AND TESTOSTERONE

One of the critical ways obesity influences masculinity is by its effects on testosterone level. We all know testosterone is the “male hormone” responsible for various aspects of male physiology and psychology. When obesity sets in, it can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance in the body, leading to lower testosterone levels.

Fat cells, especially abdominal fat, can produce aromatase, an enzyme which turns testosterone in estrogen. Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone. Although minimally present in men, excessive level of estrogen can result in a range of problems, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and reduced sperm production. These issues can profoundly affect a man’s sense of masculinity and self-esteem. (Read also: Telltale signs of low testosterone in men.)

2-OBESITY AND DIABETES

Obesity is strongly associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus, which is characterized by too much sugar in the blood all the time. One of the long-term consequences of diabetes is peripheral neuropathy, which is damage to the nerves. Imagine it like this: an erection occurs when the nerves in your sacral (lower back) region send a signal to the blood vessels in your penis to dilate and receive blood, electricity and plumbery. Any damage to your sacral nerves can hinder this process. Diabetes, when not controlled, does just that, slowly but surely. The damage occurs through continuous non-enzymatic glycosylation of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids (DNA, RNA), resulting in advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). The accumulation of these AGEs in the nerves responsible for erection “kills” them, and makes it impossible to have an erection even if you want it.

3-SELF-ESTEEM AND BODY IMAGE

Obesity can take a toll on a man’s self-esteem and body image. Society often places immense pressure on individuals, particularly men, to conform to certain physical standards. When it leads to a loss of confidence and a negative self-image, it can be emotionally devastating. A man lacking self-confidence and suffering from depression will have a hard time achieving and maintain an erection. Psycgogenic causes account for 40% of erectile dysfunction cases.

Men struggling with being obese may feel less attractive, less desirable, and less confident in their relationships and social interactions. This can create a vicious cycle, as emotional distress can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms like overeating or avoiding physical activity, further exacerbating the obesity issue.

4-OBESITY AND RELATIONSHIPS

Maintaining healthy relationships is a crucial aspect of masculinity for many men. Obesity can strain relationships in various ways:

1. Intimacy issues: As discussed earlier, obesity can lead to sexual dysfunction, causing frustration and dissatisfaction in intimate relationships.
2. Communication problems: Men struggling with obesity may find it challenging to discuss their feelings and concerns with their partners, leading to communication breakdowns.
3. Reduced energy and vitality: Obesity can result in fatigue and reduced physical activity, limiting the ability to engage in activities that foster intimacy and connection.

Addressing obesity as a couple, through open communication and shared lifestyle changes, can help strengthen relationships and restore a sense of masculinity.

TO CONCLUDE

Obesity is a complex and pervasive issue that affects many aspects of a person’s life, including masculinity. It can disrupt hormonal balance, lead to sexual dysfunction, and erode self-esteem. However, by recognizing the impact of obesity on masculinity and taking proactive steps to address it, individuals can regain control of their health, self-image, and relationships.

Remember that seeking help and making lifestyle changes are signs of strength, not weakness. Embracing a healthier lifestyle is not only an investment in your physical health but also a way to reclaim your sense of masculinity and well-being. Obesity may be challenging, but with the right support and determination, you can overcome it and rediscover your manhood.

You should not be obese. But, if you are, you do not have to kill yourself over it either. It can be reversed. The first step is acknowledging the impact of obesity on masculinity. Then take action. It is also important to set realistic goals for weight loss and lifestyle changes. Keep in mind that crash diets do not work, and most influencers on social media lie about how they get to where they are. Losing weight is not a sprint, but a marathon. Only small, sustainable changes can lead to significant improvements over time.

Yours in good health

MDLINE HEALTH