We have all heard of the term obesity and know that to be obese, it means there is an increase in our size and of course, the number of fat cells throughout the body. Most commonly, we tend to notice an excessive layer of fat around our waistlines and we need to be aware that the increase in this particular area can lead to extra risk for heart disease for example.

Those people, who are obese, have an increased risk of the following conditions:

• Cancer
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes (type 2)
• Sleeping disorders
• Breathing disorders
• Depression
• Stroke
• High cholesterol

Over-eating causes obesity because the number of calories which are consumed daily and over a period of time is too high for the requirements of the body and as such this additional energy is stored within the cells of the body as sugar and fat reserves and this immediately gives the appearance of being overweight.

There are of course other factors that should be taken into consideration including metabolic rate, genetic traits, physiological reasons and some medications.

Some natural treatments for obesity include:

Lime and Honey

This is one of the best remedies for helping to combat the effects of obesity, mix one teaspoon of fresh honey with the juice from half of a lime. This should be added to a glass of warm water and consumed throughout the day. (Treat this as a fast for best effect)

Tomato

Eat one or two ripe tomatoes each morning instead of having breakfast, and this will really help with weight-loss.

Cabbage

Cabbage is renowned for helping obesity and the reason for this is that it contains a chemical called tartaric acid which inhibits sugar and carbohydrates to fat.

Nutrition

Have a well-balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and reduce high fat foods.

Mint

Add mint leaves to salad or to vegetables as this is useful for assisting weight- loss

Meditation

Meditation can help to eliminate stress and strains from everyday living therefore also eliminating the need to eat for comfort.

Affirmations

If comfort eating is an issue, write some personal affirmations which are personal statements of intent and this can help you to avoid snacking for the sake of it. Examples include ‘I will not over-eat and I will lose weight'.

Eat regularly

Eat three balanced meals a day. True weight-loss must be done sensibly and carefully.