Obesity

Overweight male with tape measure around his waistObesity is caused by eating more calories than you use over a long period of time, leading to excess body fat. It is often measured by your body mass index, or BMI. Obesity increases your risk for diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions. Weight loss, healthy eating, and exercise can decrease these risks. For financial assistance with managing your condition, see our page on Free & Discounted Services.

Support Groups & Forums

These sites allow patients to discuss their experiences with illnesses, treatments, and other health matters. Any information or opinions posted are those of the forum users themselves and are not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Mobile Apps & Tools

Mobile apps and tools give you easy-to-use information and resources that can help you get and stay healthy. For tips on choosing apps for obesity, see How to Choose a Good Health App by The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

BMI Calculator is a reliable indicator of total body fat, which is related to the risk of disease and death. Free. iOS, Android.

Fooducate provides nutrition information about foods, grading products by nutrition and ingredients. Free. iOS, Android.

Lose It! is a weight loss app that lets users set goals, create a calorie budget, and track food and exercise. Free. iOS, Android, Kindle, Nook.

This app helps you succeed in your weight loss goals by tracking food and exercise. Free. iOS, Android.

 

Resources selected by Jamie Conklin, Health Sciences Library, UNC-Chapel Hill,
Last reviewed July 25, 2023

Last updated July 25, 2023 at 12:59 pm