Overweight and obesity are serious public health concerns that are closely tied to the development and progression of type 2 diabetes.
These conditions are not just about appearance or weight — they represent a deeper imbalance in the body’s metabolic systems and are linked to a wide range of preventable diseases.
Tackling overweight and obesity is a critical step in reducing the burden of chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and certain cancers.
This page explores the definitions, causes, health impacts and management strategies for overweight and obesity — with a specific lens on how they affect diabetes prevention and care.
What do the terms “overweight” and “obese” mean?
Overweight and obesity both refer to excess body fat that may impair health. The difference lies in the degree of fat accumulation.
In adults, these conditions are typically assessed using the Body Mass Index (BMI) — a calculation based on height and weight:
Overweight: BMI between 25.0 and 29.9 Obesity: BMI of 30.0 or higherBMI is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in metres (kg/m²).
While BMI doesn’t directly measure fat, it remains a useful and widely adopted screening tool in clinical and public health settings.
In children and adolescents, weight categories are determined using BMI percentiles, which compare a child’s measurements to national norms for age and sex:
Overweight: 85th to 94th percentile Obesity: 95th percentile or higherIn both adults and children, central (abdominal) fat — measured by waist circumference — is particularly important, as it’s more strongly associated with metabolic diseases.
Body Mass Index (BMI) CalculatorHow do people become overweight or obese?
The causes of overweight and obesity are complex and involve a dynamic mix of biological, behavioural, environmental and social factors.
At the core, weight gain occurs when caloric intake consistently exceeds caloric expenditure. But this simple equation is influenced by a web of interconnected drivers.
Diet: High intake of energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods (such as processed snacks, sugary drinks and takeaway meals) contributes significantly to weight gain. Physical inactivity: Many people do not meet minimum movement guidelines, often due to sedentary jobs, long commutes, or digital lifestyles. Genetics and family history: Genetic factors can affect appetite, satiety, fat storage and metabolism. Hormonal and metabolic issues: Conditions like hypothyroidism, insulin resistance and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can increase susceptibility. Mental health and emotional eating: Stress, anxiety, depression and trauma can influence eating behaviours and physical activity levels. Socioeconomic factors: Lack of access to affordable healthy foods, safe outdoor spaces and health services makes prevention harder in some communities.Importantly, weight gain doesn’t happen overnight. It often develops over years of small imbalances and gradually ingrained habits.
Consequences of excess weight
Carrying excess weight affects nearly every system in the body and significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This is because excess fat, particularly around the abdominal organs, leads to insulin resistance — the condition where the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin.
Insulin resistance is the key driver of type 2 diabetes and can develop silently over many years.
It’s estimated that around 90% of people with type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese.
The relationship is so strong that managing weight is often the most effective way to prevent or even reverse early-stage type 2 diabetes.
But the consequences of obesity and overweight don’t stop there. People living with excess weight also face increased risk of:
Heart disease and stroke Hypertension (high blood pressure) Joint pain and osteoarthritis Obstructive sleep apnoea Fatty liver disease Certain types of cancer (e.g. breast, bowel, womb) Reproductive health issues (e.g. PCOS, infertility) Mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety and low self-esteemIt’s also important to note that not all people with type 2 diabetes are obese.
So-called “skinny type 2 diabetes” — where individuals appear slim but carry dangerous fat around their organs — is also a recognised form of metabolic disease.
How to reduce the risk of health complications?
Preventing overweight and obesity starts early — ideally in childhood — but it’s never too late to take action. The most effective prevention strategies are sustainable, realistic and address both diet and physical activity alongside emotional and environmental factors.
A balanced, whole-food diet is essential.
This includes a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats, while limiting refined carbohydrates, sugar and ultra-processed foods.
Education about portion sizes and label reading can be powerful tools for change.
Staying active is equally important.
The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week, plus strength-building exercises on two or more days per week.
Beyond diet and exercise, support systems — whether friends, family, community groups or health coaches — can help maintain motivation and accountability.
Speak to other people in the Diabetes ForumBehavioural tools like meal tracking, goal setting and digital platforms can also play a valuable role in sustaining change.
Managing overweight and obesity
Management strategies for overweight and obesity can range from self-led lifestyle adjustments to clinical interventions, depending on the individual’s needs and health risks.
Dietary change remains the first line of treatment. Whether following a low-carb approach, a calorie-controlled plan, or intermittent fasting, success depends on consistency and personal fit. Working with a registered dietitian or nutritionist can help tailor the right plan.
Exercise should be safe, achievable and enjoyable. This could mean walking more, joining a structured program, or using fitness apps and trackers to stay engaged.
For those with more significant weight challenges or obesity-related health conditions, medical interventions may be considered.
These include:
Prescription medications such as GLP-1 agonists (e.g. semaglutide) Weight loss surgery (e.g. gastric sleeve, gastric bypass) Digital behaviour change programmes that combine coaching, education and trackingAddressing mental and emotional factors is also crucial.
Behavioural therapy, CBT and group support can be helpful in identifying triggers for overeating and building healthier habits.
Regular check-ins — with a GP, weight management service, or digital programme — help maintain progress, adapt goals and prevent relapse.
Overweight and obesity are major contributors to the rising rates of type 2 diabetes in the UK and globally.
While these conditions are complex and influenced by many factors, they are not irreversible.
With education, support and evidence-based tools, people can take meaningful steps toward a healthier future.
For more information on diet strategies, digital support tools and treatment options, explore our guides on:
Low Carb Diet: Beginner’s Guide Low Calorie Diet and Type 2 Diabetes Semaglutide and GLP-1 Medications Managing Type 2 Diabetes with Lifestyle Change Read More Details
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