Over the past few decades, the number of obese people in the U.S. has increased dramatically from 13.4 percent in 1960 to 22.3 percent in 1994. Being overweight increases the risk for a number of health problems.
Overweight people are at higher risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
In addition, obesity increases the risk of developing gallbladder disease, osteoarthritis, gout, respiratory problems, sleep apnea, and certain types of cancer. During periods of psychological stress, food can be a comfort and a distraction causing many people to gain weight. Studies have shown dieters who endure stress are at high risk of overeating and regaining lost weight or gaining even more. Some health care providers recommend stress reduction or relaxation techniques to help patients lose weight and maintain their weight loss. Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine in Texas want to find out if measuring body temperature and doing relaxation exercises can hold back the urge to overeat.