Understanding Obesity
What Is Obesity?
Obesity is the condition of having excess body fat, which may sound simple, but obesity is actually a complex disease. More than 40% of American adults have obesity or severe obesity, a rate that has steadily increased over the last 20 years. Many public health organizations have declared obesity to be an epidemic, and obesity experts who are alarmed by the mortality rates associated with the disease have declared it “the forefront of concern for public health action”. The key to fighting obesity is understanding it and the good news is that we have the tools we need to live healthier lives.
I’ve Been Diagnosed With Obesity—Now What?
Receiving an obesity diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it is important to keep in mind that you are in control of your health. There are many ways to incorporate new habits into your life to lose weight and reduce your risk of obesity-related health conditions. If you have already tried diet and exercise plans without success, ask your doctor about medical weight loss plans or weight loss surgery options.
How Do Doctors Diagnose Obesity?
Doctors typically use Body Mass Index (BMI) measurements, along with medical history, and other assessments, to determine obesity. BMI is a screening tool that estimates a patient’s body fat and health risk according to their weight and height.
What Causes Obesity?
It is generally understood that an excess of calories causes weight gain, but there are many factors that influence how people receive nutrition, how their bodies process food, and how they burn calories.
- Genetics can influence the way a person gains or loses weight.
- Diet and the types of foods we eat have a strong impact on our health.
- Activity Level People with very physically active lifestyles may have a lower rate of obesity.
- Environment the cultural norms that you grow up with, along with the attitudes of your friends and family can influence your approach to diet and activity.
Obesity Related Health Conditions
There are a number of health conditions that are associated with obesity.
- Cancer
- Depression and anxiety
- Gallbladder disease
- Heart Disease
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Joint pain
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
- Osteoarthritis
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
Is There a Cure for Obesity?
There is no quick fix for obesity, but the value of bariatric surgery has become apparent as more studies emerge showing that dieting alone does not work to cure obesity. Procedures such as gastric bypass and gastric sleeve have been proven to provide long-term weight loss success and lower patients’ rates of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. For patients who are not interested in surgical options or are not candidates for surgery, medically supervised weight loss plans or other non-surgical options are available.
Bariatric Surgery for Obesity
There are several types of bariatric surgery that can help patients reach a healthier weight and a more active lifestyle and these procedures can be life-saving when dieting alone does not work.
Learn More About Weight Loss Surgery Options
Healthier Eating
Patients with obesity can commit to weight loss and make a positive impact on overall health by adopting more nutritious eating habits. Each person has individual nutrition needs and working with a registered dietitian (RD) can guide you in healthier choices. In general, eating fresh fruits and vegetables and lean proteins is recommended, while foods that are fried, processed, or high in saturated fats or added sugars should be avoided.
Learn More About Determining Your Calorie Needs
Exercise and Obesity
Physical activity is an important part of overall health. Working out can be a challenge for people with obesity, but finding an exercise routine that works for you can be empowering. Check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
Learn More About Exercise and Obesity
Prevent, Treat, and Manage Obesity
Incorporating healthy eating habits and physical activity can help you prevent or manage obesity, but you do not have to face an obesity diagnosis alone. Including your friends and family in your lifestyle changes can provide the support you need to stick to healthy habits. Working with professionals, like a Registered Dietitian, Doctor, or Bariatric Surgeon, can help you understand your options and find a treatment plan that works for you.
The TLC Surgery Doctors have either authored or reviewed and approved this content.