dangers of obesity - medical weight loss, Primary Care Ashland, KY

Obesity, being overweight, and fat-loss are words that echo on just about every weight-loss and fitness platform on social media. We are bombarded with the need to be fit and that thin equals good enough. For some, losing weight is easy, but for others, combatting the battle of the bulge is an ongoing struggle and seems like a hopeless task.

We will take a look at what it means to be overweight or obese, the causes and risks linked to obesity, and how your primary care family doctor can help you win the battle and to lose weight effectively and in a lasting way.

What is Obesity?

The word obesity is brandished around by just about every weight loss company wishing to line their pockets with gold, whilst the person who is obese is left confused and overwhelmed by all the options out there to lose weight.

Social media has greatly influenced our perception of body image. Even just a few extra pounds can make us feel insecure, causing us to search for quick solutions like “fat-burner supplements” that promise to magically melt away the weight or to try and “run” it off, as mile after mile of tar stretches underneath our sneakers.

Obesity is not just having gained a few extra pounds from overindulging on a week’s holiday on a cruise liner in the Caribbean. Obesity does not happen overnight either. You don’t go to bed with the perfect BMI and wake up the next morning, like a washed-up whale. It happens over time and if weight gain is left unchecked, it can lead to obesity.

Obesity is a medical condition characterized by excess body fat that can negatively affect a person’s health. It is typically defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, although it can also be diagnosed based on other factors such as waist circumference and body fat percentage.

So What Is Meant By BMI?

BMI, which stands for Body Mass Index, is a way to measure how much body fat you have, based on your height and your weight. It is like a quick check to see if your weight is healthy for your height. It can help to differentiate between being mildly overweight or off-the-charts obesity.

To calculate your BMI, you divide your weight in kilograms by your height in meters, squared. (This can sound quite daunting to those that hated math at school, but your doctor will help you measure your BMI if you are confused.)

A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9, is considered a healthy range.

If it’s between 25 and 29.9, you may be overweight;

If it’s over 30, you may be considered obese.

Although BMI is a good gauge for your overall weight status, keep in mind that BMI isn’t always super accurate, as it doesn’t take into account factors like muscle mass or body composition.

What Causes Obesity?

Some medical conditions: An underactive thyroid gland, hormone imbalance, or Cushing’s syndrome, can contribute to weight gain. However, when these conditions are correctly diagnosed and treated, they should be less of a barrier to weight loss.
Some medicines: Steroids, epilepsy, and diabetes medications, and some used for mental illness, like antidepressants and schizophrenia medications, can also contribute to weight gain.
Calories: Food gives us energy, which is measured in units called calories. An average man needs 2,500 calories per day, and an average woman needs 2,000 calories per day to stay healthy. Eating unhealthy food can make it easy to consume too many calories, for example, a burger, fries, and milkshake can have 1,500 calories in just one meal. If people eat more calories than they need and don’t get enough exercise, their body stores the excess as fat
Diet: Obesity and being overweight can be caused by diet and lifestyle factors. These include eating too much processed or fast food, drinking too much alcohol, eating out frequently, consuming larger portions, drinking too many sugary drinks, and comfort eating. Society has made it harder to maintain a healthy diet due to the low cost and convenience of high-calorie food, which is heavily advertised.
Exercise: Lack of physical activity is another essential factor in causing obesity. When you do not use the energy provided by food, the extra energy is stored by the body as fat. To stay healthy, adults should do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week, like cycling or fast walking. This can be split into smaller periods, like exercising for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.

Is Being Obese A Big Deal For My Health?

Obesity can be a silent killer and whilst you may feel healthy, obesity can be chipping away at your health. Being obese can increase the risk of developing a range of health problems and conditions, including:

Type 2 diabetes
High blood pressure
Heart disease and stroke
Sleep apnea
Certain types of cancer
Joint problems and osteoarthritis
Fatty liver disease
Reproductive problems
Depression and anxiety
Reduced life expectancy
Gall stones

How Do I Lose Weight?

Losing weight when you are obese, can feel like an insurmountable task, and it is not surprising that so many people can lose heart and give up, very early on in their weight loss journey. It can be extremely discouraging when stubborn fat will just not leave and no amounts of magic potions or fad diets help.

Here are a few tips on where to start:

Focus on healthy eating: Instead of trying a restrictive fad diet, focus on making healthy choices. Try to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and junk food.
Portion control: Even healthy foods can cause weight gain if we eat too much of them. Try using smaller plates and measuring your food portions to make sure you’re not overeating.
Exercise regularly: Exercise is a great way to burn calories and improve your overall health. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. You can start with something as simple as taking a brisk walk around your neighborhood.
Drink plenty of water: Drinking water can help you feel full and avoid overeating. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day.
Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can lead to weight gain, so try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

Remember, losing weight takes time and effort, and there are no shortcuts. But a healthy diet and regular exercise can be a good start in achieving your weight loss goals in a safe and sustainable way.

Doctor, Doctor, Can You Please Help Me?

Now, let’s talk about how primary care family doctor, Dr. Basedow from Azalea Health and Skin treatment center, can help you lose weight. Here are some ways in which he can help you achieve your goals in weight loss:5

Create a personalized weight loss plan that fits your individual needs and circumstances.
This plan can include exercise recommendations, dietary changes, and medication if required.
Can help you set achievable weight loss goals, track your progress, and provide the motivation and support your need to stay on track.
Identify any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your weight gain.
Certain medical conditions like an underactive thyroid gland or Cushing’s syndrome can cause weight gain, and treating them can be a crucial part of your weight loss journey

To Sum It Up

Obesity is a serious health concern that can lead to several health problems. Losing weight takes time and effort, and there are no shortcuts. Sometimes losing weight can be very daunting and overwhelming, however, Dr. Basedow and his dedicated team can help you achieve your weight loss goals. They can provide you with a personalized plan, support, and medical guidance to help you shed those extra pounds and improve your overall health. So, if you’re struggling with trying to lose weight, don’t hesitate to reach out to Azalea Health and Skin Treatment Center, and take the first step towards a healthier you!

Your Health is Important to Us

If you’re looking for a trusted Family Doctor to help you with your wellness needs, consider scheduling an appointment with Dr. Basedow at Azalea Health and Skin Treatment Center. He and his team are dedicated to providing personalized care that helps you achieve optimal health.

Located at 1000 Ashland Drive, Suite 303, Ashland, KY 41101, Dr. Basedow at Azalea Health and Skin Treatment Center offers services to patients residing in and around Greenup, Worthington, Hamilton, Russell, Raceland, Wurtland, Bellefonte, Ironville, Flatwoods, Ironton, Coal Grove, Westwood, Perry, Catlettsburg, South Point, Ceredo, Fayette, Cannonsburg, Union, Huntington, Westmoreland, Proctorville, East Pea Ridge, and Barboursville.