Obesity is a major health problem affecting millions of people worldwide. It is a condition where a person has an excessive amount of body fat, which can lead to various health complications such as heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer. While genetics can play a role in the development of obesity, Lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise also play a significant role.
Diet and exercise play a vital role in maintaining a healthy weight. Physical activity helps burn calories, increase muscle mass, and improve overall health. At least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per day for adults.
Ways to Lose Weight
While lifestyle interventions such as diet and exercise can help prevent and manage obesity, medical interventions may be necessary for severe cases. Medical interventions for weight loss are options that individuals with obesity may consider when lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, have not been successful in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. These interventions may include medication, surgery, or both, and should be approached under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Medications
Prescription weight-loss medications work in different ways, such as by suppressing appetite, blocking the absorption of fat, or increasing the feeling of fullness. These medications are usually prescribed to individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above, or with a BMI of 27 or above if there are other health conditions present, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.
GLP-1 is class of medication that is prescribed to individuals with a BMI of 30 or above, or with a BMI of 27 or above with other health conditions. It works by reducing appetite and increasing the feeling of fullness. Liraglutide is usually given by injection once a day, and studies have shown that it can help individuals lose up to 10% of their initial weight.
Surgery
There are several types of bariatric surgeries, such as gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, and gastric banding. Each type of surgery has its own risks and benefits, and the decision on which type of surgery is best suited for an individual should be made under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Bariatric surgery has been shown to be effective in achieving and maintaining weight loss. Studies have shown that individuals who undergo bariatric surgery can lose up to 60% of their excess weight, and that weight loss can lead to improvements in obesity-related health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
Medical interventions for weight loss should be approached under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Medications and bariatric surgery are options that can be considered for individuals with obesity who have not been successful in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through lifestyle changes alone. These interventions have been shown to be effective in achieving and maintaining weight loss, but the decision on which option is best suited for an individual should be made based on their individual health status and goals.
Get help from Brentwood Primary Care and Dr. Shreya Khatri
Brentwood Primary Care's board-certified primary care physician, Dr. Shreya Khatri is pleased to provide her patients with high-quality care. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, submit a consultation request or call our clinic at 925-471-4223 today!
