Obesity and Weight Loss Management
Dr. Shima Hadidchi is a family practitioner practicing in Wichita Falls, TX. Dr. Hadidchi specializes in comprehensive health care for people of all ages. In addition to diagnosing and treating illnesses, family practitioners also put focus on preventative care with routine checkups, tests, and personalized coaching on... more
Obesity means too much body fat, overweight refers to a weight above the "normal" range, with normal defined on the basis of actuarial data. This is determined by calculating the body mass index (BMI, defined as the weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared). Overweight is defined as a BMI of 25 to 29.9 kg/m2; obesity is defined as a BMI of ≥30 kg/m2. Severe obesity is defined as a BMI of ≥40 kg/m2 or ≥35 kg/m2 in the presence of comorbidities. Obesity is associated with a significant increase in mortality and many health risks, including diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart attack and stroke, joint problems, and sleep disorders.
The good news is that you can take steps to lose weight, and even losing some weight can make a big difference to your health and how you feel. As a start, aim to lose 1-2 pounds a week. Adults who are overweight or obese should try to lose 5% to 10% of their current weight over 6 months.
The initial management of individuals who would benefit from weight loss is a comprehensive lifestyle intervention: a combination of diet, exercise, and behavioral modification. All patients who would benefit from weight loss should receive counseling on diet, exercise, and goals for weight loss. The behavioral modification component facilitates adherence to diet and exercise regimens and includes regular self-monitoring of food intake, physical activity, and weight.
Your doctor may offer medication if your BMI is above 30 or a BMI between 27-29.9 with weight-related issues. There are also procedures available such as placing devices or bariatric surgery if your BMI is above 40 or a BMI of 35-39.9 with a serious health problem.
Please consult your doctor if you are ready for a weight loss program.
