Dr. Patil's Diabetes, Thyroid & Hormone Clinic | Dr. Himanshu Patil
Weight loss and obesity
Weight Loss
Weight loss refers to the process of losing excess body weight, typically through a combination of calorie reduction, exercise, and lifestyle changes. It’s often aimed at improving health and fitness.
Obesity is a medical condition where an individual has an excessive amount of body fat, typically determined by a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. It increases the risk of various health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and joint issues.
Treatment for Weight Loss
Medical Treatment:
- Address underlying conditions: Treat diseases like hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or infections causing weight loss.
- Nutritional supplements: In cases of malnutrition, supplements may help restore lost weight.
- Medications: Appetite stimulants may be prescribed in some cases, especially when weight loss is due to medical conditions.
Lifestyle Changes:
- Balanced diet: Focus on nutrient-dense, calorie-rich foods like lean meats, healthy fats, and whole grains.
- Strength training: Building muscle mass can help restore healthy weight.
- Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy may help with psychological factors affecting weight loss, such as depression or eating disorders.
Treatment for Obesity
Dietary Changes:
- Calorie reduction: Adopting a calorie-controlled, balanced diet with portion control.
- Nutrient-dense foods: Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while reducing processed foods, sugars, and refined carbs.
Exercise:
- Physical activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week (e.g., walking, swimming, cycling) combined with strength training to build muscle and boost metabolism.
Behavioral Therapy:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A mental health treatment for developing healthier eating habits and managing emotional eating.
- Mindful eating: Paying attention to hunger cues and eating slowly to avoid overeating.
Medical Interventions:
- Medications: Prescription drugs like orlistat or GLP-1 agonists (e.g., semaglutide) can help reduce appetite and fat absorption.
- Bariatric surgery: For individuals with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40 or ≥ 35 with related health issues), procedures like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy may be considered.
Support Systems:
- Weight loss groups: Joining support groups or working with a nutritionist or personal trainer can provide accountability and encouragement.