Obesity is a serious health concern that can result in many other health complications. In this article, we’ll discuss obesity and explore how the disease goes beyond mere body weight concerns. We’ll also examine its underlying causes, symptoms, and diagnostic procedures. By the end, you’ll gain valuable insights into effective weight management strategies, empowering you to take proactive steps toward a healthier lifestyle.
If you have further questions about effective ways to tackle weight loss, contact Dr. Blake Movitz at Detroit Weight Loss Center in Southfield or Commerce Charter Twp, Michigan.
Obesity is a complex disease that’s defined by a person having an excessive amount of body fat. Sadly, it goes beyond cosmetic concerns. Obesity can also increase the risk of many other diseases and health problems. These can include cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance and diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, liver disease, and certain cancers.
Obesity is a complex disease with many contributing factors. However, generally speaking, obesity occurs when you consistently take in more calories than you can burn through physical activity and exercise. This excess energy is then stored as fat.
The contributing factors that can lead to obesity include the following:
Your body mass index or BMI usually defines obesity. BMI is calculated by multiplying your weight in pounds by 703, then dividing this value by your height in inches, and then dividing again by your height in inches. Alternatively, you can divide your weight in kilograms by height in meters squared.
You can also use an online BMI calculator to get your BMI.
Your BMI will determine your weight status:
Obesity can be subdivided into further categories:
Those of Asian descent may have an increased risk of health problems with a BMI of 23 or higher.
BMI can provide a reasonable estimate of BMI; however, muscular athletes may have a high BMI without having excess body fat.
Another indicator of weight-related health problems is waist circumference. Men with a waist circumference of 40 inches (102 centimeters) and women with a waist measurement of over 35 inches (89 centimeters) are at higher risk.
Another test that could be used is to measure body fat percentage.
You should see a weight loss specialist in Detroit or the surrounding area if you’re concerned about your weight or weight-related health problems. Be sure to ask your healthcare professional about obesity management. You and your doctor can evaluate your health risks and discuss your weight-loss options.
To diagnose obesity, healthcare professionals typically conduct a thorough assessment, which may include:
The goal of obesity treatment is to help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight, thereby improving your overall health and reducing the risk of obesity-related complications like heart disease. The first goal is to assist you in losing some excess weight. It is often recommended that you try to lose 5 to 10% of your total body weight.
Treating obesity typically involves a multidisciplinary approach. This could most likely include some extreme lifestyle changes, taking weight-loss medications, or even requiring a certain type of bariatric surgery.
The first step is always to try making lifestyle changes. These changes may involve the following:
The Coaching Corner at Detroit Weight Loss Center can help with nutritional guidance and virtual personal coaching to help you stick to the necessary lifestyle changes.
Dr. Movitz can provide FDA-approved weight-loss medications to assist you in your efforts to lose weight.
If you are finding it hard to lose weight despite lifestyle changes, weight loss surgery may be considered. Dr. Movitz can help you evaluate the available options for bariatric surgery with you. Procedures include gastric bypass, gastric sleeve surgery, single anastomosis duodenoileostomy with sleeve gastrectomy (SADIS), or duodenal switch.
Are you ready to take control of your health? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Movitz at Detroit Weight Loss Center to explore personalized strategies for managing obesity and achieving lasting well-being.
Our team of medical weight loss professionals in Commerce Charter Township and Southfield, MI, are ready to give you the care you’re looking for. Contact us today!
Medically reviewed by Dr. Blake Movitz, MD, FACS
Dr. Blake Movitz
Fellowship trained from the Mayo Clinic in Minimally Invasive Advanced GI Surgery, Complex Endoscopy and Bariatric Surgery.
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“I highly recommend Dr. Movitz for his exceptional and comprehensive approach to healthcare. He meticulously reviewed all past tests and considered every aspect of my case then provided me with a well-rounded plan of action. He is truly a knowledgeable, caring, and personable professional.” Carol W.