Weight, Wellness and What They Mean for You

Gained extra pounds this holiday season? You are not alone! With obesity rates rising from 30.5% to 41.9% among the adult population between 1999 and 2020, it's clear that addressing weight issues is more important than ever. This increase, particularly noticeable since the COVID-19 lockdowns, has been compounded by changes in household dynamics, working conditions, reduced travel, and escalating mental health concerns.

To help you navigate these complexities, there are physicians who specialize in medical weight loss. The recent availability of new prescription medications for weight management highlights the importance of seeking advice and care from a specialized, certified medical team. These specialized doctors and others clinicians typically take a personalized approach because, just like calories, every individual's journey toward a healthier weight is unique.

It's essential to understand that being overweight or obese is still primarily defined by Body Mass Index (BMI), but factors like waist circumference and body fat percentage also play a critical role in weight management. With new scientific developments emerging, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. You might have questions like how to start a weight loss and healthy lifestyle program, where to find help, or whether it's safe to start a new exercise regimen. Your physician is available to listen to your concerns without judgment and offer individualized support during your weight loss journey.

Treating overweight and obesity—which are chronic, progressive, relapsing, and treatable disorders with strong neuropsychological and behavioral components—is not just about reducing numbers on a scale. It's about improving overall health and well-being. The benefits of weight management include:

1. Reduced risk of premature mortality from various causes.
2. Improved anatomical, physiological, inflammatory, and metabolic status.
3. Enhanced cardiac health, better management of sleep apnea, and improved joint health.
4. Lowered risk for first and recurrent cancers.
5. Overall enhancement of quality of life, including improvements in body image, alleviation of depression, and reducing the risk of obesity and metabolic disorders in future generations.

Looking to lose weight safely and effectively and improve your quality of life? The Weight Loss and Wellness Clinic at Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare offers a community dedicated to supporting you in achieving and maintaining optimal health. We hope you will join us in this vital journey toward wellness, where each step you take is a step toward a healthier, happier you. For more information, please call 909/596-7733, ext. 3800.