Understanding Obesity

Obesity is a term used to describe the condition of having excessive body fat. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that over 93 million Americans, or almost 40% of the U.S. population, are affected by obesity1. The causes, outcomes, and effects of obesity are very complex. Diagnosis of obesity is typically based upon body mass index (BMI). The Weight Loss Clinic at DFW Bariatric Institute specializes in obesity treatment for patients in the Dallas, Texas area.

What Causes Obesity?

Obesity rarely has a singular cause, as there are a variety of factors that can contribute to obesity. Some elements that can lead to obesity include:

  • Diet Excess calorie intake, especially in a diet abundant in added sugars, fried foods, and simple carbohydrates, can directly contribute to obesity.
  • Physical Activity Level A sedentary lifestyle, in which fewer calories are used by the body than are taken in, can cause obesity and a lack of physical activity can lead to health complications.
  • Medical Conditions and Medications Certain diseases, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, and some prescription medications, including antidepressants and corticosteroids, can cause weight gain.
  • Environment Even when individuals know the factors that contribute to obesity, it can be difficult to make lifestyle changes if they are not supported by their family or community.
  • Genetics Although lifestyle choices are the strongest causations of obesity, some researchers believe there is a genetic component that can predispose individuals to gain weight.

obesity negative effect

Health Effects of Obesity

Obesity can increase the likelihood of developing many life-threatening diseases and conditions. The negative health conditions that often occur with, or are complicated by, obesity are called comorbidities. Obesity comorbidities include:2

  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Certain Types of Cancer, including colon, kidney, gallbladder, and liver
  • Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
  • Heart Disease
  • Gallbladder Disease
  • Sleep Apnea
  • Infertility
  • Joint Pain

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BMI 40-49.9 morbid obesity
BMI > 50 super morbid obesity

Obesity Prevention Tips

Tips to Prevent or Manage Obesity

  • Plan Healthy Meals and Snacks It is easier to make smart choices when you plan ahead. There are many diet plans that tout weight loss, but most medical professionals agree on the advantages of a diet rich in vegetables and lean protein with some low-fat dairy, fruits and whole grains and very few processed foods. Get our free meal planning template or use the DFW six day meal plan for inspiration.
  • Track Your Food Intake Planning to eat well is a great foundation for preventing or managing obesity, but how often have you planned to eat healthy only to go off track? Keeping a food journal or using an app like myfitnesspal can help you stay accountable and give you a true picture of your diet.
  • Stay Hydrated Adequate water intake can control appetite and improve energy. Keep a water bottle handy and choose water, seltzer, or unsweetened iced tea. Avoid sugary drinks, like soda and juice, which can add empty calories, and alcohol which can be dehydrating.
  • Get Active The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend adults perform 150 minutes per week3 of aerobic activity and strength training 2 days per week. Depending on your fitness level, this could be walking or a more challenging workout routine. Find something that you enjoy and you’ll be more likely to stick with it.
  • Build Community Share your goals and plan healthy meals and activities with friends and family. You can seek additional support in online communities. Check out the DFW Facebook and Instagram for tips and motivation and visit our blog for healthy recipes.

Understanding An Obesity Diagnosis

Many people struggle to lose weight, but for people seeking to lose 5 or 10 pounds that goal may be for aesthetic reasons. For people with obesity, losing weight can be critically important to maintain or restore health. If your height and weight is indicative of obesity, but you have not been diagnosed by a medical professional, you should schedule an appointment with your primary care physician so they can evaluate your overall health.

If you have been diagnosed with obesity, you may be wondering what steps to take. Remember that an obesity diagnosis does not indicate failure on your part. The science behind metabolism, nutrition, and weight gain is complex. The best thing you can do is to focus on your health and follow any advice that your doctor has given you. If you are unsuccessful at weight loss even while adhering to diet and exercise guidelines, then it may be time to see an obesity medicine specialist.

Medical Treatments for Obesity

DFW Obesity Specialist
Obesity is prevalent enough in the United States that over 20 million people may be candidates for bariatric surgery. However, fewer than 1% of them undergo weight loss surgery.4 If patients had a better understanding of the myths and facts about weight loss treatment, then more of them may seek help. How do you know when it is time to consult a weight loss doctor for obesity treatment? If you are concerned about the health effects of obesity, a consultation with an experienced weight loss surgeon can help you understand your options. At DFW Bariatric Institute, we offer a range of non-surgical and surgical weight loss options as part of our commitment to comprehensive, personalized care.

Contact DFW Bariatric Institute for Obesity Treatment

If you are looking for a solution to obesity, the weight loss specialists at DFW Bariatric Institute may be able to help you find a path to weight loss success. Fill out our free insurance check form or contact us to schedule a consultation at one of our convenient locations in Frisco, Colleyville, or Rockwall, Texas.

References:
1 https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db288.pdf
2 https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/files/docs/guidelines/prctgd_c.pdf
3 https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm
4 https://asmbs.org/resources/estimate-of-bariatric-surgery-numbers

Patient Testimonials


Janet S.

Lost 93 pounds*

"93 pounds later, I have a whole new life. I’ve gone from a size 24 down to 10-12. I no longer have high blood pressure or high cholesterol. My knees, which were in sad shape before surgery, don’t hurt anymore. I joined a gym and participate in water aerobics and a latin impact aerobics class. My whole life has changed. I have much more confidence in myself and love to be with people."

Vivian P.

Lost 140 pounds*

“First off….this surgery will give you your life back. It is a total life changing surgery and I feel like I owe DFW Bariatric my life since they restored mine to me. My weight ballooned up to 273 lbs before my surgery. I have successfully lost and maintained a 140 lb weight loss… This is the most amazing journey that anyone could ever take and the DFW Bariatric Institute staff will all be there to hold your hand and lead you down the road to your success.”

Sherrie M.

Lost 110 pounds*

“I am currently 29 years old and weigh 130 lbs. Before surgery I weighed almost 240 lbs…This is the best thing I have done with my life and would do it again today. It changed my life drastically. My surgeon said to me, 'I can do 50% for you and give you the surgery, but the other 50% is up to you. Your eating, your exercise, your total outlook on life make up the other 50%. And what you want from the surgery is what you will get, and the life you will gain.'”

John E.

Lost 90 pounds*

“I went to a seminar and left there with complete ease, feeling like everyone cared about me and my health. On first office visit I was totally impressed…I never felt rushed in the office, and always felt everyone cared. My surgery was completed and I am now down 90 pounds…The biggest part of recovery comes from the encouragement DFW Bariatric gives. Everyone is always positive and takes the time to explain things in a positive way.”

Kathy D.

Lost 161 pounds*

“There are no words to express the amount of change that weight loss surgery has brought to my life. I am a 54 year old female. There were so many things I was unable to do before the surgery that I blamed on age. It wasn’t my age at all, it was the weight. I am 30 again…The day of my surgery, I weighed 299 pounds. Today I weigh 138 and wear a size 6…I feel so good about myself now. The surgery saved my life!”

Brian S.

Lost 130 pounds*

“After losing 130 pounds, I feel like I have a new lease on life. I was able to stop all of my diabetes, high blood pressure, and my cholesterol medicines. I have always had chronic knee problems and now I am able to run three miles per day without any pain. If I had a choice of doing this surgery again or not, I would definitely do it again. I feel that by having the surgery it not only gave me my life back but it also saved my life.”

Lorna Q.

Lost 107 pounds*

"I have lost the astonishing amount of 107 pounds in less than a year. I feel like I have my life back and I am in control again. All my family and friends are always telling me that I look happier than before and they are right, I am much, much happier than before. I have to thank DFW Bariatric and my husband for helping me throughout this very emotional and amazing journey. I do not regret at all having the surgery, it is one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life.”

Danielle L.

Lost 154 pounds*

“My outlook on life was so different before having my weight loss surgery. I was taking medicine for diabetes, high blood pressure, and depression, and my back, legs, and shoulders hurt all the time which kept me from sleeping. My start weight was 298 pounds. And I am now 144. I’m no longer on any type of medications. My body is the best shape I have ever been in. I am so happy to be where I am today mentally and physically. With my hard work and dedication and with the aid of DFW Bariatric, I am where I want to be. I trust this team with all my heart.”

Dennis H.

Lost 170 pounds*

“At 365 pounds, I was medicated for high blood pressure, diabetes, joint inflammation, and high cholesterol…I was a living example of morbid obesity. I knew then that it was time to do something with my weight…It was not easy to get through all of the hoops that my health plan demanded, but the DFW Bariatric team helped me every step of the way. Today I weigh 195 pounds and feel great! From the time I left the hospital after surgery I have been free from all prescription medications. I can never thank this team enough for giving me back my life."