About Obesity

According to the CDC, over a third of the United States population is obese and a full two thirds suffer from excess weight. By any measure, the weight problem in the United States is an epidemic. Excess weight and obesity creates immeasurable costs to society and the individual, both monetarily and in lost opportunity.

How Do You Know If You Are Obese?

The most commonly used measure of ideal weight is the Body Mass Index, or BMI. By comparing height to weight, the BMI offers a numerical snapshot of your health in relation to weight. You can see your BMI by using the calculator on this website. The BMI is only an estimate and while it is used by the FDA and weight loss practices alike, it alone should not be used as a diagnostic tool.

Waist size is also an indicator of the health risks associated with excess weight. There is no uniform guideline as to acceptable waist size in relation to height. However, data shows that men and women with waist sizes of over 40 and 35 inches respectively, have an increased risk of several diseases.

Please remember that each of us is unique in our body shape and size. You should speak to your physician about obesity and the best weight loss options for your individual circumstance.

What Can Be Done?

Most of us already know that losing weight is not easy. While we all hope to do so through diet and exercise, this is not always possible. Indeed, diets and exercise often fail and patients end up regaining weight – sometimes more than they lost in the first place. Many weight loss pills and supplements, not approved or overseen by the FDA, can be ineffective or even dangerous.

Medically supervised weight loss programs are also available to qualifying patients. These programs are usually 30, 60 or 90 days in length. Medically supervised weight loss offers the support and guidance of a qualified team, improving the chances of long-term weight loss.

Bariatric surgery is also an option for patients who meet certain strict criteria. Also, it is the patient’s responsibility to change their lifestyle through healthy diet and exercise after surgery and for the rest of their lives.