In Canada, approximately 30% of the population is considered obese, and another 35.5% were classified as “overweight.” This indicates that addressing obesity is an important public health priority, and there are a variety of ways to support individuals affected by this condition.
What Is Obesity?
Obesity is a condition characterized by an excess amount of body fat. The medical community generally considers obesity to be a chronic disease. The nature of this disease is that it can contribute to a reduced quality of life and impact overall health. This is because obesity may increase the risk of developing several serious medical conditions. It can also affect mental health, sometimes leading to challenges such as low self-esteem.
Is Obesity a Disease?
Obesity is a prevalent disease in Canada, with roughly 3 out of 10 adults diagnosed with the condition. Historically, obesity was often misunderstood as solely the result of personal willpower or lifestyle choices. However, current medical understanding supports classifying obesity as a disease because body fat accumulation can occur for reasons beyond just calorie intake or physical activity levels.
For instance, increased body fat can affect metabolic pathways and disrupt the body’s normal signals for hunger, satiety, and fullness. These disruptions may create conditions that encourage further fat accumulation.
What Causes Obesity?
The most common cause of obesity is consuming more calories than the body requires to maintain its functions. This imbalance can happen for various reasons, including:
- Medications: Some medications may contribute to increased appetite or weight gain, such as steroids, certain antidepressants, beta-blockers, diabetes medications, and anti-seizure drugs.
- Disability: Children and adults with physical or learning disabilities may face a higher risk of obesity due to physical limitations and potential lack of tailored community resources.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, including polycystic ovary syndrome and metabolic syndrome, may be associated with weight gain. Additionally, mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression can influence eating behaviors, often encouraging the consumption of high-calorie comfort foods.
- Stress: Stress can lead to higher cortisol production, which may influence hunger signals and increase cravings for foods high in fat and sugar.
- Lack of Physical Activity: Spending more time engaged in sedentary activities, such as screen time, instead of physical movement, may contribute to fat accumulation.
- Genetics: Research has identified genes that may increase susceptibility to obesity, meaning that some individuals may have a genetic predisposition.
- Lack of Sleep: Insufficient sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate hunger and fullness, reducing the body’s natural ability to control appetite.
What Is Class 3 Obesity?
Class 3 obesity, previously known as “morbid obesity,” is diagnosed when a person has a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher. This level of obesity often coincides with increased risks for heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and other health conditions. While class 3 obesity can present serious health challenges, healthcare providers can offer treatments and support to help manage the condition.
A Modern Approach: GLP1 Supplements
One approach in medical science to support weight management involves medications such as GLP1 receptor agonists. These medications are sometimes prescribed by physicians for patients with diabetes or excess body fat and have been studied for their potential to aid weight loss. GLP1 supplements can help increase feelings of fullness after eating, slow digestion to reduce glucose release, decrease glucagon release that raises blood sugar, and enhance insulin activity to improve energy use.
It is important to note that GLP1 medications should only be used under medical supervision, and individual results may vary. Further research continues to evaluate the long-term benefits and safety of these treatments.
Additional Resources for Obesity Support
If you are seeking support from a community that emphasizes body positivity and provides education and advocacy related to obesity, Obesity Matters offers various resources, including:
- Patient support programs
- Clinical trial opportunities
- Insurance support resources
- Informational webinars
If you are interested in finding a supportive community and access to educational materials, consider contacting Obesity Matters for more information.
Disclaimer: The information provided by Obesity Matters is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any treatment, medication, or lifestyle changes related to obesity or other health conditions. Obesity Matters does not guarantee specific outcomes or results from any treatments or interventions mentioned. Individual experiences may vary. This content does not replace professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice.
