It is important to acknowledge that obesity is a chronic condition much like diabetes and high blood pressure. Therefore, there are no quick fix treatments. Have a conversation with your doctor to find the best treatment plan for you.
Treatment strategies for treating obesity include:
- Behavioral Change
Modifying certain behaviors and habits can help you make lifestyle changes that will help you lose and maintain a healthy weight. - Physical Activity
Physical activity is essential to maintaining a healthy weight. Individuals who are physically active tend to live longer and have lower risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, and some cancers. The CDC recommends 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (i.e. brisk walking) and muscle-strengthening activities (i.e. lifting weights, sit-ups, lunges) 2 days a week. - Dietary Change
Reducing calories and practicing healthier eating habits are important in preventing and overcoming obesity. Avoid drastic and unrealistic diet changes. There is no best weight-loss diet. Choose a diet that includes healthy foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole-grain carbohydrates, and lean protein – beans, lentils, soy, and lean meats. - Prescribed Weight-loss Medication
Your doctor may recommend a weight-loss medication if other methods of weight loss haven’t worked (i.e. diet and exercise). There are several medications approved by the FDA for weight-loss including orlistat (Xenical), lorcaserin (Belviq), phentermine and topiramate (Qsymia), buproprion and naltrexone (Contrave), and liraglutide (Saxenda). - Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery, also known as weight-loss surgery, is an option for those with severe obesity. Bariatric surgery limits the amount of food you are able to eat, decreases the absorption of food and calories, or both.