Why Weight?
There has been a lot of attention on our growing obesity epidemic. While many reasons have been cited for the increase in rates of overweight and obesity in Canadians, it is a complex issue likely resulting from a combination of our sedentary lifestyles, highly available processed foods, lack of nutritional literacy and genetics.
Perhaps the largest shift in our thinking has been that obesity is a chronic disease and not a matter of only personal responsibility. The second shift is the recognition that weight loss is not easy. The old adage of calories in and calories out is an oversimplification.
The medical profession as well as policy makers and insurers have been a bit slow to adapt to this new understanding. If you struggle with weight and obesity, know that there are options. Canadian Obesity, formerly known as the Canadian Obesity Network, is a charitable non-profit group that advocates for an understanding of obesity and for research and treatment.
Here are some tips in advocating for yourself and understanding treatment options:
- Do not accept that diet and exercise alone will be the answer. You may need help and it is alright to ask for it.
- Do not discount the role of surgery. Surgical options exist and are largely covered. Your primary care provider can put in a referral online at the Ontario Bariatric Network to see if you qualify. Criteria include your body mass index (BMI) and any comorbidities you might have.
- Avoid fad diets!!! They do not work and are unhealthy.
- There are also medication options. Discussing them is beyond the scope of this but talk to your primary care provider.
- Love yourself at any weight!!! Reasons to lose weight are for your health but do not judge your self-worth by the number on the scale.
Finally, don’t weight and start the conversation today!
Dr. Bhooma Bhayana is a family physician in London and the mother of two young men and proud grandmother of three! She continues to find wonder and enjoyment in family practice despite more than 30 years on the job!
