Excess Weight, Obesity, and Your Health
Losing weight may improve some weight-related health issues
For many people who carry excess weight, losing 5% to 15% of their total weight can improve some weight-related health issues.
For example someone who weighs 250 pounds might notice an improvement in some weight-related health issues if they lose 13 pounds or more.
Obesity may increase your risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
Losing weight can help your body function better and improve your ability to perform everyday activities, such as:
• Walking
• Climbing stairs
• Bending down or kneeling
• Carrying groceries
• Dressing and bathing
• Moderate to vigorous activity
What is obesity?
Obesity is a chronic, but treatable, disease associated with excess weight. For people living with obesity, there is more to weight management than just the pounds you can see.
People with a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30 kg/m2 are considered to have obesity. This can have a negative impact on your health. But there's good news: weight loss may improve some weight-related conditions.
How many people are affected by obesity?
There are approximately 2 in 5 adults in the US living with obesity. Losing weight and maintaining it is hard, but you and your health care provider can work on a plan to manage weight long term.
Knowing that there's a science behind weight loss can help you feel comfortable considering and discussing new treatment options for managing weight with your health care provider.
Partnering with your health care provider
Watch this short video from Dr. Kushner on what to expect from obesity care.
If you’re prepared to have this conversation with your health care provider, remain positive… things are likely to go well.
If you are comfortable and trust your health care provider, tell him or her how you feel. Tell him or her that it is not as simple as eating less and moving more. That there are multiple determinants when it comes to weight control and that partnering with someone to get support is vital. I would tell you there’s zero tolerance however for any shame or prejudice that goes on during the encounter.
Most health care providers are sensitive may not know how to bring up weight or be trained enough in weight management. If the health care provider is empathetic and concerned about your weight, that interaction should be positive. That partnering will lead to increased weight loss, long-term weight control and an improved therapeutic encounter with your health care provider. The bottom line is however, if you are uncomfortable with your health care provider, find someone else who you trust and is supportive.
And remember, good communication is a two-way street and if you’re prepared to have this conversation with your healthcare provider, remain positive… things are likely to go well.
Weight management starts here: what's your BMI?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measurement that can point to an unhealthy weight in adults. BMI is calculated using your body weight and height. Knowing your BMI can give you a place to start when talking with a health care provider about your weight.
