Obesity

Introduction

Obesity is a very common problem in Australia and the western world, affecting 2 thirds of adults and an increasing percentage of children and adolescents. It is defined by having a body mass index (BMI = weight(kg) divided by height(m)2) over 25 kg/m2.

Obesity Causes

There are many causes of obesity, the biggest being calorie excess/dietary changes and decreased physical activity over the last 70 years. This is best described as a diet high in ultra-processed ‘foods’ that are full of refined carbohydrate (sugar and starch), un-natural fats and chemical ingredients. These foods cause high insulin levels, which then cause weight gain and constant hunger.

Other causes include:

inadequate fibre and fermented food intake (gut microbiome health).
inadequate quality sleep.
inadequate physical activity, leading to poor cellular and mitochondrial health.
inadequate outdoors time (sunlight, fresh air, exposure to nature).
busy lifestyles/overwhelmed cognitive bandwidth.

Symptoms

Symptoms of being overweight include:

severely decreased life expectancy and quality of life (‘healthspan’).
shortness of breath and fatigue.
reflux/heartburn.
poor mobility, stiffness and sore joints (especially back, hips, knees, ankles).
sexual dysfunction.
headaches.

Diseases associated with being overweight that are cured or greatly improved by Weight Loss Surgery:

Hypertension (high blood pressure) and high cholesterol.
Fatty liver disease (NAFLD), type II Diabetes, metabolic syndrome.
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA).
Reflux and Hiatus Hernia (GORD).
Weight Related Joint Disease.
Benign Intracranial Hypertension (headaches).
Infertility.
Hernias.
Many cancers

Tests

No specific tests are required to diagnose obesity. A Weight Loss Surgery consultation with Dr Ben Dodd involves a detailed weight history and analysis of your weight related medical problems. If you proceed to Weight Loss Surgery, further assessment of your breathing (sleep studies, looking for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea) and heart function (echocardiogram, or heart ultrasound) may be necessary.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of being overweight is by calculating your BMI (see link below). The decision by Dr Ben Dodd to recommend surgery is based on your BMI, weight related comorbidites (medical problems), fitness for anaesthesia and your willingness to make subtle lifestyle changes that will guarantee your success long term.

Treatment

According to consensus world guidelines, Weight Loss Surgery is indicated when the following conditions are met:

BMI >35 with weight related comorbidites.
BMI > 30-35 with type 2 diabetes or increased cardiovascular risk (lower for people of Asian background).
Unsuccessful attempts at weight loss through diet and exercise.
No major psychiatric illness or substance abuse disorders.
Adequate cardiorespiratory (heart and lung) fitness for surgery.

Obesity

Introduction

Obesity Causes

Symptoms

Tests

Diagnosis

Treatment

Related Information

Restore your healthspan, today

Menu

Locations