Obesity is a complex, long-term health condition. It’s not just about eating too much or not exercising enough. It is influenced by biology, genetics, mental health, environment, socioeconomics and more. If you're thinking about starting a weight management program, it's important to know that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The goal isn’t just to lose weight. It is to improve your overall health and well-being.
Step 1: Understand That Obesity Is a Chronic Disease
Obesity is now recognized as a chronic disease. That means it needs long-term care and support, just like diabetes or asthma. It’s not something you can fix quickly with a diet or a workout plan. Managing obesity involves making changes that you can stick with over time.
Step 2: Talk to Your Healthcare Provider
Before starting any program, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. They can help you understand your options and create a plan that fits your needs. Your provider might ask about your medical history, lifestyle, and goals. Together, you’ll decide what kind of support you need.
Step 3: Explore the Three Main Types of Treatment
Obesity Canada recommends three main approaches to managing obesity:
A. Behavioural and Psychological Support
This is often the first step. It focuses on changing habits and improving mental health. Some helpful strategies include:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): This helps you understand and change thoughts and behaviours that affect your eating and activity.
Medical Nutrition Therapy: A registered dietitian can help you build a healthy eating plan that works for you. It shouldn’t be too overly strict or hard to follow.
Physical Activity: Moving your body regularly can improve your health, even if your weight doesn’t change much. It helps with energy, mood, and heart health.
These changes are easier to stick with when you have support. Your healthcare provider might suggest joining a support group or working with a therapist.
B. Prescription Medications
Sometimes, lifestyle changes aren’t enough. In Canada, there are several medications approved to help manage obesity. These can help control hunger, cravings, and how your body uses energy. Some examples include:
Wegovy® (Semaglutide): A weekly injection that helps you feel full and eat less.
Zepbound™ (Tirzepatide): Also a weekly injection, it works with your body’s natural hormones to reduce hunger.
Saxenda® (Liraglutide): A daily injection that helps reduce appetite.
Contrave® (Naltrexone/Bupropion): A pill that affects brain signals related to cravings.
Xenical® (Orlistat): A pill that blocks fat absorption from food.
These medications are usually used along with behavioural changes. Your doctor will help decide if one is right for you.
C. Surgery
For people with severe obesity or serious health problems, surgery might be an option. Types of surgery include:
Gastric Bypass: Makes the stomach smaller and changes how food is digested.
Sleeve Gastrectomy: Removes part of the stomach to reduce hunger.
Duodenal Switch: A more complex surgery that limits calorie absorption.
Step 4: Know Your Insurance Options
In Canada, not all treatments are covered by provincial drug plans. If your treatment isn’t covered, you can:
Check your benefits plan(s). You may need to fill in additional forms to access coverage.
Ask your doctor to write a letter explaining why the treatment is needed.
Request an exception from your insurance provider.
Step 5: Focus on Health, Not Just Weight
Success isn’t just about losing pounds or limiting calories. It’s about feeling better, having more energy, and improving your quality of life. Even small changes in habits can lead to big improvements in health. Try to focus on:
Eating nutritious foods
Moving your body regularly
Sleeping well
Managing stress
Building a support system
Non-scale victories such as breathing easier, being able to walk further, resuming activities you enjoy, or a change in how you view yourself can be even more important than the number you see on the scale.
Final Thoughts
Starting a weight management program can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Talk to your pharmacist, explore your options, and take small steps toward better health. Remember, obesity is a chronic condition. Managing obesity takes time, patience, and support.
For more information and resources, visit Obesity Canada’s patient page: https://obesitycanada.ca/understanding-obesity/management/
