Over the last two decades, the prevalence of obesity in Canada has increased1. A survey from 2022 suggests that nearly one in three Canadians are living with obesity1. However, despite being so common, obesity is misunderstood and often not effectively managed within health care systems6. It’s not as simple as eating less and moving more — obesity is a serious chronic health condition6. Even so, those with obesity are frequently blamed and shamed because many of us do not understand the root causes of this condition. World Obesity Day is a time to think about the complexity of obesity and how we can better understand and help manage it.
There’s More to Obesity Than Meets the Eye
Simply put, obesity is a chronic (long-term) health condition that occurs when the body stores too much fat, which can lead to health problems like diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer3.
It’s important to recognize that being obese does not mean someone is lazy or lacks willpower. Obesity is influenced by biological factors, not individual choice2. The reasons behind this excess fat storage are complex. Factors like genetics, environment, poor sleep, and stress can lead to obesity8.
Obesity can last for someone’s entire life and requires ongoing management. Like other chronic health conditions, it can’t be cured but can be controlled2.
Medications for Obesity: How They Can Help
There are many ways to help control and manage obesity and everyone will require a different treatment plan. For some, changes to their nutrition and exercise habits may be enough. However, in some cases, medications can be used to help treat obesity. These medications can help make people feel less hungry, feel full more quickly, or change how someone digests fat4. Obesity medications are not a quick fix. But when paired with behavioural changes, they can be very helpful for some people with obesity.
Obesity medication may be right for you if4:
- Your BMI is at least 30
- Your BMI is at least 27 and you’re experiencing problems like high blood pressure or diabetes
- You have been unsuccessful in managing your obesity through diet and exercise only
In Canada, there are four prescription medications available to help treat obesity. Your health care team can help determine which medication is right for you and your obesity treatment. They will also be able to help you manage any side effects that could occur.
Common side effects that can occur when taking obesity medication are4:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Bowel problems
If your primary care provider prescribes obesity medication, your community pharmacist can help you use it safely and effectively. They can:
- Explain how the medication works and what to expect
- Help you manage side effects, like nausea or headaches
- Set realistic goals
Don’t Fall for Fad Diets
The judgement that can be directed towards those with obesity can be hurtful and affect self-esteem. Looking for a quick fix may be tempting, but extremely restrictive diets can be dangerous and cause health complications5. As tempting as fad diets can be, it’s important to manage your obesity appropriately. Fad diets often promise quick and easy weight loss. This can be done by cutting out entire food groups or following extremely strict eating rules. These diets can cause health issues like fatigue, dehydration, nausea, and constipation5.
Instead of extreme, unsustainable diets, try making small, long-lasting changes like eating more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and avoiding sugary drinks and highly processed food. It’s important to choose healthier habits for your lifestyle that you can maintain for life.
Sometimes the “eat less, move more” approach does not work for obesity treatment7. This chronic health condition is complex and needs to be treated accordingly. Together, we can help change the narrative around obesity and what appropriate treatment looks like.
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