Excess weight and obesity are a problem that causes several issues with your health. Physically, it may be more difficult for you to walk or exercise, and you may have joint pain. However, the physical impact of obesity is only part of the puzzle.
According to the National Council on Aging, people living with obesity are 55% more likely to develop depression. In comparison, 58% of those with depression are more likely to have excess weight.
However, you don't have to let obesity rule your life. Dr. Lori Scott and the team at Lori Scott Family Care in Kinston, North Carolina, are weight loss specialists who can help you shed extra pounds to improve your physical and mental health. Dr. Scott provides personalized coaching and utilizes the hCG diet to help you lose weight for good.
Many factors play a role in your mental health, including genetics, traumatic experiences, and even your weight. Obesity affects your mental health in different ways, including:
Depression is one of the most significant effects on your mental health due to obesity – but depression may also lead to obesity as well. Poor eating habits may increase inflammation throughout the body, which increases the risk of developing depression.
The many stigmas associated with obesity can lead to anxiety in people who are overweight. Anxiety may come from a social aspect of not wanting to go out because of excess weight or due to health concerns of obesity.
Another issue that develops with your mental health happens when your quality of life deteriorates due to excess weight. It may be challenging to enjoy the things you once loved, which further increases the risk of mental health issues.
Body shaming and the stigma related to obesity can lead to poor body image, which further causes issues with mental health, mood, and self-confidence.
Obesity is related to several chronic health issues in the body. The physical problems related to obesity are numerous, especially paired with a lack of exercise and poor eating habits. Four of the significant physical effects on your health from obesity are:
Excess weight causes issues like high blood pressure and high cholesterol, both of which can lead to heart disease without treatment. Losing weight is one of the best ways to fight off cardiovascular disease and lower your cholesterol and blood pressure.
Type 2 diabetes is another chronic health issue that arises with obesity. When you have diabetes, your body doesn't appropriately use the insulin it makes to decrease blood sugar levels, and it increases your risk of neuropathy and circulatory problems.
Sleep apnea and asthma are both breathing issues related to obesity. Not only does sleep apnea affect your rest overnight, but the condition also may lead to other chronic health issues without treatment.
Obesity takes a toll on your organs, but it also affects your muscles and joints. The excess weight increases pressure on the joints, causing chronic pain, inflammation, and osteoarthritis.
According to the CDC, losing 5%-10% of your weight significantly impacts your health and mental wellness. For example, if you're 200 pounds, losing 10 to 20 pounds is a step in the right direction for your health.
A healthy diet and regular exercise are the best ways to start losing weight, but it can be challenging. If you've tried cutting calories and you’re exercising several times a week without results, Dr. Scott can help.
At your appointment, Dr. Scott evaluates your weight loss attempts, overall health, and mental well-being. She then develops a personalized weight loss program that works for you
Medical weight loss can achieve a healthier body and mind. Along with exercise plans, nutrition counseling, and coaching, Dr. Scott also may provide vitamin B12 injections, appetite suppressants, or hCG so you boost your metabolism, burn fat, and see results quickly.
You can expect regular weigh-ins, personalized meal plans, accountability, and support. Dr. Scott and her team are with you throughout the journey to help you lose weight and develop good habits to keep it off. The aim is to ensure you achieve a healthy weight, decrease your risk of chronic disease, and improve your mood and mental health.
Call Lori Scott Family Care in Kinston, North Carolina, today at 252-513-1749 or request a consultation online so you can meet with Dr. Scott to discuss medical weight loss.
