Obesity is a complex and challenging health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. At Dr. Joline's Clinic, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for obese individuals. We aim to shed light on the causes, consequences, and treatment options for obesity and the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle to prevent and manage this condition.

Biology:

It’s crucial to note that while the body's ability to enter starvation mode is an evolutionary adaptation, prolonged periods of starvation or extremely low-calorie diets in the modern context can have adverse effects.

1. When subjected to a caloric deficit, the body perceives it as a potential threat to survival. In response, a cascade of physiological changes is set in motion to conserve energy and ensure the essential functions vital for life. One of the primary mechanisms activated during caloric restriction is slowed metabolism.
2.   Leptin, often referred to as the "satiety hormone," decreases during caloric restriction, signalling to the brain that energy reserves are diminishing. This triggers increased hunger and a decreased sense of fullness, promoting the consumption of more calories.
3. Ghrelin, the "hunger hormone," experiences an uptick, intensifying feelings of hunger and encouraging the storage of fat.
4.  Cortisol, the stress hormone, may also elevate, contributing to the preservation of fat stores. These hormonal shifts collectively create a powerful drive to eat and conserve energy, hindering sustained weight loss efforts.

The body prioritises the preservation of fat stores as a primary energy source during times of perceived famine. Fat is an efficient, dense energy reservoir, making it essential for survival during extended periods without food. As a result, the body resists tapping into these crucial reserves, making weight loss a challenging endeavour.

Food:

In a world where health-conscious choices are increasingly prioritised, the food industry's latest manoeuvres have left consumers navigating a complex landscape of processed products masquerading as healthy alternatives. Recent news reveals a concerning trend where companies are skillfully monetising the desire for nutritious options, often at the expense of transparency and genuine nutritional value.

Clever marketing strategies employed by some food giants are making processed items appear health-oriented. Buzzwords like natural, organic, Zero sugar, high fibre, low carb, low cal, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-fat" adorn packaging, creating a facade of wholesomeness.

Nutrient claims and colourful imagery further contribute to the illusion, enticing consumers to believe they are making health-conscious choices. Behind the scenes, however, many of these supposedly healthy processed foods harbour excessive sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives. The challenge lies in the disconnect between perception and reality, as consumers unknowingly fall prey to clever marketing tactics. 

GENES: Research has illuminated the undeniable impact of genetic factors on weight regulation. Certain gene variants can predispose individuals to a higher body mass index (BMI), influencing factors such as metabolism, fat storage, and even appetite regulation. This genetic predisposition sets the stage for a potential uphill battle against obesity. It’s important to note that the interplay of genetics and environmental factors is highly complex, and individual responses can vary. Lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and overall health play crucial roles in determining whether genetic predispositions to obesity manifest.

LIFE EVENTS:

1. Early Adulthood: Early adulthood lays the foundation for lifelong habits. Lifestyle choices, dietary patterns, and physical activity levels established during this period often influence weight trajectory. The transition from adolescence to adulthood can introduce newfound independence in decision-making, potentially impacting dietary choices and exercise habits.

2. Pregnancy: Pregnancy is a transformative period where a woman's body undergoes substantial changes to support fetal development. Hormonal fluctuations, increased caloric needs, and lifestyle adjustments can contribute to weight gain during pregnancy. Postpartum, the challenges of weight retention may arise, influenced by factors such as breastfeeding and maternal metabolism.

3. Illnesses: Hypothyroid, PCOS.

4. Medications: Steroids, Contraceptives, Antidepressants, Antipsychotics, Antidepressants, Antihistamines, Medication for Infertility.

SLEEP: 

Quality sleep is not merely a luxury but a crucial component of overall health. The mechanisms underlying the relationship between sleep and weight are multifaceted. Sleep deprivation disrupts the delicate equilibrium of hormones that regulate hunger and satiety, leading to increased cravings for high-calorie foods. Moreover, inadequate sleep compromises the body's ability to process and regulate glucose, contributing to insulin resistance. 

This metabolic disruption further amplifies the risk of weight gain and the development of obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes. Insufficient sleep during formative years can disrupt growth hormone secretion and set the stage for unhealthy weight trajectories.

MENTAL HEALTH & SOCIAL STIGMA:

Mental stress plays a significant role in the development and exacerbation of eating disorders, as it can contribute to the adoption of disordered eating behaviours as a coping mechanism. Several types of mental stressors may contribute to the onset of eating disorders such as body Image Dissatisfaction, perfectionism, trauma and abuse, low Self-Esteem, stressful Life transitions & social pressures.

The pervasive societal bias against those with obesity can manifest in various forms, from subtle judgment to outright discrimination. This stigma, ingrained in cultural attitudes and media portrayals, can inflict lasting emotional wounds, influencing mental health and self-esteem.

The psychological toll of weight stigma can create a vicious cycle. Coping mechanisms, such as stress-induced eating, may exacerbate weight-related challenges, perpetuating a cycle that is challenging to break. Additionally, individuals may internalise societal biases, leading to a sense of shame and reluctance to seek support for their health journey. 

Beyond the emotional toll, weight stigma has tangible health consequences. Studies reveal that individuals who experience discrimination based on their weight are more likely to engage in unhealthy eating habits and sedentary behaviours. This can contribute to the progression of obesity-related conditions and hinder efforts to adopt healthier lifestyles.

Struggling with obesity can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. At Dr Joline's Clinic, we offer personalised care and support to help you achieve a healthier, happier life.