In the U.S., over 93 million people (almost 40%) are obese according to the CDC. Obesity is defined as having an excess amount of body fat. It isn't just about how you look and feel - it's about your health and the risk of problems and diseases it can pose. Obesity can increase your risk of diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure, as well as gastrointestinal conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, gallstones, and more.
The percentage of those dealing with obesity is higher among Hispanic people (approximately 47%) and non-Hispanic black people (approximately 46%). At Charleston GI, our expert team is here to provide treatment and help address digestive issues associated with obesity. No referral is needed to meet with one of our board-certified gastroenterologists, so contact us today to get started.
To put it simply, obesity is caused by taking in more calories than you burn. Those extra calories are then stored as fat. In some cases, obesity can be linked to another medical condition. Obesity is often caused by:
Eating an unhealthy diet:
Taking in more calories than you burn will eventually cause weight gain. Many Americans eat a high-calorie diet and consume high-calorie fast food regularly.
Inactivity:
Those who live a less active or sedentary lifestyle don’t burn as many calories as those who do. A sedentary lifestyle leads to taking in more calories than you burn through normal activities.
Other external causes of obesity include:
Childcare Trends:
Partaking in more screen time and less outdoor play in childcare environments can lead to an inactive lifestyle and weight gain.
Disability:
Both physical and learning disabilities can impact activity levels which increases the risk of obesity.
Fatigue:
Lack of movement can lead to fatigue which decreases motivation for physical activity. This creates a cycle of inactivity.
Fast, Convenient Foods:
Fast foods are high in calories and low in nutrients, which can contribute to overeating.
Hormones:
Hormonal imbalances caused by stress, lack of sleep, genetics, or other reasons can increase hunger and cravings, impacting your weight.
Marketing and Advertising:
Advertising and marketing done by unhealthy food and fast food companies are designed to encourage you to choose their products which can lead to overconsumption.
Medications:
Some pharmaceutical drugs, like antidepressants and steroids, for example, can lead to weight gain.
Neighborhood Design:
The lack of parks, sidewalks, and safe areas for exercise in a community limits opportunities for physical activity.
Psychological Factors:
Emotions such as boredom, loneliness, and stress can lead to overeating and inactivity.
Screen Culture:
Increased screen time promotes a more sedentary lifestyle.
Sugar in Everything:
High sugar content in many foods leads to excessive calorie intake and a disruption in energy levels.
Workforce Changes:
An increased amount of desk jobs and longer hours reduce opportunities for physical activity levels.
RISK FACTORS
Family Lifestyle:
Shared eating habits and activity levels in families can contribute to obesity.
Genetics:
Genetic factors can affect how your body stores fat and processes food.
Inactivity:
A sedentary lifestyle leads to fewer calories burned and increases the likelihood of gaining weight.
Medical Conditions/Medicines:
Certain medical conditions and medications can lead to weight gain.
Unhealthy Diet:
Consuming high-calorie foods, large portions of food, and sugary drinks can contribute to obesity.
SYMPTOMS
Asthma:
Breathing problems due to excess fat crowding the lungs.
Back Pain:
Extra weight increases pressure on the spine.
Cancers:
Higher risk of esophageal, pancreatic, colorectal, breast, uterine, and ovarian cancers.
Cognitive Decline:
Increased risk of memory problems, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia.
Depression:
Higher likelihood of mood disorders and depression.
Diabetes (Type 2):
Increased risk due to insulin resistance.
Fatty Liver Disease:
Excess fat in the liver can lead to inflammation and long-term damage.
Gallstones:
High cholesterol can result in stones in the gallbladder.
Gout:
Increased risk due to higher levels of uric acid.
Heart Disease:
High blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation increase your risk.
Infertility:
Can cause difficulties getting pregnant and complications during pregnancy.
Joint Pain:
Higher risk of arthritis and pain due to extra weight on joints.
Kidney Disease:
Increased risk due to high blood pressure and diabetes.
Metabolic Syndrome:
A cluster of conditions including high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome:
Breathing disorder caused by excess weight.
Sleep Apnea:
Breathing interruptions during sleep due to excess weight.
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered a healthy weight, between 25 and 29.5 is overweight, between 30 and 34.9 is obese, between 35 and 39.5 is class 2 obesity and anything over 40 is "severe" or class 3 obesity, which used to be called morbid obesity.
It’s important to talk to your doctor to discuss your condition, how to manage your weight loss, and to ensure there is not a medical condition at the root of your weight gain. Your doctor will help you manage your weight in a way that is healthy and right for you and help you make the best decisions for your well-being.
DIAGNOSTIC TEST
Physical Exam:
Your healthcare provider will take a look at your weight, height, waist size, and any other symptoms you may be experiencing caused by obesity.
Blood Test:
Your doctor will check your blood sugar and cholesterol levels and screen for any hormone issues.
Heart Rate Check:
They will monitor your heart rate to assess your heart health and fitness level.
Blood Pressure Check:
This test measures the force of your blood pushing against artery walls as your heart beats.
TREATMENT
Dietary Changes
Personalized diet adjustments, such as:
Cutting portion sizes or snacks.
Changing the types of foods consumed.
Eat more plant-based foods:
Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Plant-based foods are lower in fat, higher in fiber, and will help you feel full with fewer calories.
Increased Activity
Regular exercise is key:
Your workout doesn't have to be intense or require a gym.
Walking at a moderate pace for 30 minutes, five days a week, is highly effective for weight loss.
Try incorporating a daily walk into your routine, like during lunchtime or before or after work.
Behavioral Therapies
Support through counseling and therapy:
This could include cognitive behavioral therapy, support groups, and individual counseling.
Counseling can help change habits and manage stress or emotional factors that are affecting weight loss.
Medication
Some medications can support weight loss efforts (appetite suppressants like GLP-1 meds, for example).
Weight Loss Surgery
Bariatric surgery for severe obesity:
Considered for those with class III obesity.
Surgery makes changes to the digestive system that limit calorie intake and absorption.
PREVENTION
Regular Exercise
Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day. This can be as simple as a walk at a brisk pace.
Healthy Eating
Opt for low-calorie foods. Focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Lower intake of high-calorie foods. Limit fried foods, sugary snacks, and alcohol.
Monitor Your Weight
Weigh yourself once a week. This helps track your progress and maintain a healthy weight.
Long-Term Commitment
Stick with your healthy habits. Make regular exercise and healthy eating a part of your lifestyle.
Consider professional support. A registered dietitian can provide professional guidance and help you create a sustainable plan for weight loss.
Gastrointestinal side effects from obesity drugs like Ozempic are possible. Side effects can include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, or more serious issues like gastroparesis and bowel obstruction. Remember, everyone’s experience is different due to their medical history and/or pre-existing conditions. Talk to your doctor and gastroenterologist to determine if a GLP-1 drug is right for you.
How much can an obese individual benefit from healthy weight loss?
Losing even a small amount of weight - as small as five to 10% - can lower your risk of obesity-related diseases. Weight loss combined with regular exercise can improve your overall health, joint pain, and arthritis-induced pain.
What is the difference between obesity and being overweight?
A person qualifies as "obese" when their body mass index (BMI) is 30 or higher. BMI is categorized as follows:
Below 18.5: Underweight
18.5-24.9: Normal
25.0-29.9: Overweight
30.0 and above: Obese
If you think you may be obese, visit your doctor to discuss health risks, review the state of your health, and discuss the best weight loss options for you.
How common is obesity in America?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports nearly 20% of Americans have a BMI of 30 or higher, which is the number that places an individual in the obese category for BMI. The gastrointestinal effects obesity has on the body are not just an issue in the U.S. but worldwide.
How common is obesity worldwide?
Obesity is a rapidly growing global issue. It is a leading cause of rising healthcare costs and preventable chronic diseases. To take the first step in improving your health, talk to your primary care physician or gastroenterologist to determine the right lifestyle changes for you.
Can stress cause obesity?
Stress can have an impact on your weight. Stress may lead to eating more, choosing foods higher in sugar and fat, living a sedentary lifestyle, not sleeping well, hormone disruption, and inflammation, which can all cause weight gain. Stress can lead to higher levels of cortisol which promotes visceral fat storage. In addition, weight gain may trigger stress which can lead to more weight gain as it becomes a cycle.
Are pancreas issues common for obese individuals?
Obesity can increase your risk of pancreas problems, including pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Some risk factors for pancreatitis include:
Gallstones
Diabetes
High triglyceride levels
Obesity treatments like bariatric surgery
Medications such as GLP-1 agonists
You can lower your risk through small lifestyle changes. Modest weight loss and regular exercise can help manage obesity-related issues and reduce any future health risks.
In what ways does obesity affect someone’s health?
Obesity can affect your overall health in different ways. It can cause gastrointestinal inflammation which can worsen your health outcomes and cause greater medical challenges. Obesity can also increase your risk for a variety of medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, stroke, gallbladder disease, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease, osteoarthritis, reproductive issues, and mental health issues.
Are bowel movement problems common for obese individuals?
Yes, obesity can contribute to GI issues, including:
Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can be linked to obesity, gallstones, diabetes, high triglycerides, bariatric surgery, or new medications like GLP-1 agonists.
Gastrointestinal inflammation: Excess body fat can increase the risk of inflammation, leading to more severe symptoms and can cause a reduced response to treatments.
Multisystem effects: Obesity can impact multiple organs and requires a multi-team approach for effective treatment.
Small weight changes and adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help manage complications and prevent further health problems. Talk with your primary care doctor or a gastroenterologist at Charleston GI to develop a proper evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment plan.
Does obesity cause abdomen pain?
Obesity can cause abdominal pain. Excess fat in the abdominal area can place pressure on the internal organs, which can lead to bloating, discomfort, and pain. Additionally, obesity is also associated with GI conditions like heartburn, ulcers, and gallbladder issues.
Can obesity result in gastrointestinal disease?
Obesity can result in gastrointestinal diseases, including GERD, gallstones, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and even certain types of gastrointestinal cancer. This is due to the pressure excess abdominal fat places on the digestive system.
SCHEDULE YOUR GI APPOINTMENT TODAY, NO REFERRAL NEEDED
To learn more about addressing any GI tract issues related to obesity, get in touch with our gastroenterologists in Charleston, SC today! Charleston Gastroenterology is committed to a higher standard of caring, and we provide a range of medical treatments to help you take back your quality of life.
If you are experiencing painful gastrointestinal symptoms, schedule your appointment today! No referral needed!
