You Ask , They Answer
SUSTAINABLE OBESITY MANAGEMENT
Q
: What is the best obesity management approach that a doctor or therapist would recommend during and post-treatment ?
A
: Obesity management requires a holistic approach combining dietary and lifestyle modifications : i . Dietary Interventions : A dietitian ’ s review is essential for creating a personalized meal plans tailored to the individual ’ s daily calorie requirements . ii . Lifestyle Modifications : This includes body composition analysis and a tailored exercise regimen with an emphasis on both cardio and resistance training . iii . Counseling : Providing motivational support and organizing group therapy sessions can be highly beneficial for sustained and long-term behavioral change .
Q
: When does a psychologist and nutritionist become involved in obesity management ?
A
: Psychologists and nutritionists play a pivotal role early in the consultation phase and throughout follow-up sessions . Their input helps address the psychological and nutritional factors contributing to obesity , while also motivating individuals to initiate and sustain behavior changes .
Q
: Does hormone imbalance play a significant role in obesity ? If so , would any amount of exercise help ?
A
: Absolutely yes . Hormonal imbalances , such as those caused by thyroid dysfunction , Cushing ’ s syndrome , and polycystic ovarian syndrome ( PCOS ), can significantly contribute to obesity .
While targeted medical treatments are necessary for these conditions , regular exercise and other lifestyle modifications , can enhance overall health outcomes and improve the quality of life even in the presence of hormonal imbalances .
Q
: Fitness is associated with more desirable clinical outcomes . How does a physiotherapist or personal trainer access and prescribe the right solution ?
A
: A physiotherapist will design exercise programs based on :
i . The person ’ s comorbidities ( e . g ., diabetes , hypertension , heart disease ). ii . Their physical capabilities and limitation to safely and effectively perform exercises . iii . Customized plans tailored to the person ’ s unique medical and physical condition .
Q
: For patients with the inability to perform exercises or physiotherapy , what other treatment modalities are available for them ?
A
: For those people who are unable to perform exercises or physiotherapy , their treatment typically will focus on : i . Medications to address underlying health issues . ii . Dietary modifications to promote weight management without physical strain . iii . A multidisciplinary team approach where a physiotherapist in the team can design a gentle and suitable exercise regimen tailored to the person ’ s specific health conditions .
Q
: How best to foster behaviour change in obese adolescent ?
A
: Behavior change in adolescents can be encouraged through i . Motivational support groups , with active participation from family members . ii . Setting realistic and achievable weight-loss goals to maintain their motivation and build self-esteem .
Dr Goay Swee En Dr Noor Yuhyi Sulaiman
Clinial Fellow Cardiology , IJN
8 Issue 6 | 2024 GlobalHealthAsiaPacific . com