According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, obesity is an epidemic in this country. But being obese doesn’t mean you have to be a statistic. Taking control of your weight can lower your risk of serious health problems such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Obesity is defined as having an excess of fat with a body mass index of 30 or more. It’s a chronic and progressive condition that may be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, or lifestyle factors. For example, some people may have a family history of obesity or being overweight; others may gain weight from eating an unhealthy diet and not exercising. As you gain weight, your hormones and metabolic processes may become unbalanced, leading to a dangerous cycle of even more weight gain.
Christopher Ibikunle, MD and the highly skilled team at Atlanta Body Institute are dedicated to helping people lose weight, regain their health, and live their best lives. They aim to educate and support their patients while offering bariatric surgical options that help them reach their weight loss goals sooner.
If you’re obese and don’t seek to lose weight, you may not only be shortening your lifespan, but increasing your risk of cancer and other serious health conditions, including:
Excess weight may even affect your quality of life, creating anxiety or depression or making it difficult for you to participate in activities you enjoy. If you’re obese and want to take control of your health, you have options.
The backbone of losing weight is eating less and exercising more. Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Aim for physical activity every day, and set a goal so you have something to work toward. For example, try walking around the block without stopping, or simply walking for 15 straight minutes. It might be hard at first, but it will get easier as exercise becomes part of your regular routine.
Each person is unique, so our weight loss experts provide recommendations based on your specific needs. If lifestyle changes and medication don’t work, Atlanta Body Institute’s bariatric surgeon, Dr. Ibikunle, can perform gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, or balloon procedures.
Don’t let chronic obesity keep you from living the life you want. We have offices conveniently located in Atlanta, Loganville, and Monroe, GA, so contact us today to schedule an appointment.