TWIRx | The Misunderstood Complexity of Obesity

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about obesity that are constantly being spread around the world. Despite extensive research and studies, society has developed a toxic concept of obesity and most are not willing to learn the truth behind the complex and chronic disease. While we don’t know everything that there is to know about obesity and weight management, spreading myths and misconceptions is harmful and damaging. Here are some common myths and misconceptions about obesity: “Obesity is not a disease” Culturally, we tend to see obesity as a result of poor lifestyle choices and character flaws. This is simply not the case. Obesity is a complex and chronic disease that should be taken as seriously as any other illness or disease. It is a medical problem that can increase one’s risk for other diseases and health problems and affects millions worldwide. “Obesity is caused by poor diet and no physical activity” There are many reasons that someone may be affected by the disease of obesity. While poor diet and lack of physical activity can contribute to obesity, they are not the only factors that can cause it. Sometimes obesity can be caused by genetics, medication or even rare diseases. For example, some medications that are used to help someone with physical or mental illnesses may cause weight gain which can lead to obesity. There are also people who are genetically predisposed to obesity and may struggle with it from birth. While diet and exercise certainly play a role in someone’s health, it is not the sole cause or treatment for obesity. Special Guests   Ted Kyle, RPh, MBA  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-kyle-21a868a  Ted is a healthcare professional experienced in collaborating with leading health and obesity experts for sound policy and innovation to address health needs and the obesity epidemic in North America. For the past 10 years, Ted has dedicated his career to understanding how to address health issues and needs created by obesity. Daily Updates from Ted: https://conscienhealth.org/category/news/ Katherine H. Saunders MD, DABOM LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-saunders-md-711a8122   Dr. Katherine H. Saunders is a physician entrepreneur and a leading expert in Obesity Medicine. She is on the cutting edge of effective and compassionate obesity treatment. Dr. Saunders is on faculty at Weill Cornell Medicine, where she teaches and precepts.  Dr. Saunders received her undergraduate degree Phi Beta Kappa/Summa Cum Laude from Dartmouth College and her medical degree from Weill Cornell Medical College, where she became a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her internship and residency training in Internal Medicine (Primary Care) at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medicine, where she served as ambulatory chief resident. Dr. Saunders was the first clinical fellow in Obesity Medicine at the Comprehensive Weight Control Center at Weill Cornell Medicine. Website:  https://www.intellihealth.co/