There are many misconceptions about obesity and its causes.

Obesity is a serious health condition and is becoming more and more common each year. Unfortunately, with the rise of obesity rates often comes an influx of myths and misinformation. We’ve put together some of the most common myths regarding obesity, and the facts you should know about these misconceptions.

1. Myth: poor lifestyle choices cause obesity

Although poor dietary choices and a lack of exercise can certainly contribute to obesity, it is important to understand that obesity has many facets and there are a number of factors that can cause the condition. Some of the factors that can contribute to obesity include one’s stress levels; hormones; underlying medical conditions; genetics; sleep quality; and social and economic factors. It is very important that all of these factors are considered when one is diagnosed with obesity, as well as in the formulation of an effective and sustainable treatment plan. Each individual is different, and treatments should therefore be carefully customised according to the case.

2. Myth: the number on the scale is an indication of success

Of course, if you are embarking on a weight loss journey, you will be tracking your body weight and measurements to measure your progress. But these numbers are not the most important markers of your success. In fact, focusing solely on the numbers on the scale or tape measure can lead to unhealthy, obsessive behaviours, as well as stress and mental health issues.

In order to enjoy a healthy and sustainable weight loss journey, it is important that you focus on making lifestyle changes that feel good to you. This includes dietary adjustments and figuring out an exercise routine that works for your lifestyle. Try to think about the health benefits of weight loss, rather than the aesthetic benefits alone — you may notice a reduction in joint pain, enjoy increased energy levels, or see improvements to your blood pressure, for example.

3. Weight loss is all about calories

Anyone who has tried to lose weight at some point will have heard that in order to achieve your ideal weight, you need to burn more calories than you consume. While the amount of food that you eat certainly affects your ability to lose weight, this philosophy is simply too simplistic when it comes to addressing obesity.

The type and number of calories that you take in will affect how much energy you use, but the foods that you choose to eat can also have an impact on the hormones that affect your hunger levels. In fact, certain foods can actually cause hormonal changes, and contribute to weight gain over time.

Also, some foods make you feel fuller for longer and can even increase the rate of your metabolism. It is important to consider macronutrients, rather than calories alone — proteins, carbohydrates and fats all have different effects on the body and it is important to consume enough nutrients every day in order to maintain overall health.

How can we help?

Dr Stephen Watson and his team understand that each patient is unique and there is no one-size-fits-all solution to weight loss. When you come in for a consultation, Dr Watson will work closely with you to decide what kind of procedure is best for your needs and lifestyle.

Dr Watson has been specialising in weight loss surgery for many years and works with a team of dieticians, bariatric physicians and psychologists to deliver long-term results through personalised treatment plans. This includes surgery, personalised diet and exercise plans, and ongoing psychological support.

Some of the weight loss procedures that are available include Allurion Balloon Program; SASI-S; SADI-S; gastric sleeve surgery; gastric bypass surgery; gastric banding; and revisional weight loss surgery.

To find out more about our weight loss services, please have a look here.

If you would like to arrange a consultation with Dr Watson, please get in touch here or give us a call on (08) 6311 7578.

The review of evidence by Public Health England found excess weight put people at greater risk of needing hospital admission or intensive care. Click here to read more!

Studies have found that those who are obese are at an increased risk of becoming hospitalised or even dying due to COVID-19.

In fact, the World Obesity Federation has gone as far as stating that obesity doubles the chances of COVID-19 causing death. But, why does obesity do this?

Why does obesity increase your COVID-19 risk?

It’s the obesity-related conditions which worsen the effects of COVID-19; most notably heart disease, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and type 2 diabetes. These conditions are thought to increase the severity of COVID-19.

Obesity also causes sufferers to have a weaker immune system, and struggle more to fight off infections.

Also, patients who are overweight and require medical attention care cause more difficulties for medical staff, as it’s harder to intubate them and perform diagnostic imaging among other required medical examinations.

The health risks associated with obesity on COVID-19 are a large contributor to the many ICU admissions and even deaths.

Boris Johnson on the relationship between obesity and COVID-19

The British PM who countlessly rejected the claims against obesity in the past actually blamed his ICU admission and near-death experience on being obese.

Since the experience, he has begun launching anti-obesity drives to help British people lose weight, and live healthier and more active lifestyles.

Obesity statistics in Australia and the UK

The stats by the Commons Research Briefing show that around 28.7% of adults in the UK are obese, while a further 35.6% are classed as overweight. While in Australia, The Department of Health records show that 67% of Australians are either overweight or obese.

These numbers aren’t low and are quite concerning; the issue doesn’t only impact Australia and the UK.

It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and begin reducing your weight if your BMI is >25.

A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is classified as the healthy range, whereas 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight, while >30 is classified as obesity.

So, our team has put together a range of helpful tips to help you begin losing weight; read them below!

Our tips for managing your weight:

1. Reduce the carbs – It’s important to reduce carbohydrates, sugars and starches as this will significantly reduce your calorie intake. It will also reduce your appetite, leading you to consume less food.
2. Exercise – No matter your exercise ability, it’s important to do whatever exercise you can, no matter how small it is. Swimming or another aqua activity in a pool is a great exercise option as it doesn’t cause huge strain on your body. Swimming will help build endurance, improve strength and cardiovascular endurance.
3. Avoid sugary products – It’s important to cut down on excess sugars. Sugar has many side-effects such as glucose spikes, increases risks of certain diseases, causes bad dental hygiene, increases aging and tiredness and leads to weight gain.
4. Eat slower – Did you know that eating slower actually makes you feel fuller without eating as much food? If you are eating your food quicker, it can lead to increased weight gain.
5. Protein-rich breakfast – By eating a protein-rich breakfast, you will actually reduce your food cravings throughout the day. Eggs are a good source of protein; however, if you don’t eat eggs, any other source of protein will do.
6. Quality sleep – Make sure to go to bed earlier and ensure you get between 7-9 hours of quality sleep a night, without disruptions.
7. Drink black coffee – Coffee is loaded with antioxidants and carries numerous health benefits. However, you should restrict your coffees to before lunchtime, so that they don’t disturb your sleep.
8. Probiotic supplements – Probiotics are important as they keep your gut healthy and help to fight off bad bacteria.
9. Eat more vegetables & fruit – They are full of vitamins and minerals that you need to stay healthy. We recommend reaching the daily recommended limit every day.
10. Drink enough water – It’s important to keep your body hydrated by drinking plenty of water. You should aim to drink about 2 litres of water per day.

Looking for weight loss solutions?

Contact Dr Stephen Watson. Dr Watson is a weight loss surgeon in Perth who helps people to lose weight. In many cases, diet and exercise are not enough to help you reach a healthy weight range, or goal weight. Dr Stephen Watson, along with his team of weight loss professionals offer a wide range or surgical weight loss options.

The best way to find out if you’re a candidate for weight loss surgery, and even just to assess your options and have your questions answered is via a consultation with Dr Watson.

Call Dr Watson’s team on (08) 6311 7578, or click here to book online.