Obesity has become one of the most pressing global health concerns, affecting millions of people across all age groups. Beyond a cosmetic issue, obesity can significantly impact an individual’s overall health and quality of life. It increases the risk of chronic diseases, reduces mobility, in turn contributing to the reduction of life expectancy. A comprehensive approach begins with understanding its causes, associated health risks, and the available treatment options such as Liraglutide in Singapore
Going beyond the cosmetic: What defines obesity?
Obesity is defined as an excessive accumulation of body fat that may impair health. It is typically measured using Body Mass Index (BMI), with a BMI of 30 or higher indicates obesity. It is important to distinguish between being overweight (BMI of 25–29.9) and being obese, as it will pose a big risk to long term health.
Numerous factors do contribute to fat accumulation. This includes diet, physical activity, hormones, genetics, and lifestyle habits.
Diving deep: Understanding the causes of obesity
1. Unhealthy Diet
Consuming high-calorie foods that are rich in fats, sugars, and processed ingredients can quickly lead to weight gain, especially when paired with poor portion control.
2. Lack of Physical Activity
A sedentary lifestyle reduces energy expenditure, allowing excess calories to be stored as fat. Desk-bound jobs, screen time, and minimal exercise contribute significantly to weight gain.
3. Genetics
Genetic predisposition can influence how the body stores fat and regulates metabolism. Those with a family history of obesity may be more prone to weight challenges.
4. Hormonal Imbalance
Conditions such as hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and insulin resistance can disrupt the body’s metabolic processes, making weight loss more difficult.
5. Medical Conditions & Medications
Certain medications, such as antidepressants, corticosteroids, and antipsychotics, may cause weight gain as a side effect. Additionally, underlying medical issues can affect metabolism and appetite control.
6. Emotional & Psychological Factors
Stress, anxiety, depression, and poor sleep patterns often lead to emotional eating and cravings for unhealthy foods, contributing to weight gain over time.
Going beyond the cosmetic: Health Risks Associated with Obesity
Carrying excess weight increases the risk of developing several serious health conditions –
- Cardiovascular Diseases – including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke
- Type 2 Diabetes – due to insulin resistance and glucose intolerance
- Sleep Apnea & Breathing Issues – fat deposits around the neck can obstruct the airways
- Joint Pain & Osteoarthritis – added weight places extra pressure on joints
- Liver Disease – particularly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Certain Cancers – such as breast, colon, and kidney cancer
While the visible effects of obesity are often the most discussed, the real concern lies deeper – in the serious health risks it poses to the body. From cardiovascular disease to metabolic disorders, obesity can significantly compromise overall well-being and quality of life. Understanding these risks underscores the importance of timely intervention. Fortunately, with the right combination of medical support, lifestyle adjustments, and treatment options, obesity can be effectively managed. Let us explore the most sustainable approaches to achieve sustainable weight loss and improved health!
Effective Treatment Options for Obesity
1. Lifestyle Modifications
The foundation of any obesity treatment plan is sustainable lifestyle change:
- Balanced Diet – Focus on nutrient-rich, whole foods and portion control
- Regular Exercise – Incorporate both cardiovascular and strength training
- Behavioral Therapy – Identify emotional eating patterns and develop healthy coping strategies
2. Medical Weight Management: Liraglutide
Liraglutide is a prescription weight loss injection that mimics a hormone called GLP-1, which targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake.
How Liraglutide works:
- Reduces hunger
- Delays stomach emptying
- Improves satiety
Who Is Eligible?
- Adults with a BMI ≥30, or
- BMI ≥27 with at least one weight-related medical condition
Potential Side Effects:
- Common: nausea, diarrhea, constipation
- Rare: pancreatitis, gallbladder disease
At SOL aesthetics clinic, our doctors assess eligibility and provide medically supervised programs to ensure safe and effective use.
3. Bariatric Surgery for Severe Obesity
For individuals with severe obesity (BMI ≥40 or ≥35 with comorbidities) who do not respond to other treatments, bariatric surgery may be considered:
- Gastric Bypass – Reduces stomach size and reroutes digestion
- Gastric Sleeve – Removes a portion of the stomach to limit food intake
- Adjustable Gastric Banding – Places a band around the upper stomach to create a smaller pouch
These surgical options offer significant and sustained weight loss, but require long-term lifestyle changes and medical supervision.
What to Expect from Professional Support
At SOL medical aesthetics clinic, our obesity management services are tailored to each patient’s needs. We would first start off with a comprehensive consultation to review your medical history and lifestyle. We will also conduct some lab tests to ensure suitability. Thereafter, we would be providing you with a customized treatment plan that combines lifestyle coaching, medication or referrals for surgery if it is needed.
We would also like to tap on this opportunity to mention that this is a journey and ongoing support is required. This includes nutritional counseling, regular progress reviews and long term follow up!
Take control of your health today!
Obesity is more than just a cosmetic concern—it is a chronic medical condition with serious health implications. Fortunately, with the right knowledge, support, and treatment, it can be effectively managed.
Here at SOL medical aesthetics clinic in Singapore, we are committed to helping patients achieve better health through safe, science-backed, and compassionate care. For those in Singapore seeking medical support for weight management, Liraglutide is one of the clinically proven options we offer. This prescription treatment helps regulate appetite and supports sustainable weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes.
If you are struggling with weight and unsure of your next step, we encourage you to consult our medical team for a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
