People who are obese or overweight need an effective action plan to kick-start their health journey writes Meera Murugesan
DATIN Geraldine S Bigar was not able to shed her postpartum weight after her third pregnancy.
Due to her weight, she felt ashamed and hardly went out or socialised with anyone.
"I felt insecure. I was worried that people would judge me due to my weight. It caused me to isolate myself at home," she says.
The turning point for her came when she stepped on a tile, causing it to crack. It eventually triggered her weight loss journey.
Initially, it was tough for her to lose weight, especially as a mother of three. The first thing Geraldine did was to change her diet.
All desserts and sweets were cut out but she allowed herself one "cheat day" per week. This was paired with consistent exercise for about an hour at least 3-4 times a week.
She also sought help from doctors who advised her on proper nutrition, exercise and treatment options.
With all that in place, she managed to lose weight in an effective way.
She urges those who are in the same position to not give up and find the motivation to change.
"The key to a new you, starts today and not tomorrow. At the end of the day, your hard work will pay off and it will all be worth it," she adds.
Obesity is becoming an increasingly serious issue each year. Malaysia has one of the highest obesity rates in Asia.
The National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2019 revealed that 1 in 2 adults in Malaysia were overweight or obese.
Obesity is defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health.
It is widely acknowledged as a risk factor for non communicable diseases.
Malaysian Association for the Study of Obesity (MASO) president professor Dr Mohd Ismail Noor, says many factors play a role in obesity such as genetics, biology, healthcare access, mental health, sociocultural factors, economics, commercial interests and environmental determinants.
Those who are overweight or obese have an increased risk of developing chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and certain types of cancers.
"Often these are irreversible so it is very important that we raise the awareness level," he says.
Malaysian Endocrine and Metabolic Society (MEMS) president, Dr Zanariah Hussein, says some individuals who are overweight or living with obesity have grown accustomed to their size because they also see it in people around them. Hence, they do not see their weight as a problem.
Malaysians' love for food has also contributed to the increased rates of overweight and obesity in the country.
OBESITY AND COVID-19
As people around the world continue to battle the Covid-19 pandemic, it is important for those living with obesity to take precautions as the combination of these two major public health problems is dangerous.
The Movement Control Order (MCO) could have led to a more sedentary lifestyle for many as most Malaysians were working from home.
In NHMS 2019, 1 in 4 adults were assessed to be physically inactive and Dr Zanariah says this could have worsened during the MCO.
Dr Mohd Ismail says people living with obesity should continue to take precautions even as restrictions are lifted. This is because an obese person who becomes infected with Covid-19 will present several particular challenges in terms of medical management.
THE JOURNEY TO HEALTH
Dr Zanariah says in most cases, people living with obesity only seek weight-loss treatments when their weight has reached a point that has resulted in medical complications.
"Lifestyle modification is very important and should always be the first step taken in a person's weight loss journey. Treatment options like anti-obesity drugs can be considered, however patients should use them in addition to diet, exercise and behavioural change," she says.
Many people often tend to look for a quick fix when it comes to losing weight, she adds.
They do not realise that weight loss is a gradual process and it is not the same for everyone.
Most weight loss programmes look at about 10 per cent weight reduction in the first 6 months.
One of the most important steps in weight loss is behavioral change. If the person is not motivated to take action about their weight, no one can force them to do so.
Losing weight is not an easy task and starting the journey is the most challenging part explains, Dr Zanariah.
It is important to set realistic targets and stick to a dedicated treatment plan she stresses.
Malaysian Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Society (MYMBSS), president-elect, Datuk Dr Tikfu Gee, agrees that every person's weight loss journey is different.
"There are no two journeys that are the same, therefore patients should discuss the preferred type of therapy with their doctors," he says.
However, if the patient is living with morbid obesity, bariatric surgery should be recommended as the first-line treatment adds Dr Gee.
People living with obesity can also find support groups which offer behaviour modification programmes to make lifestyle changes and keep off the lost weight in the long term.
These groups can help patients find motivation and thoughtful support from others who share similar challenges.
Get in shape and use suitable workout gear. Redeem extra price cuts using Adidas Promo Code.