Let's Debunk 4 Big Myths about Obesity!

health

Let’s Debunk 4 Big Myths about Obesity!

By Alpro Pharmacy

April 26, 2024

Myth 1: Obesity is mostly due to a lack of willpower, results from insufficient exercise and a sedentary lifestyle!

While there may be some truth to this, it’s only a part of the overall picture.

Did you know that our body weight is homeostatically regulated and strongly influenced by our genes?

For instance, in identical twins, if one is thin, generally both will be thin, and vice versa. This means that, day-to-day, regardless of the type and amount of food we eat and the daily activities we engage in, our body physiology adapts and maintains our body weight to remain stable over time.

Take-home point 1: Obesity is not merely a lack of willpower; genetic factors play a crucial role.

Myth 2: Obesity is described as having a BMI greater than 24.9 kg/m².

Yes, but currently, we are redefining it and to constantly advocate the community – it is more than just a number!

Obesity is a disease triggered by genetic factors that disrupt our regulation of body weight, leading to a surge in body weight. In the long term, it can lead to many complications from head to toe, including heart diseases, diabetes, an increased risk of osteoarthritis, and lung complications.

Take-home point 2: Obesity is a disease, early intervention reduces long term complications.

Myth 3: Obesity can be treated with exercise

While it’s agreed that exercise is important, here’s a misconception. In an obesity treatment regime, we encourage exercise not primarily for burning fat; the main goal is to reduce the amount of muscle loss.

Let’s break it down. Did you know that in moderate exercise, only a small proportion of the total energy we burn in a day is utilised?

For instance, if a person jogs for half an hour or walks for one hour:

Our daily basal metabolic rate: 368 kg/hour x 24 hours = 8832 kJ/day
Jogging for 30 minutes (0.5 hr): 3075 kg/hour x 0.5 hour = 1538 kJ/day
Walking for 1 hour: 1009 kg/hour x 1 hour = 1009 kJ/day

Therefore, in lifestyle-based therapies, the average weight loss achieved is usually only around 5-6kg. While this may be beneficial for certain overweight patients, in cases of obesity, it is mostly insufficient.

Take-home point: Exercise is important however is insufficient in treatment for obesity.

Myth 4: There's magic pill for weight loss

Again, we stress the main point of the day – Obesity is a disease. To treat a disease often involves multidisciplinary management, and pharmacology which means the use of medication is part of it.

Up to date, Malaysia has 4 approved anti-obesity medications which require consultation and assessment with a physician prior to deciding what is the most suitable option taking into the consideration the 5Cs – contraindications, comorbidities, cues, combination and cost . Like most chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes, there’s no standardised regime for all, instead it should be individualised.

Table below shows a summary of current approved anti-obesity medication in Malaysia :

Take home point : Currently there’s 4 approved oral anti obesity medicines in Malaysia. Do consult doctors who are trained to tell you more about it.

In summary, obesity is a medical condition that can lead to various health problems if not addressed properly. It’s more than just being a number on weighing scale and mathematical formula; it’s a complex issue that requires professional attention for effective management. Healthcare professionals, including doctors, pharmacists and dietitians, working together as a team to help individuals tackle obesity and its associated risks. Seeking help from a healthcare provider is crucial if you’re unsure about your weight status or need guidance on managing obesity. Timely and effective interventions can greatly improve your health and quality of life.

Need More Information? Talk to Our Expert!

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Alpro ePharmacy or visit the nearest Alpro Pharmacy. Our team, consisting of pharmacists, doctors, physiotherapists, nutritionists, audiologists and dietitians, is ready to assist and provide support.