Do you have an ideal weight? Understand how to check properly

Whether it’s meeting aesthetic standards or a health concern, the quest for the ideal weight is constant. No wonder weight control is a common goal for the new year every year. But the matter is not as simple as it seems – at least because science still does not know exactly how to define the ideal weight for each individual.

“We win the Nobel Prize if we know at what weight an individual will not be sick and at what weight obesity, who should be observed and who should be treated,” says the coordinator of the Specialized Center. Alemão Oswaldo Cruz Hospital, by Ricardo Cohen on Obesity and Diabetes.

The doctor says that what is known today is the definition of obesity: abnormal distribution of fat leading to consequencessuch as diseases that increase the quality of life, mobility or mortality of the individual. This should preferably be evaluated with an endocrinologist.

How do I know if I am overweight?

THEM clinical evaluation by endocrinologist It is the most convenient way to diagnose overweight. Besides analyzing possible complications, the specialist evaluates factors related to weight gain, such as abdominal circumference, associated diseases (such as hypertension, diabetes and sleep apnea), and specific tests to confirm whether it is pathological.

“Complications aren’t just diabetes, there are people who can’t tie their shoes or play on the floor with their kids, or have low self-esteem. There are several criteria to consider,” explains Cohen.

Previously used concepts such as BMI (Body Mass Index, weight to height squared) are secondary and meaningless when used alone. The doctor mentions that many athletes have high BMIs, which can be indicative of obesity due to the large amount of lean mass; there are also overweight people who currently do not need treatment.

“We call someone who has a BMI of 30 but runs a half marathon, has a normal social life, has a normal self-esteem, and is very overweight.”

When to call an endocrinologist?

Cohen recommends that people with a family history of obesity genetics be followed up with an endocrinologist. In addition, if there is progressive weight gain, it is recommended to visit the specialist: the doctor will study which to treat and which to monitor, so that the doctor can intervene at the right time, whether with medication or surgery. “

What treatments for weight control?

According to Cohen, lifestyle changes are very important, but in cases of obesity where weight gain is associated with complications to the patient’s health, medicines. “If diet and physical activity had worked, if we had eaten less and exercised more, we would have had far less obesity and diabetes than we have today.”

The expert explains that the new drugs have yet to have long-term studies, but show very promising initial results in the short term. “Lifestyle change is very important, but it must always be accompanied by an intervention.”

Surgery is usually indicated if there is no response to drug therapy. bariatric, stomach reduction. “Obesity and its consequences are much more invasive and deadly than any surgery, any medical treatment. As a preventable cause of death, we need to treat it aggressively,” says Cohen.

As for self-medication, it is never recommended. If the patient believes that weight gain is bad for him, he should consult an endocrinologist. “This professional knows what is the best medicine, what to do to get good results, contraindications and connotations. There are drugs sold as miracles, but most of the time the miracle kills the saint.”