According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, obesity affects over 40 percent of U.S. adults and increases the risks for heart disease, cancer, diabetes, stroke and musculoskeletal problems. In 2013, the American Medical Association officially labeled obesity as a disease and there has been an increasing number of physicians devoting all or a portion of their practice to obesity care. Just this past year, I became certified by the American Board of Obesity Medicine as an ABOM diplomate. Currently, there are more than 8,000 ABOM Diplomates throughout the United States and Canada. As a board-certified family medicine physician and now a board-certified obesity medicine physician, my hope is to breakdown any barriers that exist among my primary care patients when it comes to discussing obesity and weight loss.
Weight is not one-dimensional. It is a cause and an effect. It is part of a series of complex dance moves by various characters moving to different beats and tempos at different times. To believe that one person has voluntary control of the whole complex dance would be ridiculous. But to believe that one person might be able to change the end result of the dance by changing some of the music beats or by changing some of the characters--- now that might be possible. If you can understand the fundamentals of the full dance, then you can start to understand where you can make the small changes that will result in a different outcome.
I'm excited about this blog series that will take a deeper look into the world of medical weight loss beyond the realm of fad diets and quick fixes. In this series, we'll be exploring the ABCs of weight management, starting with the foundation: hunger, appetite, and satiety.
Let's start with the basics—hunger. We've all felt it, right? That growling sensation in your stomach that seems to come out of nowhere and demands your attention. But what exactly is hunger, and why does it happen?
At its core, hunger is your body's way of signaling that it needs fuel. It's like your internal GPS reminding you to refuel the tank. But here's the kicker: it's not just about the stomach grumbles. Hunger is a complex interplay of hormones, signals from your brain, and your body's energy needs. Understanding this intricate dance can empower you to make informed decisions about what, when, and how much you eat.
Now, let's talk about its close cousin—appetite. Unlike hunger, which is a biological urge, appetite is more influenced by external factors like smell, sight, and even emotions. Ever find yourself craving a hearty meal just because you caught a whiff of something delicious? That's your appetite kicking in. Learning to navigate your appetite is a crucial step in developing a sustainable approach to weight management.
But, hey, it's not all about restraining ourselves from eating. That's where satiety comes into play. Satiety is the feeling of fullness and satisfaction after a meal. Understanding how to achieve and recognize satiety is key to preventing overeating and making choices that align with your body's actual needs.
Throughout this series, we'll unravel the science of these concepts and explore practical tips to help you build a healthier relationship with food. I'll be sharing evidence-based strategies that go beyond the latest diet trends, helping you make choices that support your overall well-being.
So, are you ready to embark on this enlightening journey with me? Stay tuned for the upcoming posts where we'll delve deeper into the physiology of hunger, appetite, and satiety. Trust me; it's going to be a game-changer on your path to a healthier, happier you! 🌟
Dr. Cardona is board certified in family medicine and obesity medicine and is the founder and physician owner of Cardona Direct Primary Care and RefineMD Aesthetics. Currently accepting new patients. (904) 551-4625. Visit www.cardonadpc.com/weightandwellness for information on our obesity management services.
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