How to treat obesity

Treatment of obesity combines lifestyle change with medical care. It is long-term and works best with support and no blame.

Step 1: assessment

A doctor checks BMI, waist, blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, thyroid and liver tests, medicines, sleep and mood, to find causes and risks.

Step 2: set realistic goals

Aim for a 5 to 10 percent weight loss over 6 months, at a pace of about 0.5 to 1 kg a week. Even this improves health.

Step 3: lifestyle programme

• A personalised eating plan from a dietitian
• At least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, plus strength work
• Sleep and stress care
• Behaviour support such as food diary and counselling

Step 4: treat related conditions

Diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, thyroid disease, PCOS, sleep apnoea and joint problems.

Step 5: medicines when appropriate

Prescription medicines for selected adults, as part of the plan.

Step 6: surgery for severe obesity

Bariatric surgery for selected people after specialist assessment.

Step 7: maintenance

Keep the habits, follow up regularly, and expect ups and downs.

Where Ayurveda fits

Lifestyle ideas such as regular meals and daily movement may support the plan, but products claiming to burn fat should be avoided.

Remember

Be patient and kind to yourself. See a doctor before starting medicines or big changes. Emergencies call 112 or 102.

When to get help

See a doctor if you are gaining weight steadily, have a large waist or have symptoms such as breathlessness, snoring, joint pain or excessive thirst. Avoid crash diets, slimming teas and fat-burner products, and do not give herbs, supplements or weight-loss plans to children or teens without a paediatrician's advice. In an emergency call 112 or 102.