Obesity

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Adjustable gastric banding	Biliopancreatic diversion (BPD)	Different types of weight gain	Lipocytes (fat cells)
Obesity and health	Roux-en-Y stomach surgery for weight loss	Vertical banded gastroplasty

Fat - obese

Tips for preventing weight gain: 

• Avoid foods that are high in fat and sugar.
• Reduce how much alcohol you drink.
• Avoid stress, frustration, and boredom.
• If you are depressed, seek medical treatment.

Avoid a sedentary lifestyle by increasing your activity level:

• Perform aerobic exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, 3 times a week .
• Increase physical activity by walking rather than driving.
• Climb stairs rather than using an elevator or escalator.
• Always talk to your health care provider before starting an exercise program.

For additional help in losing weight:

• Join a support group (see eating disorders - support group). Many people find it easier to follow a diet and exercise program if they join a group of people with similar problems.
• Be sure to set realistic goals for weight loss. A loss of 1 to 2.5 pounds a week may seem slow, but losing weight too fast often does not work. Weight lost quickly usually comes back quickly.

See: Losing weight

• You are unable to lose weight on your own.

The health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your medical history. Questions may include:

• Time pattern
  • Has you always tended to be heavy?  
  • Is this recent weight gain? 
• Eating habits
  • Have you changed your diet?
  • Have your eating habits changed?
  • What percent of the daily calories are from fat?
  • How many meals do you eat in a day? What type of foods?
  • How many snacks do you eat in a day? What type of snacks?
• Exercise habits
  • Has your activity level changed?
  • Has there been a decrease in your daily activity?
• Other factors
  • Have you had an increase in emotional stress?
  • Are you drinking more alcohol? 
  • What other symptoms are occurring at the same time?

Skin fold measurements may be taken to assess body composition. Blood studies to test endocrine function may be performed.

Treatment:

Even modest weight loss can improve your health. It is important to work with your health care provider or dietician to develop a plan that is best for you. For most people, weight can be lost by eating a healthier diet, exercising more, and adopting new behaviors such as keeping a food diary, avoiding food triggers, and thinking positively.