While it is common to say that obesity is a genetic disorder (i.e. some genes governing metabolism may be predominant), this is only true in rare cases. More often than not, what we really inherit from our family are unfavourable dietary habits.
Except in cases of secondary obesity, which may be caused by endocrine disorders or genetic disorders such as the Prader-Willi syndrome, common obesity usually derives from an imbalance between physical activity and nutrition.
Obesity requires a multidisciplinary therapeutic approach, ideally carried out in a specialized center.
Nutrition : First of all, you should see a nutritionist who may or may not be specialized in endocrinology. There should be several medical consultations, initially at least, so that the practitioner can assess the degree, the severity and the causes of your obesity and adapt his treatment accordingly. Remember that currently, this treatment can only be based on dietetics.
Most dietary drugs have been banned from use in France because of their side effects. The appointment with a nutritionist (which, in France, is reimbursed by the national health system) may be supplemented by a meeting with a dietician who can provide further guidance and adjust the new dietary habits.
Nutritional monitoring is essential. Before considering anything else, the patient's progress should be followed up for at least 6 months. Weight loss is always interesting to monitor, at the very least in the early stages, but patients often find themselves suffering from what they may call the "yo-yo syndrome". This is especially true when they want to try a "fashionable" diet and misunderstand its implications.
Psychiatrists can support patients suffering from depression while being followed by a psychologist may prove truly valuable. As for behavioral analysts, they can help change the way patients eat in relation to psychological disturbances they may experience. Moreover, contact with other patients, especially through associations, can help significantly.
However, procedures such as fat removal, liposuction or abdominal lipectomy will not help with weight loss, although they may affect the body more directly. Weight is regained very quickly after these procedures, which is why they are only performed when a stable weight loss has been achieved.
