The Biggest Problem With Obesity In America

Chronic disease has reached epidemic proportions.

For the first time in history, more people die from chronic disease than infectious disease. We’ve cured polio, but heart disease is still on the rise.

According to the CDC, chronic conditions affect half the adult population. This results in “adverse health outcomes, increased health care needs, and higher medical costs.”

The CDC affirms many people experience “multiple chronic conditions (MCC)”. This has added “a layer of complexity to […] prevention and intervention strategies.”

Our modern medical system is designed for “one symptom, one drug”. This symptom-oriented  approach is a poor match for multiple chronic conditions. Drugs treat symptoms, but they don’t treat the underlying causes of disease.

There is a clear link between alcoholism and obesity, as excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to weight gain and the development of obesity. Alcohol is high in calories and offers little to no nutritional value, leading to an increase in calorie intake without providing essential nutrients. Moreover, alcohol can stimulate appetite and disrupt normal hunger signals, leading individuals to consume more food, often in the form of unhealthy, calorie-dense options. Additionally, alcohol affects the body’s metabolism, causing it to prioritize the breakdown of alcohol over other nutrients, which can result in the accumulation of fat in the body. Alcohol can also impair judgment and self-control, leading to overeating and poor dietary choices for which you may also need behavioural addiction therapy, just like with alcohol.

Furthermore, alcohol abuse often leads to a sedentary lifestyle, as excessive drinking can decrease motivation for physical activity. This combination of increased calorie intake, poor food choices, slowed metabolism, and reduced physical activity significantly contributes to weight gain and obesity in individuals struggling with alcoholism. Addressing both alcohol addiction and obesity requires a comprehensive approach that includes not only sobriety and therapy but also a focus on adopting a healthy lifestyle that incorporates balanced nutrition and regular physical activity.

And drugs are known for their dangerous side effects and contraindications. The word “contraindications” means “they don’t play well together”.

The most prominent of multiple chronic conditions is metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a major contributor to heart disease risk and type II diabetes. 1 of 3 adults in the United States suffers from metabolic syndrome.

You may have it if you have any of these conditions:

• Elevated glucose levels and insulin resistance,
• Lipid imbalances marked by high triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol,
• High blood pressure,
• Central obesity (“an apple shape”), and
• Chronic inflammation

Where Do You Turn For Help?

Conventional wisdom tells you to “remember the basics.” They tell you “the only way to reduce visceral fat is to lose weight — and the only way to do that is to burn up more calories with exercise than you take in from food. Sustained weight loss requires both caloric restriction and increased exercise.”

I can tell you from first hand experience that’s a recipe for failure. If you want to know how to lose weight and keep it off, schedule a confidential call with me.