Weighing in on Better Health

By Dr. Margarita Victoria H. Galicia
Consultant, Endocrinology
Program Head, Asian Weight Management and Bariatric Center
Asian Hospital and Medical Center

Every body is different. Two individuals can consume the same amount of food and respond in completely different ways. One may gain weight easily, while the other remains unaffected. Some people can lose weight with just a little effort, while others struggle to shed a single pound, despite all their effort. Our bodies respond to food, activity, and health conditions uniquely. However, one thing is certain: excessive weight gain poses serious health risks, particularly obesity.

Understanding Obesity and Its Risks

Obesity is most commonly defined using the Body Mass Index (BMI), which is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters. For Asian adults, a BMI of 23 indicates pre-obesity or overweight, while a BMI of 25 or higher determines obesity.

Locally and around the world, the number of individuals affected by obesity continues to rise, affecting both children and adults. Numerous factors can contribute to weight gain, including genetic predisposition, certain medical conditions, sedentary lifestyle, and unhealthy food choices. Additionally, modern society has placed us in an obesogenic environment, where high-calorie food is readily available and opportunities for physical activity are limited.

No matter the cause, obesity is a medical condition that must be addressed. It significantly increases the risk of developing chronic health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.

The Art of Balance

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight involves a balancing act between the calories we consume and those that we burn through daily activity and exercise. When our calorie intake consistently exceeds what our body uses, the excess is stored as fat. Over time, this leads not only to increase in weight but also to excess fat being stored in different body organs, contributing to diseases like fatty liver, atherosclerosis, and insulin resistance.

So, how do we restore this balance? Lifestyle change is the foundation of any weight loss treatment. Adopting a new perspective on food, exercise, and self-care requires a shift in daily habits and not just a temporary solution. Sustainable results come from practices we can commit to for the long term and this can lead to weight loss that is more lasting.

When Medical Intervention Is Needed

Despite best efforts, some individuals may find it difficult to lose weight due to factors beyond their control, such as genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalances, or chronic medical conditions. In such cases, medical support becomes essential.

Fortunately, safe and effective treatments are available in the Philippines. At the Asian Weight Management and Bariatric Center of Asian Hospital, we offer a personalized and comprehensive approach to weight management. Our multidisciplinary team of specialists — including endocrinologists, cardiologists, medical nutritionists, pulmonologists, gastroenterologists, sleep specialists, psychiatrists, physiatrists, and metabolic surgeons — work together to create a treatment plan that is tailored to each individual’s needs.

We assess underlying metabolic conditions, conduct nutritional and cardiac evaluations, assess mental health, design supervised exercise programs, and, when necessary, recommend medical or surgical interventions. Our goal is to support every patient through their weight loss journey with expert care and compassion.

Support for Your Health Journey

Achieving better health does not have to be an overwhelming task, especially when you have the right team supporting you.

To learn more about how our experts can guide you towards a healthier lifestyle, call us at (02) 8-771-9000 or email info@asianhospital.com. For updates and health tips, follow Asian Hospital and Medical Center on social media.