Individualizing the approach to treating obesity

Some 55% of American adults exceed the criteria for over-weight or obesity. Obesity contributes to numerous other illnesses including hypertension, type 2 diabetes, stroke, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, and some cancers. Although several prescription medications have been developed to treat obesity, these medications have serious adverse effects. The two broad categories of causes for obesity are psychologic factors and physiologic factors. The first line of therapy is prevention, but to successfully help patients with long-term weight loss, the clinician must consider proper diet, adequate exercise, a positive mental attitude, and using nutrients and dietary supplements that are safe and effective.