Everyday Wellness with Cynthia Thurlow ™

Ep. 384 Why Weight Loss is Complex: Obesity’s Multi-Factorial Nature with Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen

Aug 3, 2024

59:01

Today, I am privileged to speak with Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen. She is a triple board-certified physician with extensive expertise in all aspects of endocrinology, focusing on women's health and obesity.

Dr. Salas-Whalen believes that effective care should be tailored to the specific needs of each individual, as every patient is unique. In our discussion today, we explore the obesity epidemic, challenging the notion that obesity is simply a lifestyle-driven disease. We examine various factors contributing to obesity, clarifying why BMI is ineffective for assessing body composition and discussing the implications of sarcopenic obesity and visceral fat. Dr. Salas-Whalen offers valuable insights into the specific issues faced by perimenopausal and menopausal women, including the role of hormone replacement therapy and the increasing use of medications like GLP-1s. She emphasizes the complexity of weight loss, advocating for responsible prescribing and recognizing that obesity is controllable yet not curable.

I trust that you will love this conversation with Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen and find it both enlightening and informative. Stay tuned for more.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

The five causes of obesity
How portion sizes are distorted in the US, leading to overeating and obesity
Why BMI is an outdated tool and not the gold standard for body composition
Why education on reading labels and making healthier choices is essential
What is sarcopenic obesity?
Why visceral fat is more problematic than subcutaneous fat
How HRT can improve body composition
Why it is essential to find a practitioner who aligns with your goals and values
How so many women struggle with self-care and advocating for themselves
Why strength training and increasing protein intake are essential for middle-aged women struggling with weight loss resistance
How obesity medications have evolved over time
How GLP-1 medication can help those struggling with binge eating and weight management