Obesity and Weight Loss with Endocrinologist Rocio Salas-Whalen
Sep 23, 2022
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Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, owner of New York Endocrinology and a renowned expert in diabetes and obesity, dives into the evolving understanding of obesity as a chronic disease. She discusses its complex ties to type 2 diabetes and the rising awareness post-COVID-19. The conversation highlights groundbreaking GLP-1 and GIP medications that reshape the weight loss landscape, discussing their benefits and psychological impacts on food cravings. Dr. Salas-Whalen also addresses the challenges posed by insurance companies in treating obesity, pushing for a more proactive medical approach.
Obesity is increasingly recognized as a complex, chronic disease, necessitating a multifaceted approach to its treatment beyond traditional lifestyle changes.
Recent advancements in obesity medications, particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists, have shown significant promise in facilitating weight loss and improving metabolic health.
Deep dives
Understanding Obesity as a Chronic Disease
Obesity is increasingly recognized as a chronic, multifactorial disease rather than merely a lifestyle issue. This change in understanding began with the World Health Organization's classification in 1942 and was reinforced by the American Medical Association in 2013. The podcast highlights how this new perspective allows healthcare providers to better address the underlying causes of obesity, linking it closely with conditions such as type 2 diabetes and metabolic disorders. Professionals are now encouraged to discuss obesity in-depth, focusing on the complexities rather than oversimplified solutions like 'eat less, exercise more.'
Impact of COVID-19 on Perceptions of Obesity
The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the focus on obesity due to its correlation with increased severity of the disease among those with higher body mass indices. Studies indicate that individuals with obesity faced higher rates of ICU admission and mortality during the pandemic. This new evidence has sparked conversations among patients and healthcare providers about the urgent need to address weight management not just as a personal concern, but a public health priority. Many patients reported seeking guidance during this period, motivated by fears of severe complications related to COVID-19.
The Role of Detailed Patient Histories in Obesity Management
Taking a comprehensive patient history is crucial for effective obesity treatment, as it reveals lifelong patterns regarding weight and food relationships. Clinicians are encouraged to ask patients about their earliest memories related to weight and dietary habits, uncovering emotional ties and societal influences that affect their current health. This shift towards understanding the psychological and emotional aspects of weight management recognizes that obesity often stems from deeper issues rather than mere lack of willpower. By addressing these underlying factors, healthcare providers can better support patients on their journey to weight loss and improved health.
Pharmacological Advances in Weight Management
Recent advancements in obesity medications, particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists, have shown remarkable results in facilitating weight loss for those struggling with obesity. These medications not only enhance weight loss but also contribute to improved metabolic health, making them a significant breakthrough in treating the condition. The podcast discusses various medications available, including semaglutide and its effectiveness in achieving substantial weight loss compared to traditional methods. It also emphasizes the importance of medical supervision when using these drugs, as they come with potential side effects that require careful management.
In today’s episode of the podcast, I interview Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, owner of New York Endocrinology on Park Avenue. Dr. Salas-Whalen has deep expertise in diabetes, metabolism, obesity, thyroid abnormalities and other endocrine disorders. She completed her internal medicine residency at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and her endocrinology fellowship at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore. Additionally, she was a research fellow at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and is board certified in Obesity Medicine.
We will be discussing obesity and weight loss. The definition of obesity has changed significantly in the last few years. In 1942, WHO classified obesity as a chronic disease. In 2013, the American Medical Association accepted it as a chronic metabolic and multifactorial disease.