Weight Loss Specialist

Why is it Hard to Lose Weight?

Dr. Rozehzadeh will tell you that willpower is a minor factor; he himself embarked on lifestyle changes to lose weight and improve his health. One reason weight loss is hard is that for thousands of years, food was scarce and famines occurred relatively frequently. Those who survived to pass on their genes were able to maintain or gain weight on less food. Secondly, most people were extremely active until a few generations ago, which helped keep them from becoming overweight. Today, Americans live much more sedentary lifestyles.

How Do I Know if I'm Overweight?

The body mass index (BMI) is what most doctors use to determine if someone is overweight or obese. BMI is a mathematical calculation that compares body height to weight. The equation indicates what percentage of the body weight is fat. “Normal” BMI is 18.5 to 24.9, while a BMI of 25 to 29.9 is overweight. A BMI above 30 is considered obese. The BMI is less useful if the patient is very muscular, as muscle weighs more than fat; an athlete with a BMI of 26 or 27 might not really be overweight in the sense of being too fat.

What's the Difference Between Overweight and Obesity?

Technically, the difference of overweight and obese is A BMI of 29.9 or a BMI of 30. In reality, people who truly are obese face many more health risks. Heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure have all been linked to obesity. Obesity stresses hip, knee and ankle joints and increases the risk of degenerative joint disease. Those who are obese also tend to be less physically fit, which shortens their lifespans.

What is Medical Weight Loss?

Programs like Weight Watchers may help people lose weight, but medical weight loss is different. All patients receive a medical evaluation as well as laboratory testing and diagnostic workups to identify health issues like diabetes. A medical weight loss program is tailored to the individual patient's needs, metabolism and food preferences. Dr. Rozehzadeh works with a dietitian and provides a comprehensive approach to which he has personal experience.