Obesity and overweight are common conditions that can have a variety of underlying causes. From a functional medicine perspective, obesity and overweight are viewed as symptoms of an underlying issue in the body, rather than a condition in and of themselves. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and treatments of obesity and overweight from a functional medicine perspective.

Symptoms of obesity and overweight

Obesity and overweight can present in many different ways, depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms of obesity and overweight include:

• Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen
• Increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer
• Difficulty with physical activity or exercise
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Sleep apnea or other sleep disorders
• Joint pain or mobility issues

Causes of obesity and overweight

Obesity and overweight can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Overeating
• Lack of exercise or physical activity
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Chronic stress and emotional trauma
• Environmental toxins
• Genetic predisposition
• Medical conditions such as hypothyroidism or insulin resistance
• Side effects of medications or treatments

Treatments for obesity and overweight

The treatment of obesity and overweight from a functional medicine perspective typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and targeted supplements or medications. Some common treatments for obesity and overweight may include:

• Stress reduction techniques such as meditation or yoga
• Dietary changes such as reducing sugar and processed food intake and increasing consumption of whole foods
• Nutritional supplementation with key nutrients such as vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber
• Balancing hormones through targeted supplementation or medication
• Reducing exposure to environmental toxins
• Addressing underlying inflammation or infection through targeted supplementation or medication
• Incorporating regular physical activity or exercise

Tests for obesity and overweight

• Blood sugar
• Cholesterol
• General health
• Gut tests
• SIBO
• Hormone tests: Adrenals, Estrogen & progesterone, Men’s hormones, Women’s hormones
• Nutrition tests: Amino acids, Fatty acids, Minerals, Vitamins (A, B3, B5 & Biotin), Vitamins (B12, folate, D, E & Q10), Vitamins (All)
• Neurotransmitters: Basic, Plus
• Heavy metals

In conclusion, obesity and overweight are complex conditions that can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. From a functional medicine perspective, obesity and overweight are viewed as symptoms of an underlying issue in the body. By identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the condition through a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and targeted supplements or medications, patients can find relief from their symptoms and achieve optimal health and wellness.