Weight Management

Weight management is a routine applied to controlling weight issues. Weight management techniques include monitoring body mass and weight, understanding metabolism dieting and exercise. Weight management can also include psychological treatment for body issues, cravings and emotional problems 

• 80% of men eat too much salt
• Extreme dieting can cause osteoporosis
• Obesity in adults has quadrupled in the last 25 years
• Over 40% of the adult population want to lose weight 

Weight management is applied when an individual wants to, or is medically required to, control their weight. There are various weight issues that require weight management techniques or psychological treatment including obesity, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia) and diabetes. It can also be applied when a person has body issues about the shape and size of their body. Lesser known conditions such as lunago require weight management. (Lunago is the body's attempt to insulate the skin by growing excess hair due to a lack of fat.) 

Symtoms Of Weight Issues 

Symptoms of weight issues vary depending on the problem. Obesity symptoms include breathing difficulty, high blood pressure, increased heart rate, joint pain and low-self esteem. Eating disorder symptoms can include induced vomiting, purging and weight fluctuation.

A poor diet that lacks the necessary vitamins and minerals can carry a variety of risks. A lack of vitamin A and vitamin D (found in cheese, eggs, oily fish) can lead to a weak immune system and weak, aching bones and muscles. Vitamin B6 deficiency causes depression or irritability while deficiency of vitamin B12 (found in meat, salmon and eggs) can cause anaemia. A lack of vitamin C (in oranges, broccoli and cabbage) can lead to fatigue, bleeding gums and loose teeth. Severe vitamin C deficiency is known as 'scurvy'.

Calcium mineral deficiency causes bone and tooth decay. A lack of potassium found in bananas, vegetables and nuts can cause nausea, diarrhoea and irregular heartbeat. A deficiency in zinc (found in shellfish, milk and wheat germ) can lead to hair loss and skin problems.

Before an appropriate weight management routine is applied a GP should diagnose what the weight issue is and discuss any concerns. However, admitting to an eating disorder is extremely difficult and many people are unable to do so without help. Family and friends often intervene to help the individual confront their problem by taking them to see their GP who can make an accurate diagnosis or refer them to a mental healthcare professional.

A GP will discuss eating habits and check weight and body mass index (BMI). A person with anorexia for example will weigh 15% less than average and their BMI will be around 17.5 (normal range is 20-25). The GP will also take blood pressure readings and an electrocardiograph (ECG) reading as anorexia sufferers are at risk of heart conditions. 

*Source: GoToSee.co.uk

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