Obesity is a medical condition that affects how your body stores and uses energy. It happens when excess body fat builds up over time and begins to affect your health.
Obesity can increase the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, joint pain and other chronic conditions. But there is good news. With the right support, sustainable habits and medical guidance, many people successfully improve their health and feel better — often with small, steady changes.
Understanding obesity
Obesity is typically measured using body mass index (BMI) — a calculation based on height and weight. While BMI doesn’t tell the whole story, it helps identify when weight may begin to affect overall health.
Obesity is not simply about willpower. It’s a complex condition influenced by genetics, hormones, environment, stress, sleep, medications and lifestyle habits. That’s why effective obesity management goes beyond dieting. It requires a personalized, medically informed approach.
If you’ve struggled with weight loss in the past, you’re not alone — and you’re not failing. Sustainable weight management often requires more than just eating less and moving more.
Health risks associated with obesity
Obesity increases the risk of several serious health conditions, including:
- Certain cancers
- Fatty liver disease
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Joint pain and arthritis
- Sleep apnea
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
Even modest weight loss — as little as 5% to 10% of your body weight — can significantly improve blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Signs it may be time to seek support
You may benefit from medical weight management if you:
- Have a BMI in the obesity range
- Struggle with one or more weight-related health conditions
- Have tried multiple diets without lasting results
- Feel frustrated or stuck in a cycle of weight loss and regain
We take a supportive, judgment-free approach. Our goal isn’t quick fixes — it’s long-term health.
Obesity treatment and weight management options
Effective obesity treatment looks different for everyone. We focus on practical strategies that fit your routine and your goals.
Your personalized plan may include:
Nutrition guidance
We help you build balanced meals with realistic changes you can maintain — not restrictive plans that leave you discouraged.
Physical activity
Movement doesn’t have to mean intense workouts. Walking, strength training and gradual increases in activity can make a meaningful difference.
Behavioral support
Stress, sleep and emotional health all play a role in weight management. We address the full picture.
Medical weight loss
For some patients, prescription medications, such as GLP-1s, may help regulate appetite or improve how the body processes food. We’ll discuss whether medical weight loss options are appropriate for you.
Support that meets you where you are
Sustainable change happens in small steps.
We focus on:
- Building consistent routines
- Setting realistic goals
- Celebrating progress
- Adjusting plans as your needs change
If you’re looking for extra support, our Get Healthy, Live Well classes offer practical guidance on nutrition, movement and healthy habits in a supportive group setting. These programs are a great complement to medical weight management. Sign up at tanner.org/classes-and-events.
When to seek help
If your weight is affecting your health, mobility, energy levels or confidence, it may be time to talk with a provider. Early support can help prevent long-term complications and improve overall well-being.
For urgent symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, call 911.