Portugal was one of the first countries to consider obesity as a disease. However, it is still not regarded as a serious pathology, despite being associated with numerous health problems and with a high impact on quality of life. Currently, around 53% of the Portuguese population is considered obese, with a growing prevalence also in younger age groups, so this disease is considered a very significant public health problem.
A person is considered obese if the Body Mass Index is equal to or greater than 30. This disease is multifactorial, caused by the ingestion of calories – above all, in the form of sugars and fats – in greater quantities than those necessary for the functioning of the organism. In parallel, genetic factors may influence the metabolic rate of each individual and, thus, make weight loss more difficult.
People with obesity are at increased risk for other health problems. The most common are type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, myocardial infarction and various types of cancer, such as colon or breast cancer. Obesity is also related to breathing problems and joint problems.
The best way to treat obesity is through changes in your diet and to habits related to the practice of physical activity. If you have weight problems, you should consult a nutritionist and, in tandem, a training monitoring professional, especially oriented towards weight loss.
At the Joaquim Chaves Saúde medical clinics, we have nutrition appointments for all types of weight-related situations. Follow-up by a nutritionist is essential, as he advises and clarifies the principles of healthy eating, contributing to the proper functioning of the body, facilitating or the treatment of numerous eating disorders, such as overweight, obesity and diabetes. The nutritionist also plays an important role in preventing eating disorders, which can increase the likelihood of the occurrence of numerous diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and degenerative diseases, including osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.
In our medical clinics, you also have specialist medical consultations where you can have access to an assessment, which will allow you to be referred in the best direction for your particular case. We have at your disposal world-renowned professionals and the most current procedures for the treatment of obesity by endoscopic means, such as, for example, the Apollo Method, a procedure for reducing the stomach, performed through the mouth, without cuts, scars or amputations, which favors the patient's quick recovery. This method is recommended as it is minimally invasive, very safe and highly effective.
At Joaquim Chaves Fitness, we provide a physical assessment, through which a professional prescribes a training plan, based on each person's individual goal. Physical activity is fundamental, as it allows preventing or combating different problems related to overweight and obesity.