In the United States the prevalence of obesity among adults is 42%. There are disparities by race and ethnicity with a 49% prevalence among Black adults and 40% for Hispanics compared to the lowest rates in Asians at 17.4%. Mississippi and West Virginia have the highest prevalence of obesity compared to places like Colorado. Obesity is defined by a body mass index of 30 or higher. How do you figure out your ideal BMI? There are many calculators online. An ideal BMI should be between 18.5-24.9.
For example, if you are 5’2” your ideal body weight is 120. If you are 5’7” your ideal body weight is 140. Most of us would miss the mark. Why? because the best tasting most affordable food is calorie packed. We are slowly killing ourselves.
You don’t need me to tell you that obesity kills. It is the leading cause of hypertension, diabetes, heart attack, stroke and cancer….and yet our addiction to sugar and fat is a harder habit to break than heroin.
This podcast will discuss gastric surgery for the treatment of obesity. Dr. Aileen Takahashi is a surgeon trained in general surgery , trauma and critical care. She is the queen of gastric surgery and this interview will tell you all about the different techniques, success rates and risk factors. She currently practices in Torrance with the Association of Southbay Surgeons. She is an incredible surgeon and friend. I am so happy to introduce her to you. You can find her at the following website: https://southbaysurgeons.com/profile/aileen-m-takahashi/
As always, please feel free to send me a message through Instagram @dr.elenarodriguez or email: elena@thevagenius.com if you have any questions. Please share, comment and subscribe.