Sorry i think its v embarassing to ask this.
I am male, 35yo, n I fluctuate between 98-115kg depending on the time of the year. I am 175cm tall. yes I know I am fat. I have been trying over the last 5 years to lose weight, but I don’t know why i cannot…When i go below 98kg, I am very very hungry and grumpy to everyone. so I eat more and i gain back the weight easily.
I have tried OMAD, keto, everything. but nothing works. i know its hard to give more details in a post, just want to vent and see if anyone struggles like me. and for the drs, if you can tell me are there any weight loss magic. I heard about duromine and new prescription medicine like ozempic, but I’m scared of side effects. what about the balloon in the stomach, or bariatric surgery? anything to help will be great.
hope to hear from everyone, dr or not. tks.
As a general practitioner with a special interest in men’s health, I want to share some insights on sustainable weight loss. It’s a challenging journey, often marked by weight fluctuations due to short-term dieting, leading to weight rebound and significant frustration. A crucial factor for sustainable weight loss is long-term calorie reduction in a manageable way, such as reducing daily intake by 300 calories. This approach helps minimize mood disruptions. Successful patients often adopt lasting changes in eating behavior and lifestyle to maintain their desired weight.
For those struggling with binge eating and poor appetite control, prescription medications can be an option. The duration of use varies depending on the medication. For example, Duromine (phentermine) is an appetite suppressant suitable for very short-term use, often for specific events like a wedding. In contrast, newer medications like Ozempic, Rybelsus (semaglutide) and other GLP-1 agonists can be used for longer periods and are generally considered safe. They effectively reduce appetite and curb hunger cravings and binges. However, all prescription medications come with benefits and risks, so a consultation with a medical doctor is essential to determine individual suitability.
In addition to appetite control, I consider hormone dysfunction in men. Men with a body fat percentage of 25% or higher often have suboptimal testosterone levels and higher estradiol levels, hindering fat loss. Dieting can further lower testosterone levels, complicating weight loss and maintenance. Hormone dysfunctions can only be diagnosed through blood tests, which are not typically included in general health screenings and need to be specifically requested. Testosterone replacement therapy is an option for those with suboptimal hormone levels, but it requires a lifelong commitment and medical consultation. The most important thing is to be patient and not get discouraged. Weight loss takes time, consistency, and some trial and error to find the best approach for you. Regular check-ins with a primary care doctor can significantly support your weight loss journey. Best of luck! Feel free to reach out with any questions or for further clarification.
Dr HC Lee
https://sigmahealth.sg/
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The information provided on this forum is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for any medical concerns, diagnosis or treatment.
Hi Lucian, thank you for your open sharing about your struggles with weight loss. I can certainly empathise with the challenges you’ve faced, as many of my patients have experienced similarly.
As a gastroenterologist, I have experience with various weight loss interventions, including the use of gastric balloons like you asked. The gastric balloon is a deflated silicone balloon that is inserted into the stomach by swallowing grape size ball and then inflated inside the stomach. This takes up space in the stomach, which can help reduce appetite and promote feelings of fullness. In my practice, this balloon does not require surgery or endoscopy for insertion. After 4 months, the balloon will self-deflate and passes out naturally through the body.
The gastric balloon can be an effective option for many patients who have had difficulties achieving their weight loss goals through lifestyle changes alone. Patients who undergo the gastric balloon procedure lose on average 10-15% of their total body weight over the 16 week period the balloon is in place. If needed, after thorough assessment by doctors, this balloon can be combined with other weight loss therapy such as medication for enhanced weight loss outcomes.
The best weight management approach is highly personalised and depends on a variety of factors like your individual goals, overall health, lifestyle, personal preferences, and risk factors for obesity. There are a range of effective treatments available, and many people find success using a combination of different interventions over time.
I would encourage you to have an open discussion with your doctors to review your full health history, understand your specific needs and objectives, and then recommend the right combination of interventions to help you achieve safe, sustainable weight loss. Feel free to reach out to me if you would like to learn more.
Dr John Hsiang
Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist
https://richmondgastro.com.sg/
FB – Richmond Gastroenterology Centre
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The information provided on this forum is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for any medical concerns, diagnosis or treatment.