DR. ALI ZENTNER MD, FRCPC, Diplomat ABOM, Specialist, Internal Medicine and Obesity

Developing Effective Treatment Plans for Patients With Obesity
Common causes and risk factors
  • High-calorie diet and sugary beverages
  • Low levels of physical activity
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Lack of sleep
  • Stress and mental health factors
  • Certain medications (such as some antidepressants or steroids)
  • Medical conditions, such as Hypothyroidism or Cushing syndrome

Obesity is a medical condition in which a person has an excessive amount of body fat that increases the risk of health problems. It is influenced by a combination of genetics, biology, environment, lifestyle, medications, and other health conditions—not just diet or physical activity.

A common screening tool is the Obesity classification based on Body Mass Index (BMI):

  • BMI of 25.0–29.9: Overweight
  • BMI of 30.0 or higher: Obesity

However, BMI is only a screening measure and does not directly assess body fat or overall health.

Dr. Alexandro R. Zarruk Montreal

Medications For Weight Loss
Shared risk factors

Obesity and mental health conditions often share common influences, including:

  • Genetics
  • Poor sleep
  • Chronic stress
  • Limited access to nutritious foods
  • Physical inactivity
  • Socioeconomic challenges
  • Childhood adversity or trauma
 A pharmacy that specializes in obesity medications
    • Some pharmacies have expertise in dispensing weight-loss medications and counseling patients on their use.
    • They may stock medications such as Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, Orlistat, or other prescribed treatments, depending on your country and local regulations.
  • A pharmacy weight management service
    • Many community pharmacies offer:
      • Weight and BMI measurement
      • Lifestyle and nutrition advice
      • Medication reviews
      • Referrals to a doctor or specialist when appropriate
  • A pharmacy near you that provides obesity treatment
    • If you’re looking for a local pharmacy that offers weight management services or carries obesity medications, tell me:
      • Your city or ZIP/postal code, or
      • Say “near me,” and I can help you find one.

DR. ALI ZENTNER MD, FRCPC, Diplomat ABOM, Specialist, Internal Medicine and Obesity

Managing Obesity as a Multi-Faceted Chronic Disease
How mental health can contribute to obesity

Some mental health conditions and treatments can increase the risk of weight gain. For example:

  • Depression may reduce motivation for physical activity or lead to changes in eating habits.
  • Anxiety may contribute to emotional or stress-related eating in some people.
  • Chronic stress can increase levels of hormones such as cortisol, which may influence appetite and fat storage.
  • Some psychiatric medications, including certain antidepressants and antipsychotics, can cause weight gain as a side effect.

Obesity and mental health have a two-way relationship: mental health can affect body weight, and obesity can affect mental well-being. The connection is complex and involves biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors.

How obesity can affect mental health

People living with obesity may be at increased risk of:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Low self-esteem and negative body image
  • Social isolation
  • Weight stigma and discrimination
  • Reduced quality of life

These effects are not caused by body weight alone. Experiences such as bullying, bias in healthcare, discrimination, and societal pressure about appearance can significantly contribute to emotional distress.

Power of Nutrition in Obesity management

Nutrition can have a significant impact on Obesity

Dr Scott Bentley and Sarah Blundel RD

Educational video on nutrition and diabetes.

Sarah Ware RD

Are cucumbers a superfood - improving health through diet

Dr Akshay Jain, MD, FRCPC, Sarah Ware RD

Diabetes : The Health Benefits of Bell Peppers

Dr Dan Ezekiel, Sarah Ware RD

Weight Management - The Health Benefits of Beets

Power of Exercise in Obesity Management

Exercise can have a significant impact on Obesity

Mr. Nick Pratap, Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC

Home Exercise Program - Walking

Mr. Nick Pratap, Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC

Home Exercise Program - Plank

Mr. Nick Pratap, Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC

Home Exercise Program - Row

Dr Richaed Bebb Endocrinologist , Victoria.

Educational video What can cause obesity

Dr Richaed Bebb Endocrinologist , Victoria.

Educational video What are the Risks of Obesity

Dr. Alexandro R. Zarruk Montreal

Understanding Why Obesity is a Chronic Disease

Sarah Blundel Registered Dietician

The downside of crash dieting in regards to mental health .
Impact on Self-Care:
Mental health challenges can make it harder to follow your diabetes care plan, leading to poor blood sugar control. 
  • Increased Complications:

    Poor mental health can contribute to more significant diabetes-related health complications and earlier mortality. 

    Lower Quality of Life:
    The combined burden of diabetes and mental health issues can significantly reduce your overall quality of life