Loan experienced rapid weight gain after puberty due to an unbalanced diet. She had attempted various diets, exercise regimens, and weight loss medications, but none proved effective. Recently, experiencing insomnia, stress, and anxiety, she sought medical attention at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi.

Measuring 1,61 m tall and weighing 111,3 kg, Loan had a body mass index (BMI) of 42,94. Doctor Le Ba Ngoc, from the Weight Control and Obesity Treatment Clinic, diagnosed her with class two obesity, type 2 diabetes, grade three fatty liver, and prolonged stress contributing to an eating disorder.

A doctor consults with Loan on her treatment plan. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Her doctors developed a personalized, multidisciplinary weight loss plan encompassing endocrinology, nutrition, physical activity, and psychological support. Loan was prescribed medication for obesity and blood sugar control. Her body mass index, visceral fat, blood sugar, liver enzymes, and blood lipids were closely monitored to ensure safety and efficacy.

Loan's dietary plan emphasized a complete breakfast, prioritizing green vegetables, fiber, and lean protein. It involved a phased reduction of carbohydrates, strict limits on sugar and salt, and the avoidance of processed foods. This regimen was designed to control caloric intake while providing sufficient nutrients to maintain muscle mass and prevent weight regain.

For physical activity, Loan began with low-impact exercises to protect her joints and cardiovascular system. She committed to at least 150 minutes per week of walking, cycling, swimming, or other endurance-building activities, gradually increasing intensity as her health improved. Concurrently, she received psychological counseling to manage stress, improve sleep, and curb emotional eating. This included advice to avoid alcohol and caffeine, and to engage in calming activities like reading or listening to music before bed.

After six months of adhering to the regimen, Loan lost nearly 14 kg, approximately 12% of her body weight. Her blood sugar, liver enzyme, and blood lipid levels showed improvement, and she reported deeper sleep and a more relaxed mental state. She continues her medication, energy-controlled diet, and regular exercise until her health indicators reach safe levels.

Doctor Ngoc explained that prolonged accumulation of visceral fat releases harmful substances and increases free fatty acids, leading to insulin resistance. This can contribute to various metabolic cardiovascular diseases, cancer, infections, and fatty liver. Moreover, overweight and obesity can worsen knee and spinal osteoarthritis. Beyond physical health issues, individuals with obesity face an increased risk of psychological problems, including depression.

Doctors advise young people experiencing rapid weight gain, especially when accompanied by fatigue, insomnia, shortness of breath, or emotional disturbances, to seek early medical consultation. They strongly caution against self-medicating with weight loss drugs or adopting extreme diets or exercise regimens.

By Ha Nhung

*Patient's name has been changed.