After a breakup, Van attempted a crash diet with intermittent fasting, losing nearly 5 kg. However, this was followed by uncontrollable food cravings. Over 10 months, the 1,6-meter-tall woman gained 35 kg, reaching 90 kg. At Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM, Van was diagnosed with the highest degree of obesity, complicated by fatty liver, dyslipidemia, and high blood sugar, indicating a risk of type 2 diabetes.

Doctor Lam Van Hoang, Head of Endocrinology - Diabetes, stated that Van's obesity resulted from an eating disorder. He explained that this creates a two-way interaction, accelerating both conditions if left untreated.

Doctor Hoang advises Van on treatment. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Individuals with this disorder often experience guilt after meals, sometimes resorting to self-induced vomiting or laxative use. However, these methods can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, resulting in cardiac arrhythmia, low blood pressure, anemia, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Nutritional deficiencies in those with eating disorders can also cause hormonal imbalances, decreased libido, and menstrual cycle irregularities or amenorrhea.

Doctors prescribed weight loss medication combined with psychological therapy for Van. The treatment plan focuses on reducing calorie intake, prioritizing fruits, salads, and low-sugar yogurt to manage cravings. Before each main meal, Van consumes plenty of vegetables and salads to reduce her intake of starches and other primary food items.

An exercise specialist designed a regimen to enhance oxygen utilization, improve basal metabolism, and reduce visceral fat. This regimen also aims to stimulate the production of serotonin and endorphins, two hormones known to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and combat depression. Van walks for 10-20 minutes after each meal and incorporates muscle-strengthening exercises guided by a trainer, tailored to her fitness level and health.

After a short period on medication, her cravings gradually diminished, and she felt full more quickly, leading to a reduction in food intake. In the first month, Van lost 6 kg and continues the treatment plan with a goal of losing 25-30 kg.

According to Doctor Hoang, obesity and eating disorders can have a bidirectional impact, with nearly 30% of female patients with eating disorders having previously experienced obesity. He emphasized that eating disorders, particularly binge eating leading to obesity, are treatable with medication and psychological therapy.

By Duc Hanh

*Patient's name has been changed