A COMPLICATED ISSUE

While the physical ramifications of being overweight may seem obvious at a glance, obesity has a dramatic range of social, psychological and emotional consequences as well. Together, the mental and physical effects of obesity form a complex web of variables that often seem overwhelming to those interested in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Medical issues make much needed exercise regimes frustrating and embarrassing, while the depression and fatigue often associated with excess weight serve to lower motivation. The result is a vicious cycle that undermines determination, reinforces negative behavior and perpetuates the disease.

SOCIAL EFFECTS

Right or wrong, our society equates beauty with slimness. Americans place different rules on different body types, and as a result, those even slightly overweight are often treated as separate from the norm, ridiculed and restricted from social activities. In addition, the obese face enormous physical and social challenges every day, simply due to their large size. Drawbacks such as limits in clothing styles and availability, issues of public seating, ill-suited travel accommodations, and fewer career options all serve to reinforce the negative stereotype and give rise to feelings of inadequacy that result in depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.

BENEFITS OF WEIGHT-LOSS

Those who have accomplished a dramatic loss in weight, whether from a medical plan or weight-loss surgery, will often remark that it "saved their life." And in many cases, this is no exaggeration. Losing a large amount of weight can make all the difference between a life of simple survival and one of honest fulfillment. The physical and emotional improvements experienced after extensive weight-loss can be extremely dramatic. Here are just a few of the possibilities:

• Reduction or Elimination of Medications
• Improvement or Disappearance of Sleep Apnea
• Reduction or Elimination of Joint and Lower Back Pain
• Improved Self-Image
• Increased Happiness
• Higher Levels of Energy
• Increase in Number of Career Options
• Improved Social Life
• Stronger Personal Relationships
• Better Overall Health
• Longer Life Span
• Greater Sense of Self-Confidence

With the proper weight-loss program and a commitment to healthier living, patients are often amazed at the improvements to everyday life, experiencing newfound happiness in acts as simple as the ease of tying one's own shoes. At Coast Plaza, our partnership with New Reflections symbolizes our desire to be a part of that commitment. We are proud to be able to offer our support as patients embark on the journey to change not just their body type, but their self-image as well.

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Health Risks
The Facts

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Medical Weight-loss Program
Surgical Weight-Loss Program