Weight Loss and Obesity Management in Singapore
Obesity is more than just a number on the scale—it is a complex, multifactorial chronic condition influenced by environmental, biological, and social factors. It is defined as excess body fat (adiposity) that can negatively affect health and lead to numerous chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and even some types of cancer.
At LG Endocrinology, we work closely with you to develop a personalised weight loss care plan to help you achieve better health. Book an appointment with us today.
How Is Obesity Diagnosed?
Doctors commonly define obesity using the body mass index (BMI), which is calculated based on a person’s weight and height. BMI does not directly measure body fat percentage and may not account for other factors, such as muscle mass or bone density. Therefore, additional assessments, such as waist circumference, are used to gain a more accurate picture of obesity.
The cutoffs to determine whether you are overweight or obese are as follows:
- Overweight: BMI between 23 and 25
- Obesity: BMI of 25 or greater
Note: The cutoff values for BMI may vary depending on ethnicity. The classification mentioned above is for Asians; the thresholds for White, Hispanic, or Black individuals may differ.
Cause of Obesity
Obesity results from a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Some key causes include:
- Diet: Eating calorie-dense, processed, and sugary foods contributes to excessive energy intake.
- Insufficient physical activity: A lack of regular exercise slows metabolism and reduces calorie burning.
- Sedentary behaviour: Prolonged screen time, such as watching TV or using computers, limits movement and lowers energy expenditure.
- Pregnancy and early-life factors: Unhealthy maternal habits during pregnancy and childhood weight gain can increase the risk of obesity later in life.
- Sleep deprivation: Inadequate sleep disrupts hunger-regulating hormones, increasing appetite and food intake.
- Medications: Certain drugs, like antidepressants, corticosteroids, and antipsychotics, can lead to weight gain over time.
- Hormonal imbalances: Conditions like hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and Cushing’s syndrome affect metabolism and promote fat accumulation.
When to See an Endocrinologist for Weight Loss and Obesity Management
Consulting an endocrinologist can be a crucial step in effectively managing weight loss and addressing obesity, especially when underlying hormonal factors may be contributing to weight challenges. Here are key indicators that suggest it may be time to seek the expertise of an endocrinologist:
1. Persistent weight gain or difficulty losing weight
If you have been adhering to a healthy diet and regular exercise regimen without achieving significant weight loss, it could indicate an underlying hormonal imbalance. Endocrinologists specialise in identifying and treating imbalances that may hinder weight loss efforts.
2. Symptoms indicative of hormonal imbalances
Certain signs may suggest hormonal issues affecting your weight, including:
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight changes/difficulty losing weight
- Excessive hunger
- Menstrual irregularities
These signs may point to insulin resistance or thyroid problems, which can be managed by an endocrinologist.
3. History of endocrine disorders
A personal or family history of endocrine disorders, such as diabetes, thyroid diseases, or PCOS, can increase the risk of weight-related issues. An endocrinologist can provide tailored care for these conditions.
4. Presence of metabolic syndrome components
Metabolic syndrome encompasses a cluster of conditions that elevate the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Key components include high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and high blood sugar levels.
Managing Obesity and Weight Loss in Singapore
There are a few treatments available for weight loss, ranging from lifestyle changes to weight loss medications, hormonal therapy and surgery.
Comprehensive lifestyle intervention
The initial management for all individuals who would benefit from weight loss is a comprehensive lifestyle intervention: a combination of diet, exercise and behavioural modification.
Many types of diets produce modest weight loss. Options include balanced low-calorie, low-fat/low-calorie, moderate fat/low-calorie, or low-carbohydrate diets, as well as the Mediterranean diet.
Regardless of the type of diet chosen, dietary adherence is the key to sustainable long-term weight loss. At our clinic, we assist you with tailoring a diet that reduces energy intake to each patient’s preferences. Dietary counselling and continued monitoring are key ingredients for treatment success.
Increasing energy expenditure through physical activity is a strong predictor of weight loss maintenance. To prevent weight gain and improve cardiovascular health, physical activity should be performed for approximately 30 minutes or more, five to seven days a week.
Activity should be gradually increased with time as tolerated. Furthermore, a multi-component program which includes aerobic and resistance training is preferred.
This includes quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake. The goal of behavioural therapy is to help patients make long-term changes in their eating behaviour by modifying and monitoring their food intake, modifying physical activity and controlling cues and stimuli in their environment that trigger eating.
Weight loss medications
Weight loss medications are a helpful component in the treatment regimen for individuals with obesity. It can be considered in those with:
- BMI > 27 with weight-related health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol
- BMI > 30
Some of the common weight loss medications are:
| Type of medication## | Examples | Effect | Weight loss** (% from baseline) |
|---|---|---|---|
Incretin based therapy (GLP1 hormone) |
| Modulates the action of insulin and its related hormones in the body. Controls appetite and promotes fullness. | Up to 15% |
Dual Incretin based therapy (GLP-1 and GIP) |
| Modulates the action of insulin and its related hormones in the body. Controls appetite and promotes fullness. | Up to 23% |
Sympathomimetic drugs |
| Suppresses appetite. Medication is usually only for short-term use. | 4 – 5% |
Sympathomimetic/antiepileptic drug combination |
| Suppresses appetite | 7.9 – 9.8% |
Lipase inhibitor |
| Reduces fat absorption | 5 – 9.6% |
**Results may vary depending on the individual
## Your doctor will assess your suitability for each medication
Hormonal evaluation
Hormonal evaluation may be recommended as part of the assessment of obesity. This is part of your comprehensive assessment of weight management. Untreated hormonal imbalances such as hypothyroidism or excess cortisol may contribute to weight gain and difficulty losing weight.
The transition period during menopause may also cause weight gain and difficulty losing weight. Our doctor will work with you to assess your need and suitability for hormone replacement for overall health management and well-being.
Weight loss surgery
Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is a medical procedure designed to help individuals with severe obesity achieve significant and sustainable weight loss. It is typically recommended for those who:
- Have a BMI over 37.5 kg/m²
- Have a BMI over 32.5 kg/m² with obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obstructive sleep apnea, or joint problems
- Have tried and failed to lose weight through lifestyle changes or medical treatments
There are a variety of surgical procedures available for obesity management. Some examples are sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass. These procedures may allow weight loss of up to 25 – 35%.
Our Specialist in Weight Loss and Obesity Management
Dr Linsey Gani
Consultant Endocrinologist
MBBS (Aust), B Med Sci, FRACP (Endocrine), FAMS (S’pore), MPH (Harvard), Clinical Assistant Professor (Duke-NUS Medical School)
Languages: English, Mandarin, Bahasa Indonesia
Dr Gani is an experienced endocrinologist in the treatment of weight management and metabolic health. She completed her residency in Melbourne, Australia and is a fellow of the Royal Australian College of physician and the Academy of Medicine, Singapore.
Why Choose Us?
Every obesity and weight loss journey is unique. Dr Gani tailors treatment strategies, including lifestyle modifications and medical therapies, to suit your needs and long-term health goals.
Dr Gani combines medical expertise with a science-backed approach to help individuals achieve their weight loss goals safely and effectively.
At LG Endocrinology, we prioritise open communication and a non-judgemental approach, ensuring you receive the confidence and support you need throughout your weight loss journey.
FAQs About Weight Loss and Obesity
How do I know if I am at a healthy weight?
BMI is a common tool used to assess weight status. The categories are as follows:
- Underweight: <18.5
- Normal weight: 18.5 – 22.9
- Overweight: 23 – 24.9
- Obese (Class 1): 25 – 29.9
- Obese (Class 2): ≥30
While BMI provides a general guideline, it does not capture all aspects of health. A person with a lower BMI may still have health issues, while someone with a higher BMI could be metabolically healthy.
For a more holistic view of your weight and health, doctors may measure waist circumference to assess central obesity, which refers to excess fat around the abdomen. This type of fat distribution is linked to higher health risks, including cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders.
Take a health screening or speak to a doctor to find out if you are at a healthy weight.
How does my weight affect my health?
Excess weight, particularly obesity, significantly increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, certain cancers, and sleep apnea. These conditions can lead to serious complications and reduced quality of life.
Are weight loss treatments effective?
Weight loss treatments are generally effective. A combination of lifestyle changes and medications can help individuals achieve a 5–15% reduction in baseline weight, while some treatments, like bariatric surgery, offer even greater potential for weight loss.
In general, sustainable weight loss is best achieved through a combination of strategies tailored to each individual’s needs and health conditions. However, results can vary significantly based on individual factors and adherence to treatment plans.
Why should I see an endocrinologist for weight loss and obesity?
Obesity is a complex metabolic condition influenced by various factors including hormone imbalances. If left untreated, it can lead to various endocrine-related conditions such as diabetes, PCOS, and osteoporosis.
Seeing an endocrinologist can help identify underlying causes related to hormonal health such as hypothyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome, insulin resistance etc. It can also help support long-term weight management and overall health by treating conditions holistically.
Book an appointment today to discuss how we can support your journey toward better metabolic health.
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Dr. Linsey Gani Endocrinology
10 Sinaran Drive, #10-08, Novena Medical Center, Singapore 307506
+65 6397 7101
+65 9128 7480
Monday - Friday
08:30 - 12:30
14:00 - 17:30
09:00-12:00
Closed
Monday - Friday
08:30 - 12:30
14:00 - 17:30
09:00 - 12:00
Closed