Obesity is a complex disease that affects a little over 42% of the United States population. A little over 30% of the population is considered “overweight.” All in all, more than two-thirds of U.S. adults in the United States are overweight or have obesity.  With just under 40% of Alabamians qualifying as obese, Alabama now has the third highest rate of obesity in the country. 

Obesity is often associated with poor metabolic health, which can lead to a host of chronic diseases. We have to take obesity seriously.  The good news is that treating obesity as a chronic disease can improve poor metabolic health, leading to better overall health outcomes.

So what is “metabolic health” exactly?

Metabolic health refers to the state of our body’s metabolic processes.  These processes encompass many aspects of our overall health, including how efficiently our bodies convert food into energy, how well we regulate blood sugar levels, and how effectively we burn fat. Good metabolic health is characterized by healthy levels of blood glucose, blood pressure, triglycerides, and cholesterol. Poor metabolic health, on the other hand, is characterized by high blood sugar levels, high blood pressure, high triglycerides, low HDL (good) cholesterol, and excess belly fat. Poor metabolic health can be caused by something such as a  diet high in processed foods and sugar. Genetics, on the other hand, which we cannot control also play a significant role.

Is there a link between obesity and metabolic health? Short answer: yes.

Obesity is a major risk factor for poor metabolic health. Excess body fat, particularly belly fat, can lead to insulin resistance, a condition in which the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This can cause high blood sugar levels and lead to type 2 diabetes. Obesity is also linked to high blood pressure, high triglycerides, and low HDL (good) cholesterol, all of which are indicators of poor metabolic health.

Traditionally, obesity has been seen as a personal failing, with the emphasis on simply losing weight through diet and exercise. We still see a significant amount of health care professionals giving the advice to “eat less and exercise more” in order to lose weight. Viewing obesity as a moral deficiency, or placing blame on the patient, is simply wrong. 

Obesity affects all facets of society from “gym rats” to even our military members. To act as if the significant amount of people who are affected by obesity are “lazy” or struggling with a “cosmetic issue” is wrong. 

Treating obesity as a chronic disease means recognizing that it is a complex condition that requires a multifaceted approach to treatment. This approach includes addressing both the biological and behavioral factors that contribute to obesity.

The first step in treating obesity as a chronic disease is to change the way we view it. We need to focus on  improving overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases associated with obesity. 

We can improve metabolic health through weight loss. 

One of the most significant benefits of treating obesity as a chronic disease is the improvement in metabolic health that can result from weight loss. Even modest weight loss of 5-10% can lead to significant improvements in blood sugar levels, blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides. This can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

GLP-1 (which stands for glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. It works by stimulating insulin production, slowing down digestion, and reducing appetite. Over the years, GLP-1 agonists have emerged as a promising treatment option for individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Recent studies have shown that GLP-1 agonists are effective in improving glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes. They work by mimicking the effects of GLP-1, which increases insulin secretion from pancreatic beta-cells, suppresses glucagon secretion, and slows down gastric emptying.

The latest research suggests that GLP-1 agonists not only improve blood sugar control but also have additional benefits, such as promoting weight loss and reducing cardiovascular risk.  In addition to their glucose-lowering effects, GLP-1 agonists have been shown to promote weight loss by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. They may also reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in people with type 2 diabetes by improving blood pressure, lipid levels, and arterial function. Overall, GLP-1 agonists are a promising new option for managing type 2 diabetes and improving overall health outcomes.

Our clinic utilizes GLP-1’s when clinically appropriate.

Simple and easy, this steak salad comes together quickly. Aside from the steak, you can even assemble this salad in advance.

This steak salad packs in a lot of nutritionally-rich veggies.  Leafy greens and raw vegetables are good sources of natural fiber. The avocado is a key player given its beneficial fat–this fat will help keep you fuller. Avocados are also a great source of magnesium and potassium.

Hey, did you catch our Greek Salad Bowl recipe? It’s also a weeknight winner.

Feel free to use a different cut of steak. Our personal favorite is the ribeye, but skirt or flank are also good substitutes. Also feel free to experiment with the lettuce blends. While mixed greens has a somewhat tangy flavor profile, romaine is also excellent.

Let’s get to making a steak salad.

1 1/2 lb ribeye (or steak of choice)

4 Tbsp olive oil, divided

salt and pepper to taste

2 Tbsp lime juice

1 (10-oz) pkg chopped mixed greens

1 cup refrigerated salsa

2 avocados, sliced

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

2 roma tomatoes, thinly sliced

3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Rub steak with 2 Tbsp oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper.
2. Grill or pan fry steak to desired doneness. If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145 degrees. Allow steak to rest for 10 minutes before slicing across the grain.
3. Divide lettuce among six bowls.  Whisk together 2 Tbsp oil and lime juice. Drizzle over each bowl.
4. Top with steak, salsa, avocado, red onion, tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).