Obesity treatment cannot be instant, requires medical-based approach

The desire to lose weight quickly can drive people to undergo extreme diets and consume slimming drugs whose safety has not been guaranteed. Doctors remind that obesity treatment requires a medical-based approach and cannot rely on instant results.

Clinical Nutrition Specialist at Brawijaya Hospital, Dr Prinindita Artiara Dewi, B.MedSc, Sp.GK, said excessive restriction of food intake remains one of the common mistakes made in efforts to lose weight.

“For example, eating once a day or being selective about food. So not wanting to eat carbohydrates at all, only eating protein,” Prinindita said in a Health Corner session themed “Managing Obesity Safely, Beware of Counterfeit Drug Products”, Friday (14/8).

According to her, the body still requires various nutrients to function optimally. Carbohydrates are needed as a source of energy, while protein, fat, fibre, vitamins and minerals each have their own roles.

Therefore, a diet for weight loss needs to be tailored to each individual’s needs, including energy requirements, body condition and daily activities.

“The important thing is that we eat enough according to our needs. That is why a personalised diet is needed for each individual,” she said.

She added that obesity should be understood as a chronic disease that develops gradually and is influenced by various factors, not merely the result of a person’s lack of discipline in maintaining their diet.

Genetic factors, lifestyle, use of certain medications, and hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s syndrome can contribute to obesity.

Therefore, evaluating a patient’s condition is not enough based solely on the number on the scale. Doctors also need to assess body composition and the possibility of comorbidities before determining treatment.

Meanwhile, Head of the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) Prof Dr dr Taruna Ikrar, M.Biomed reminded the public not to easily trust promotions of health products, especially those offering rapid weight loss results through social media.

Promotions by influencers, he said, may be accompanied by exaggerated claims or overclaims. Reviews on social media should also not be the sole basis for using weight loss drugs.

“Make sure to check KLIK: packaging, label, marketing authorisation, and expiry date,” Taruna said.

Cek KLIK is a step the public can take before purchasing health products, namely checking the Packaging, Label, Marketing Authorisation and Expiry date.

Taruna also reminded the public to scrutinise the information on the packaging, including the barcode. If scanning the barcode directs consumers to a page unrelated to BPOM, the product should be suspected and can be reported.

The use of weight loss drugs must also comply with regulations. For drugs that require a prescription, the public is advised to consult a doctor before using them.

Obesity treatment itself does not rely solely on medication. Associate Director Medical & Regulatory at Novo Nordisk Indonesia, Dr Riyanny Meisha Tarliman, said lifestyle changes are one of the main pillars, while pharmacological therapy can be given if necessary.

In certain conditions, bariatric surgery can also be an option. Determining therapy must consider each patient’s condition, including body composition and comorbidities such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders.

“It is important to consult a doctor to get appropriate treatment,” Riyanny said.

She emphasised that obesity cannot be treated with a quick-fix approach because it is a chronic condition that develops over the long term.

“Obesity management must be science-based, involve healthcare professionals, and consider long-term impacts and benefits,” she said.

Prinindita added that lifestyle changes also need to be made gradually and consistently. Physical activity must be adjusted to the body’s condition so as not to create new problems, especially for patients who already have certain health conditions.

“Consistency is indeed required, that is the most important thing, steadfastness, and also commitment,” she concluded.