The increase in the number of Filipinos who are “overweight and obese” has prompted experts to discuss weight management strategies and medications.

During the “Kapihan with the Media” on Sept. 8, experts addressed the escalating concern on obesity rates. The discussion also revolved around the development of “medications” designed to facilitate weight loss.

“Noong mga early 70s to 80s, may mga gamot na lumabas noon para lang mabawasan ka ng ganang kumain, subalit nakita ng mga eksperto na nagkakaroon ng 'side effects' at nagkakaroon ng problema sa puso at baga ang mga tao noon (In the early '70s to '80s, there were medications that came out aimed at reducing one's appetite, but experts observed that people experienced 'side effects' and encountered heart and lung problems during that time),” said Philippine Association for the Study of Overweight and Obesity President Dr. Nemencio A. Nicodemus Jr.

Moving into the '90s and 2000s, Nicodemus explained that a class of drugs developed that blocked the absorption of 30 percent of dietary fat within the intestines.

While these drugs showed promise in weight reduction, their adoption remained limited, he explained.

Nicodemus then underscored the recent breakthroughs in weight loss pharmacology.

These medications, he explained, offer a holistic approach to weight control by reducing hunger, slowing intestinal motility, resulting in a feeling of fullness, and possibly improving general health, including heart health.

He noted that there is “now more of a variety of drugs available to help those who are obese.”

However, Nicodemus also stressed the importance of consulting a healthcare professional, particularly when concurrent medical conditions such as diabetes are present.

“Lahat ito ay kailangang may reseta ng doktor at huwag po tayong maniniwala kung saan saan lamang lalo na sa social media dahil hindi rin po natin alam kung para sa atin po ang mga gamot na 'yun ("All of these need a doctor's prescription, and we should not believe in just any source, especially on social media, because we also do not know if those medications are suitable for us),” Nicodemus said.

Holistic approach

Meanwhile, Dr. Zenaida F. Velasco, a member of the Obesity Medicine Association and Chief Executive Officer of the Nutrition and Emotional Wellness Center, emphasized a holistic approach to weight management.

She highlighted that the initial response should not be medication but rather a comprehensive strategy involving dietary adjustments and the integration of antioxidant-rich foods, particularly during periods of stress.

Velasco referenced Nicodemus' mention of the link between chronic inflammation and obesity, urging individuals to explore anti-inflammatory foods such as berries, avocados, and mushrooms, which offer ‘natural solutions’ distinct from medications.

She also emphasized the significance of seeking medical advice and getting the proper prescription for a personalized strategy for weight management in conditions when desired outcomes remain unclear, particularly among persons with comorbidities.

Recent data from the Department of Science and Technology and the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) has also revealed an alarming trend in the Philippines.

Based on the data, among Filipinos aged 20 and above, a concerning 36.6 percent, or one in four individuals, now falls into the category of “overweight and obese.”

This data highlights a consistent and troubling increase over the past two decades in the Philippines. (Zekinah Elize Espina)