Obesity is a Chronic Disease
Obesity is a chronic, progressive, and relapsing disease characterized by abnormal or excess body fat that impairs health and wellbeing. It affects physical health, mental health, and overall quality of life, and like other chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension, it requires a comprehensive, long-term, and supportive approach to care.
Obesity is treatable. With the right combination of support, strategies, and appropriate use of medications, real, lasting improvements in health are possible. Obesity has many causes including biology, psychology, environment, and social determinants and is not simply about willpower.
Living with Obesity, You Are Not Alone
Many people living with obesity have had difficult or discouraging conversations about weight in the past. It is common to feel frustrated, judged, or misunderstood.
Our pharmacy is a welcoming, respectful, and judgment-free space. We focus on health, wellbeing, and what matters most to you, not blame, stigma, or shame. Your experience is valid, and support is available. Your goals and preferences guide the plan.
How your pharmacist can help:
- Personalized health assessment
- Lifestyle & nutrition guidance
- Evidence-based treatment options
- Navigate insurance and savings
For some individuals, lifestyle and nutrition support alone may not be sufficient. Evidence-based medications are available and can be part of a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan. Not sure where to start? Talk to your pharmacist today. Your health journey is personal. We are here to support it.
Weight Is More Than a Number
Body weight is often measured using Body Mass Index (BMI), calculated using weight and height: BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m²)
BMI categories for adults (screening tool):
| BMI | Classification | Health Risk |
|---|---|---|
| 18.5–24.9 | Healthy Weight | Lower average risk |
| 25.0–29.9 | BMI in the overweight range | Increased risk |
| 30.0–34.9 | BMI in the obesity range (class I) | High risk |
| 35.0–39.9 | BMI in the obesity range (Class II) | Very high risk |
| ≥ 40.0 | BMI in the obesity range (Class III) | Extremely high risk |
* BMI is a useful population screening tool, but it is not a diagnosis of body fatness or health. It does not account for muscle mass, fat distribution, age, sex, or ethnicity; individual risk varies.
Waist circumference can help assess abdominal fat (cut-offs vary by population).
Commonly used thresholds associated with increased cardiometabolic risk in several guidelines:
| Gender | Waist Circumference (cm) | Waist Circumference (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Men | ≥ 102 cm | ≥ 40 inches |
| Women | ≥ 88 cm | ≥ 35 inches |
* Risk for Type 2 Diabetes and Coronary Heart Disease is increased beyond the above waist circumference cutoffs. (WHO Expert Consultation, 2008; published 2011.)
How Weight Can Affect Health
Excess adiposity (body fat) can impact multiple areas of health. Health effects may include:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Unhealthy cholesterol or triglyceride levels
- Coronary heart disease
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Osteoarthritis
- Heartburn/acid reflux
- Fatty liver disease
- Certain cancers
- Depression and anxiety
Weight Management Approaches
Managing weight is not simply about willpower. Obesity is influenced by multiple factors, including genetic, psychological, sociocultural, economic and environmental factors. Care should be individualized and respectful, focusing on overall health and wellbeing rather than weight alone. Obesity is a treatable chronic disease, and effective options are available.
Healthy Eating for Weight Management
Aim to eat regularly, 3 balanced meals per day, spaced every 4–6 hours. Include snacks if you will be going more than 5 hours between meals.
1. Balance Your Plate
- ½ plate vegetables
- ¼ plate whole grains
- ¼ plate lean protein
2. Choose High-Fibre Carbohydrates
Examples include:
- Whole grains (oats, quinoa, barley, brown rice)
- Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas)
- Fruits and vegetables
3. Go for Lean Protein
- Chicken, turkey, fish
- Beans and lentils
- Tofu
- Eggs
4. Pick Healthy Fats
- Vegetable oils (olive, canola, avocado oil)
- Nuts and seeds
- Fatty fish (salmon, trout, mackerel)
To learn more, pick up our Health and wellness Passport for great savings on health-related products and services at your local Save-On-Foods pharmacy. For more nutritional tips, visit saveonfoods.com
Behavioural and Psychological Interventions for Weight Management
Behavioural and psychological interventions emphasize sustainable lifestyle changes that improved health, function, and quality of life, not just weight loss.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Identify and modify unhelpful thoughts and behaviours
- Address emotional eating and self-stigma
- Build coping strategies that support long-term behaviour change
Medical Nutrition Therapy
- Sustainable, realistic eating patterns
- Improving Metabolic Health
- Building skills to support long-term nutrition habits
- Rather than restrictive dieting
Physical Activity
- Supports cardiovascular and metabolic health
- Improves function, mobility, and mood
- Enhances overall quality of life
- ≥ 150 minutes per week
Physical activity can be tailored to individual interests, abilities, and health conditions. Regular movement supports metabolic health, reduces stress, and improves energy levels, regardless of weight changes.
Behavioural and psychological support can make a big difference, especially when combined with medication.
Medications for Weight Management in Canada
Prescription medications can be an effective evidence-based tool for weight management when used as part of a comprehensive care plan that includes behavioural, nutritional, and psychological interventions.
1. GIP/GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
Subcutaneous Injection
- Tirzepatide
Note: Tirzepatide activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, which may contribute to its effects on appetite regulation, glycemic control, and weight reduction.
2. Glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Medications
Subcutaneous Injections
- liraglutide
- semaglutide
Note: On average, weight loss achieved with GLP-1-based medications does not fully persist after stopping treatment. Within 1 year of discontinuation, individuals may regain approximately ½ to 2/3 of the lost weight
3. Oral Medications
- naltrexone-bupropion
*Please note: the benefits of obesity medications on specific obesity-related health conditions are specific to each medication and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Who may Benefit from Prescription Weight Management Medications?
- Have a BMI of 30 or higher or BMI of 27+ with obesity-related health conditions.
- Have not achieved desired results from behavioral interventions alone.
- Need additional support with managing appetite, cravings, or metabolic factors that make weight management challenging.