Is Obesity a Chronic Disease?

Introduction: Why Obesity Needs a New Approach

Obesity isn’t just about body weight—it’s a complex, chronic disease rooted in metabolic dysfunction, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances. At Patients Medical in New York City, we understand that willpower alone isn’t enough. Instead, we take an integrative, whole-person approach that looks at why the body is holding onto weight—and how to support long-term, sustainable health.

We don’t just treat the scale. We treat you.

What Is Obesity?

Obesity is defined as excess body fat that impairs health and increases the risk for conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hormone disorders, and joint pain.
It’s measured using the Body Mass Index (BMI), but we go beyond the numbers—assessing inflammation, insulin resistance, hormone levels, gut health, and more.

Yes—Obesity Is a Chronic Disease

The American Medical Association classifies obesity as a chronic, relapsing disease—not simply a result of overeating. Chronic inflammation, endocrine disruption, and genetic predispositions often drive weight gain and make weight loss difficult.

Obesity is a symptom of deeper imbalances. Our job is to uncover and treat them.

 

Common Symptoms and Health Effects of Obesity

Root Causes: Why Did You Develop Obesity?

Functional medicine asks, “What’s the root cause?” Here are some key drivers of weight gain:

  • Insulin resistance: Leads to fat storage, especially around the abdomen
  • Toxin buildup: Obesogens and heavy metals disrupt metabolism and thyroid
  • Gut dysbiosis: An imbalanced microbiome promotes inflammation and weight gain
  • Chronic stress: Elevated cortisol increases abdominal fat and sugar cravings
  • Hormonal imbalances: Thyroid, estrogen, testosterone, and leptin all affect weight
  • Mitochondrial dysfunction: Slows metabolism and energy production
  • Food intolerances or emotional eating

 

Advanced Diagnostic Testing We Use

We run comprehensive testing to pinpoint why your body is resistant to weight loss:

Inflammatory markers (CRP, leptin, adiponectin)

Fasting insulin, A1C, glucose, and HOMA-IR

Gut microbiome and leaky gut testing

Comprehensive thyroid panel (TSH, Free T3, T4, Reverse T3)

Cortisol rhythm and adrenal function (DUTCH or saliva testing)

Hormone panels (estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, DHEA)

Heavy metal and toxin burden testing

Genetic markers (MTHFR, detox pathways)

Integrative Treatment Options for Obesity

Hormone Optimization

We create customized food plans based on your metabolism and labs. Options may include:

  • Anti-inflammatory, keto, paleo, or Mediterranean diets
  • Intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating
  • Elimination diets to identify food sensitivities
  • Microbiome-friendly meal planning

Metabolic Reset Nutrition

We use nutrient infusions to support fat metabolism, energy, and detox. Popular infusions include:

  • B-complex, magnesium, carnitine, and glutathione
  • Alpha-lipoic acid for blood sugar control
  • NAD+ for cellular energy and cravings

Targeted Supplementation

Science-backed supplements tailored to your labs, such as:

  • Chromium and berberine for blood sugar balance
  • Ashwagandha for cortisol regulation
  • Probiotics and digestive enzymes
  • Thyroid and adrenal support blends

Liver detox formulas

Stress and Sleep Management

Stress is a major driver of obesity. We use:

  • Acupuncture
  • Meditation and mindfulness practices
  • Sleep hygiene protocols and melatonin testing
  • Adaptogens to support adrenal recovery

Hormonal Optimization and Weight Loss Programs

We treat underlying hormone issues contributing to obesity:

  • Bioidentical hormone therapy (when appropriate)
  • PCOS and menopause care
  • Testosterone support for men
  • Safe, physician-monitored peptide or semaglutide protocols

Case Study: John's 90-Pound Transformation

Carla, age 47, came to us with obesity, prediabetes, and extreme fatigue. She had tried every diet without lasting results. After functional testing, we found:

  • Insulin resistance
  • Candida overgrowth
  • Elevated cortisol
  • Low thyroid function

We implemented a 5-month plan that included:

  • Gut microbiome restoration
  • Anti-inflammatory meals with intermittent fasting
  • Adrenal support and thyroid medication
  • Weekly IV therapy for energy and detox

Outcome: Carla lost 52 pounds, reversed her prediabetes, and regained her energy and self-confidence.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

 Yes. It’s recognized as a chronic, complex condition involving multiple systems.

 Absolutely. We treat the root causes, not just symptoms.

 Both. We combine functional medicine with personalized weight management plans.

 Yes. Estrogen, testosterone, thyroid, and cortisol all influence body weight.

 Yes. We support mind-body healing, stress reduction, and nervous system regulation.

 In many cases—yes. With the right plan, we’ve seen full reversals and restored health.

 When appropriate, yes. We offer it as part of a monitored, integrative plan.

We’re out-of-network, but provide superbills. Many tests are partially reimbursable.

 No. Many patients lose weight without surgery using holistic, functional strategies.

 Yes. We tailor care to your age, gender, metabolism, and health status.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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