by Liz Vokes
When we think of the term “obesity,” a thin patient does not typically come to mind. However, it’s crucial to recognize that being “thin” doesn’t automatically equate to being healthy. Those with “normal” body weight can still be metabolically unhealthy despite appearing outwardly healthy. We caught up with Dr. Erin Saltzman, MD, our Double Board-Certified Endocrinologist and Obesity Medical Specialist at La Chele, to discuss the concept of Metabolic Obesity Normal Weight, often referred to as “skinny fat,” and how the comprehensive Weight Loss Program at La Chelé can make a significant difference.
Metabolic Obesity Normal Weight, or MONW for short, is characterized by a high body fat percentage combined with low muscle mass. It is also known as Sarcopenic Obesity. This condition can affect individuals whose weight and BMI (Body Mass Index) fall within the normal range. This discrepancy highlights why BMI isn’t always a reliable indicator of a person’s overall health or body composition. For individuals diagnosed with MONW, there’s an elevated risk of various medical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and high cholesterol. This heightened risk is primarily due to elevated visceral fat levels.
You might wonder if shedding fat or visceral fat is as simple as losing weight. Unfortunately, it’s not that straightforward, especially for individuals dealing with MONW. Suppose someone with normal-weight obesity focuses solely on losing weight without simultaneously increasing muscle mass. In that case, they might lose primarily water weight or even muscle mass rather than targeting fat loss. Muscle loss not only affects the body’s kinetic function but also results in the body burning fewer calories, which makes weight loss, or more specifically, fat loss, a more challenging endeavor. Incorporating a higher protein intake into one’s diet can be beneficial, but without proper exercise, the body has limited potential to build and maintain muscle. Additionally, it’s important to note that the body naturally loses around 3-5% of muscle mass per decade as part of the aging process alone.
So, how does La Chelé tackle these complex issues, especially for individuals dealing with MONW? With the guidance of Dr. Erin Saltzman, La Chelé offers a tailored approach to address each patient’s unique needs. Dr. Saltzman utilizes advanced tools like the InBody scale to determine the precise ratio of body fat to muscle mass within the body. This invaluable information allows her to create a personalized plan that optimizes weight loss while preserving essential muscle mass. In cases of normal-weight obesity, the focus often shifts from weight to decreasing visceral fat and building muscle.
Recognizing the complexities of normal weight obesity and addressing them effectively requires a personalized approach that combines data-driven assessments with expert guidance. At La Chele, Dr. Erin Saltzman and her team are dedicated to helping individuals with MONW achieve their health and fitness goals by targeting the right aspects of their body composition. Remember, health goes beyond numbers on a scale, and by addressing the root causes of MONW, individuals can not only shed unhealthy weight but also improve their overall well-being. So, if you or someone you know is grappling with normal weight obesity, consider reaching out to La Chelé to embark on a journey toward a metabolically healthier life.
