Obesity isn’t just about weight - it’s a complex, chronic condition that impacts nearly every system in the body. In this episode of Beatwise The Podcast, I sit down with Dr. John Ostrominski, an internal medicine physician and obesity researcher from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, to unpack the evolving science of obesity and what it really means for heart health, metabolism, and long-term outcomes.
We explore why traditional tools like BMI often fall short, what a more comprehensive risk assessment looks like, and how the latest treatments - like GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, tirzepatide) - are reshaping obesity care. Dr. Ostrominski shares insight into lifestyle strategies, the underestimated role of protein, the stigma surrounding obesity, and what both patients and providers should know to make treatment more accessible and effective.
If you’re a clinician, patient, or just curious about the science of weight management, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways.
[00:00] Welcome to Beatwise: Setting the stage for an honest conversation on obesity
[01:11] Redefining obesity as a chronic disease and its far-reaching health impacts
[03:13] BMI vs. waist circumference: Why these metrics don’t tell the whole story
[05:03] Diving into the root causes of obesity and its many forms
[07:15] A smarter way to assess obesity risk: Going beyond the numbers
[13:28] Key lifestyle interventions that actually work
[15:32] Why adequate protein intake is crucial in weight management
[21:28] GLP-1 receptor agonists explained: semaglutide, tirzepatide, and more
[35:54] Practical advice for clinicians and patients using GLP-1 medications
[41:04] Final thoughts on improving access, reducing stigma, and moving forward
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