What is Morbid Obesity? - Forever Clinica

17 July 2025

What is Morbid Obesity? Your Journey to a Healthier Future with Forever Clinica in Istanbul, Turkey!

Hello, dear readers! Here at Forever Clinica, our goal is to bring you the most current and accurate information. Today, we’re tackling a topic that holds significant importance in many lives but often isn’t taken as seriously as it should be: morbid obesity. This condition is far more than just a “weight problem”; it’s a chronic disease that can lead to severe health issues, drastically impact quality of life, and absolutely requires professional support. As Forever Clinica, we are ready to walk this challenging journey with you, offering you the most precise and personalized solutions right here in Istanbul, Turkey.

So, what exactly is morbid obesity? Why is it so crucial? Let’s dive into this complex yet vital topic together.

Morbid Obesity: More Than Just Weight, It’s a Health Concern!

It’s hard not to notice the increasing number of overweight individuals around us these days. But is everyone who is overweight morbidly obese? Of course not. Morbid obesity is a term used for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher. Simply put, it means carrying significantly more weight than your ideal weight for your height. This isn’t just about aesthetic concerns; it can open the door to numerous serious health problems like diabetes, heart disease, joint issues, sleep apnea, and unfortunately, even increase the risk of premature death.

At Forever Clinica, we understand the complex nature of morbid obesity, which is why we adopt a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. This means we don’t just offer diet or surgery. Instead, we provide a holistic treatment process where many different specialists – from nutritionists to psychologists, physiotherapists to surgeons – come together to create a personalized roadmap just for you. Our aim is not only to help you lose weight but also to assist you in adopting a healthy lifestyle and permanently improving your quality of life. All these comprehensive treatments are available at our state-of-the-art facility in Istanbul, Turkey.

Body Mass Index (BMI) and Obesity Stages: Where Do You See Yourself?

BMI is a number obtained by dividing your weight by the square of your height, and it’s the most widely used measure to determine the degree of obesity. Let’s look at the obesity stages based on these values:

25-29.9: Overweight: While you’re not yet in the obesity category, being in this range indicates a risk of moving towards obesity in the future. Small lifestyle changes can often prevent this.
30-34.9: Class 1 Obesity: You are now categorized as “obese.” Health risks slowly begin to increase. Seeking professional help at this stage can prevent serious problems.
35-39.9: Class 2 Obesity: We can also call this stage “severe obesity.” Health issues become more pronounced, and treatment options should be considered more comprehensively.
40 and above: Morbid Obesity (Class 3 Obesity): This is our main topic today! At this stage, quality of life significantly declines, and health risks are very high. More radical solutions, such as surgical intervention, may often need to be evaluated.
50 and above: Super Obesity: Beyond morbid obesity, this is the most advanced stage. Health risks reach their peak, and the treatment process becomes even more complex.

Morbid obesity isn’t just about excess weight visible from the outside. The accumulation of excessive fat in the body adversely affects all organ systems, disrupts metabolism, and creates a domino effect leading to a series of health problems.

Behind Morbid Obesity: Why Is It Becoming So Widespread?

So, why do some people struggle with morbid obesity while others don’t? Morbid obesity is not a simple condition that can be attributed to a single cause. It typically arises from a combination of many factors. Let’s take a closer look at these factors:

1. Genetic Factors: Destiny or Predisposition?

The influence of genes on weight is undeniable. If there’s a history of obesity in your family, your risk of becoming obese, unfortunately, increases. This means your genes can affect your metabolism, your tendency to store fat, and even your appetite. However, genetic predisposition is not your destiny! It’s just a risk, and managing this risk through the right lifestyle choices is entirely within your control. Remember, genetic predisposition is a starting point, not a destination.

2. Poor Eating Habits: How We Eat Matters as Much as What We Eat!

One of the biggest problems brought by modern life is the deterioration of our eating habits. Sugary drinks, fast food, processed foods, and high-calorie snacks have, unfortunately, become an indispensable part of our lives.

Fast Food and Processed Foods: High calories, low nutritional value! These foods are often loaded with salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, don’t provide a feeling of fullness, and make you constantly crave more.
Lack of Portion Control: Does our eyes fill up more than our stomachs? Large portions served in restaurants, our habit of filling our plates at home, can unknowingly lead us to consume far more calories.
High-Calorie Diet: Consistently consuming more calories than our daily energy needs causes the body to store this excess energy as fat.

At Forever Clinica, we guide you not only on “what not to eat” but also on “how to eat.” We support you in conscious eating, portion control, and making healthy food choices.

3. Sedentary Lifestyle: The Scourge of the Modern Age!

With technological advancements, our lives have become easier, but also more sedentary. Office jobs, long screen times, public transport, and car usage have minimized our physical activity.

Slowed Metabolism: As physical activity decreases, our body’s calorie-burning rate also drops. This makes weight gain easier.
Muscle Mass Loss: Muscles are one of the body’s most calorie-burning tissues. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to muscle mass loss and thus a further slowdown of metabolism.

Remember, “movement brings prosperity!” Regular physical activity not only helps you lose weight but also positively affects your overall health and mood.

4. Hormonal and Metabolic Disorders: Hidden Enemies!

Certain hormonal imbalances and metabolic disorders can also pave the way for weight gain:

Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid Gland): Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism. If they are underactive, metabolism slows down, and weight gain becomes easier.
Insulin Resistance: A condition where body cells do not respond properly to insulin. This causes blood sugar to rise and the body to produce more insulin, which can increase fat storage.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder seen in women. Weight gain, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalances are common symptoms of PCOS.

Such conditions must be diagnosed and treated with professional medical support. At Forever Clinica, we meticulously investigate these underlying medical reasons for weight gain.

5. Psychological Factors: The Cost of Emotional Eating and Stress

Psychological factors like stress, depression, and anxiety can deeply affect our eating habits:

Emotional Eating: Many people turn to food to cope with negative emotions like stress, sadness, or boredom. While this provides short-term relief, it leads to weight gain and more regret in the long run.
Depression: Depression can lower energy levels, reduce physical activity, and lead to appetite changes.
Sleep Disorders: Insufficient or poor-quality sleep can affect appetite-regulating hormones and lead to a greater desire to eat the next day.

At Forever Clinica, we are aware of how crucial psychological support is in the weight loss process. Our psychologists and counselors help you cope with emotional eating habits, develop stress management techniques, and adapt to the process with a healthy mindset.

Health Problems Caused by Morbid Obesity: A Domino Effect

Morbid obesity is a complex condition affecting every system in the body. Excessive fat accumulation doesn’t just impact your appearance; it also negatively affects how all your internal organs function. Here are the main health problems caused by morbid obesity:

✅ Cardiovascular Diseases: High blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol, heart attack, and stroke risks increase significantly in morbidly obese individuals. The heart has to work harder to supply the body, which can lead to the heart enlarging and weakening over time.
✅ Type 2 Diabetes: Morbid obesity is one of the most important risk factors for Type 2 diabetes by triggering insulin resistance. Even if your body produces enough insulin, your cells become unresponsive to it, causing your blood sugar to rise uncontrollably.
✅ Sleep Apnea: Excess weight can lead to narrowing of the tissues around the throat, causing breathing pauses (apnea) during sleep. This results in poor quality sleep, daytime fatigue, concentration problems, and more importantly, an increased risk of heart attack.
✅ Joint and Skeletal Problems: The excessive weight the body has to carry puts enormous pressure on joints like the knees, hips, and lower back. This leads to problems like osteoarthritis (joint calcification), chronic back and knee pain, limiting a person’s mobility and reducing their quality of life.
✅ Fatty Liver (NAFLD/NASH): Excessive fat accumulation in the liver can progress from simple fatty liver (NAFLD) to liver inflammation and damage (NASH – Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis). If left untreated, it can lead to cirrhosis and even liver failure.
✅ Increased Cancer Risk: Research shows that morbid obesity increases the risk of many types of cancer, including breast, colon, uterine, kidney, pancreatic, and prostate cancer.
✅ Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): A condition where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus. Obesity increases intra-abdominal pressure, predisposing to this condition.
✅ Gallbladder Diseases: Obesity increases the risk of gallstone formation.
✅ Infertility and Reproductive Issues: In women, it can lead to hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, and infertility, while in men, it can affect testosterone levels and cause reproductive problems.
✅ Psychosocial Problems: Depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, social isolation, and discrimination are significant psychological and social burdens brought by morbid obesity.

As you can see, morbid obesity is not just an aesthetic problem but a serious health condition that affects your entire body and is potentially life-threatening. However, there’s no need to panic! At Forever Clinica, located in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey, we are here to offer you the best support in battling these issues.

Morbid Obesity Treatment Methods: A Personalized Journey with Forever Clinica in Istanbul

At Forever Clinica, we adhere to the principle of offering personalized solutions for morbid obesity treatment. Every individual’s situation is unique, and therefore, the treatment plan must be tailored to that individual’s needs, health status, and lifestyle. Our treatment options cover a wide spectrum and may include:

1. Medical (Non-Surgical) Treatment: Starting with the Right Steps

In the early stages of morbid obesity, or before surgical intervention, medical treatment methods play a significant role. At this stage, doctor-supervised diet and exercise programs, along with medication for obesity, can be evaluated.

Doctor-Supervised Diet and Exercise Programs: Our expert dietitians create personalized meal plans for you, while our physiotherapists design exercise programs suitable for your body. These programs aim not only for weight loss but also for you to adopt healthy habits and preserve your muscle mass.
Obesity Medications: In some cases, medications that suppress appetite or reduce fat absorption can be included in the treatment process under a doctor’s supervision. However, these medications are never a standalone solution and must always be supported by lifestyle changes.

Remember, at Forever Clinica, we don’t just provide a list; we offer an expert team that will guide you, keep your motivation high, and be by your side every step of the way, right here in Istanbul.

2. Surgical Treatment (Bariatric Surgery): A Turning Point

When medical treatments are insufficient or in advanced stages of morbid obesity, bariatric surgery (obesity surgery) emerges as the most effective treatment option. Bariatric surgery can provide permanent and effective weight loss, significantly improving or completely eliminating obesity-related health problems. At Forever Clinica in Istanbul, Turkey, our expert surgeons and state-of-the-art equipment ensure safe and successful bariatric surgical operations.

The most common bariatric surgical methods include:

Sleeve Gastrectomy (Tube Stomach Surgery): In this surgery, approximately 80% of the stomach is surgically removed, and the stomach takes on a tube-like shape. This both restricts food intake and reduces the secretion of ghrelin, the hunger hormone, increasing the feeling of fullness. It is a very popular and effective method.
Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass): In this operation, a small part of the stomach is separated, and a section of the intestines is connected to this small stomach. It both restricts food intake and reduces the absorption of nutrients. Although it is a more complex operation, it can yield very successful results, especially in patients with Type 2 diabetes.
Gastric Balloon (Endoscopic Method): This is a non-surgical method. A silicone balloon is endoscopically placed into the stomach and then inflated with a certain amount of liquid, taking up space in the stomach and creating a feeling of fullness. It is generally a temporary solution and may be preferred for patients who are not suitable for surgery or have less weight to lose. The balloon is removed after a specific period.

Each surgical method has its unique advantages, risks, and recovery processes. To decide which method is most suitable for you, it is crucial to have a detailed consultation with our surgeons and ask all your questions. Forever Clinica is committed to providing you with the most accurate information to help you make an informed decision, all from our conveniently located clinic in Istanbul.

3. Lifestyle Changes: The Secret to Lasting Success!

Remember, no treatment method is a miracle cure. Lasting success depends on your commitment to lifestyle changes. At Forever Clinica, we support these changes at every stage of your treatment process:

Regular Physical Activity: Exercising at moderate intensity for at least 30 minutes daily not only helps you lose weight but also improves your heart health, increases muscle mass, and boosts your mood. You can choose an activity you enjoy, such as walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing.
Healthy and Balanced Nutrition: To reiterate, permanently changing your eating habits is vital. Avoiding processed foods, consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables, preferring whole grain products, and getting enough protein are the cornerstones of a healthy life. Our dietitians will guide you by creating personalized plans.
Psychological Support and Behavioral Therapies: The weight loss journey is as much a mental journey as it is physical. Receiving psychological support to recognize emotional eating triggers, develop stress coping mechanisms, and form healthy thought patterns is very beneficial. Behavioral therapies help you change your habits and achieve long-term success.

At Forever Clinica, we don’t just offer treatment options; we provide all the tools and support necessary to help you adapt to this new lifestyle, right here in Istanbul. Success begins with you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): We’re Here for Everything on Your Mind!

We know you might have many questions about morbid obesity and its treatment options. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers from Forever Clinica:

1. At what ages is morbid obesity seen? Morbid obesity can occur at any age. While childhood obesity is on the rise, it is generally diagnosed more frequently in the 30-50 age range. However, people of all ages can battle morbid obesity with the right treatment. At Forever Clinica, we work to find the most suitable solution for you, regardless of your age, here in Istanbul.

2. Can morbid obesity be treated without surgery? Yes, in its early stages, it can be controlled with diet, exercise, and in some cases, medication. These methods can be successful, especially in individuals with lower BMI values. However, for advanced cases of morbid obesity (BMI 40 and above) or those with serious obesity-related comorbidities, surgical intervention is usually the most effective and permanent solution. Remember, surgical treatment is not an end but a strong starting step towards a healthy life.

3. Who is eligible for bariatric surgery? Bariatric surgery is generally applied to patients who meet the following criteria:

Individuals with a BMI of 40 or higher.
Individuals with a BMI between 35-40 who have at least one obesity-related comorbidity (e.g., Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, severe joint problems).
Individuals who have tried other weight loss methods and failed.
Those with a general health status that can tolerate the risks of surgery.
Those committed to adapting to lifestyle changes after surgery. Our expert team at Forever Clinica in Istanbul will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine if surgery is appropriate for you.

4. Is weight loss guaranteed after surgery? Bariatric surgery is a highly effective method for weight loss, but it is not a standalone miracle. The success of weight loss after surgery largely depends on the patient’s adherence to diet and lifestyle changes. Surgery provides you with a “tool” for weight loss. How you use this tool will determine whether you reach your goal. At Forever Clinica, we ensure your lasting success by providing continuous support and guidance during the post-operative period.

5. Can morbid obesity be prevented? Absolutely! Morbid obesity, even with genetic predisposition, is largely a preventable disease through lifestyle choices. Regular exercise, a healthy and balanced diet, stress management, adequate sleep, and professional intervention in the early stages of weight gain can significantly reduce the risk of morbid obesity. Remember, early diagnosis and intervention, as with any disease, are vital in obesity.

Forever Clinica: Hand in Hand for a Healthy and Happy Future in Istanbul!

Dear readers, fighting morbid obesity can be a tough battle, but you are not alone on this journey. At Forever Clinica, we understand all the challenges this disease brings, and we are here to offer you the best, most modern, and most personalized treatment approaches. With our experienced team of expert doctors, dietitians, psychologists, and physiotherapists, we are ready to provide all the support you need to take steps towards a healthy life.

Our goal is not just to help you lose weight, but also to improve your quality of life, reduce your risks of chronic diseases, and most importantly, help you regain your self-confidence and self-esteem. A healthy life means a happier life.

Remember, the most important investment is in yourself. Don’t postpone your health!

Feel free to contact us for more information, to discuss your treatment options, and for a personalized assessment. Forever Clinica, conveniently located in Istanbul, Turkey, is ready to walk with you on the path to a healthy future!

Remember, we’re just a call away. We wish you healthy days!