Welcome to the Missouri Metabolic Health blog! I’m Dr. Lindsay Ogle, a board-certified Family Medicine and Obesity Medicine physician. At Missouri Metabolic Health, we are dedicated to tackling metabolic conditions through lifestyle optimization, weight management, and the use of safe and effective medications. In this post, I’ll focus on a crucial aspect of obesity treatment: emotional hunger, a key obesity phenotype that affects many individuals in our community.
What is Emotional Hunger?
Emotional hunger refers to a brain response where individuals have a heightened pleasurable reaction to certain foods, especially those high in sugar, salt, and fat. For individuals suffering from emotional hunger, foods with these characteristics can trigger an intense craving that often leads to self-soothing behaviors through eating. This can occur during times of stress, anxiety, boredom, or even in moments of celebration.
It is important to emphasize that emotional hunger isn’t a personal flaw, but rather a biological response. So much so that it can also be assessed through genetic testing.
Treatment Options for Emotional Hunger
Addressing emotional hunger typically involves a two-pronged approach: medication and lifestyle modifications.
1. Medications: The medication Contrave (a combination of bupropion and naltrexone) has been FDA-approved since September 2014 for treating overweight and obesity. Bupropion, known as Wellbutrin, is different from typical antidepressants and can help in reducing cravings for unhealthy foods, as well as aiding in smoking cessation and may improve mood. Naltrexone helps block opioid receptors, reducing cravings not just for food but also for substances like alcohol. Together, these medication make Contrave and block the food reward pathway in the brain.
Common side effects, include: upset stomach, headache and sleep disturbances which typically improve with time. You CANNOT take Contrave if you have a history of seizure or are taking opioids.
2. Therapy and Coaching: Equally important is psychotherapy or coaching, which can help individuals process their emotions and develop better coping mechanisms. Finding the right therapist can sometimes feel like dating; it may take time to discover the right match. I encourage you to seek out professionals who can provide compassionate support and guidance.
Why Tailored Treatment Matters
At Missouri Metabolic Health, we understand that obesity and metabolic disorders are complex, multifactorial conditions. That’s why it’s essential to work with an obesity-trained physician who can tailor treatment to meet your specific needs. This includes considering multiple obesity phenotypes—you may identify with more than one.
Our goal is to help you unlock the underlying reasons for your weight challenges and support you through sustainable, long-term solutions.
Conclusion
If you or a loved one are struggling with obesity or related metabolic conditions, it may be time to consider a comprehensive approach that includes both medication and lifestyle changes. Missouri Metabolic Health is here to provide compassionate, personalized care that addresses the core of your health issues.
For more information on emotional hunger, obesity phenotypes, and how we can assist you in your journey towards better health, please visit our website or contact Dr. Ogle today. Remember, lasting change is possible, and you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
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If you live in Missouri, then let’s take the first step together toward a healthier you at Missouri Metabolic Health!
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