Supporting your wellbeing, one step at a time
Trying to improve your health can come with its share of challenges. Understanding the complex issues involved with obesity can help you find your way and get support.
To view all sources and references used on this page, check out the complete brochure.
Did you know?
Nearly one in three Canadians is affected by obesity.
What is obesity?
Obesity is a chronic disease influenced by several factors.
Biology
The brain regulates appetite
After eating a meal rich in protein and fibre, the brain sends out signals of satiety, or fullness, for longer.
Genetics
Genetic factors influence 40-70% of body weight
If your parents are overweight, your risk of being overweight increases due to your genetic inheritance.
Psychology
Stress, anxiety or depression can affect eating habits and motivation to exercise.
These conditions can influence what you eat and how much you eat as well as your motivation to exercise, which can lead to weight gain.
Medication
Some treatments can lead to long-term weight gain
Antidepressants, antihistamines, sleeping pills or certain cancer treatments can have this effect due to their mechanism of action.
Environmental influences
Sedentary lifestyle and poor diet increase risk
Consumption of ultra-processed foods or foods rich in saturated fats and sugar, reduced active mobility, increased screen time and a sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of being overweight.
Social factors
Limited access to healthy food can be detrimental to health, especially for low-income families.
Cost and lack of access to healthy food options often present a barrier that forces these families to rely on processed and sugary foods that can be harmful to their health.
Health and weight: what to look out for
Excess weight can increase the risk of:
Where do you start?
Before starting a weight management program, it’s a good idea to do a comprehensive assessment of your situation to better understand your needs. This assessment may include medical tests, an analysis of your lifestyle and a discussion of your goals.
Then, you can follow a personalized program combining nutrition, physical activity, psychological support and advice for your overall wellbeing.
Solutions at your fingertips
Depending on your group insurance plan, you may benefit from the following coverage:
Weight management medication coverage
Reimbursement for medications, particularly for the treatment of obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, cardiovascular disease, etc.
Support from health care professionals
Reimbursement of paramedical expenses for psychologists, osteopaths, physiotherapists, nutritionists and many others.
Access to specialized care and appropriate treatment
Reimbursement of services and equipment related to physical activity, relaxation, weight management and nutrition.
Rapid consultation for diagnosis of persistent symptoms
Access to a telemedicine platform or an EFAP for rapid appointments with health care specialists.
Support following bariatric surgery
Access to disability benefits following bariatric surgery.
Information, useful resources and support
To find out more, get support and access practical resources, see our tool: Weight management: Concrete support to improve your wellbeing.
Download the brochure