5 Myths About Obesity You Need to Stop Believing, According to a Doctor
- Doctor Anywhere Team
- Sep 15
- 5 min read
Obesity is one of the most misunderstood health conditions in the world, and the myths around it can be harmful. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), global obesity rates have nearly tripled since 1975, with more than 1 billion people living with obesity as of 2022.
Despite this, many still view obesity as simply a matter of willpower, overlooking the complex medical, genetic, and environmental factors at play. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stresses that obesity is a chronic disease that increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.
We spoke with Dr. Willard Madrazo, a General Practitioner with Doctor Anywhere, to unpack some of the most common misconceptions he encounters about obesity.
Myth 1 - People with obesity are just lazy or lack self-discipline
Many assume that excess weight is purely a result of poor lifestyle choices, but Dr. Willard says this is far from the truth.
“Obesity is considered a chronic disease—it’s not just about willpower or choice,” he explains. “It can involve deregulation in appetite, metabolism, and hormones. Genetics can also play a role. While diet and exercise are essential, some people still struggle due to underlying hormonal or metabolic changes.”
Myth 2 - If you feel fine, you’re healthy, even if you’re overweight
The absence of symptoms doesn’t mean your health is in the clear.
“When you have chronic conditions, they’re not always symptomatic,” says Dr. Willard. “Many patients only find out through an annual physical exam or routine check-up. That’s why even people who don’t feel sick should get a yearly check-up.”
The Mayo Clinic also warns that obesity-related health problems, like high blood pressure or elevated cholesterol, can develop silently.
Myth 3 - It’s all in your genes—there’s nothing you can do
Genetics can influence your metabolism and fat storage, but it’s not a life sentence.
“Genetics can play a part, but combining proper diet and exercise can still make a difference,” says Dr. Willard. “If you’re struggling despite healthy habits, consult a physician or dietitian for guidance.”
The Philippines Department of Health (DOH) emphasizes that while some people are genetically predisposed to weight gain, lifestyle modifications remain the cornerstone of prevention and management.
Myth 4 - Skipping meals or extreme diets are the fastest way to lose weight
Crash diets may promise quick results, but they often backfire.
“Skipping meals can slow your metabolism,” warns Dr. Willard. “Your body goes into conservation mode to preserve energy, making it harder to burn calories. Portion control and balanced meals are far more sustainable than crash diets.”
Myth 5 - If your BMI is normal, extra weight is harmless
BMI isn’t the full story, especially for Asians.
“Any extra weight, especially visceral fat, increases your risk for cardiovascular disease and other chronic conditions,” explains Dr. Madrazo. “Some people appear thin but carry excess abdominal fat, which can still raise risks for insulin resistance, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, and joint pain.”
The WHO notes that Asians are at higher risk of obesity-related complications at lower BMI levels compared to other populations.
Educate Yourself and Break Down Stereotypes
At Doctor Anywhere, we recognize that obesity is not simply a matter of lifestyle. It's a complex, chronic disease that requires proper medical attention, compassion, and ongoing support. Through our partnership with Novo Nordisk, we're committed to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and empowering patients to take control of their health with confidence and clarity.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Obesity is not a character flaw—it’s a complex medical condition influenced by genetics, hormones, lifestyle, and environment. Believing myths about obesity can delay treatment, worsen health outcomes, and add to the stigma people face.
As Dr. Willard reminds us, “It’s important to understand the real causes so we can address them effectively, without judgment.”
If you’re concerned about your weight or overall health, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Download the Doctor Anywhere app today and speak to a licensed doctor online. Our general practitioners are available 24/7, even on weekends and holidays, with an average waiting time of less than five minutes. You can also book appointments with our specialists, including cardiologists, dermatologists, endocrinologists, gastroenterologists, general surgeons, nephrologists, OB-GYN, orthopedic surgeons, rehabilitation medicine specialists, and mental health experts, all from the comfort of your home.
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Sources:
1. Dr. Madrazo. Interviewed on 10 July 2025.
ABOUT THE EXPERT
Dr. Willard Madrazo is a General Practitioner at Doctor Anywhere Philippines. He focuses on combining medical treatment with overall health, fitness, and nutrition for medical conditions. He earned his medical degree from the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay and brings a holistic approach to healthcare that emphasizes lifestyle modifications alongside traditional treatment.
Dr. Madrazo practices what he preaches when it comes to wellness - he's passionate about fitness and regularly hits the gym. Outside of his medical practice, he's an audiophile who enjoys collecting vinyl records and unwinds by playing PC games, showing that even doctors need their downtime to recharge.
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