The problem of obesity is not just a matter of appearance but is also associated with an increased risk of various chronic and severe health problems. Therefore, we will provide you with all the information about the Weight Loss Challenges package offered by Al-Borg Diagnostics so that you can control obesity before it affects your health.

Obesity and its Impact on Health

Obesity is a term used to describe the accumulation of excess body fat, and it is a common condition that negatively affects all aspects of health, including reproductive function, respiratory function, memory, and mood.

It also increases the risk of developing several severe and chronic diseases, including: (1)(2)

• Diabetes.
• Heart diseases.
• High blood pressure.
• Certain types of cancer.
• Arthritis.

What is the Weight Loss Challenges package offered by Al-Borg Diagnostics?

The Weight Loss Challenges package is a comprehensive program of tests offered by Al-Borg Diagnostics. It includes 21 tests that help discover the causes of obesity and its impact on a person’s health.

This package helps identify any underlying medical issues causing excess weight and highlights its impact on a person’s health and the health problems arising from weight gain. Consequently, it assists the physician in determining the necessary steps to improve the person’s health. (1)

What are the tests included in the Weight Loss Challenges package?

The Weight Loss Challenges package includes 21 various tests, which are detailed as follows:

• Thyroid function tests

The person’s weight gain may be caused by an underactive thyroid gland (Hypothyroidism), as its sluggishness leads to a decreased metabolic rate, weight gain, and obesity. Therefore, the Weight Loss Challenges package offers five tests related to thyroid function. (5)

• Vitamin D level in the blood

Obese individuals often have lower vitamin D levels than those within the normal weight range. Therefore, it is essential to perform a vitamin D test.(6)

• Cortisol level in the blood

High cortisol levels in the blood contribute to weight gain and obesity in several ways. They stimulate the metabolic breakdown of fats and carbohydrates, leading to increased energy in the body. This, in turn, causes an increase in appetite and an intense craving for sweet, fatty, and salty foods. (7)

• Blood sugar and insulin resistance tests

Blood sugar levels are significantly affected by body weight. A study showed that the risk of developing diabetes is 93 times higher among women with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher than women with a BMI lower than 22.

Fat cells, particularly those around the waist in obese individuals, secrete hormones and substances that fire inflammation and make the body less responsive to insulin. They also alter the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats, resulting in high blood sugar levels and the development of diabetes.

Therefore, the Weight Loss Challenges package offers six tests related to blood sugar levels, including glucose in plasma (fasting), glucose in plasma (2 hrs postprandial), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level, insulin level fasting, and estimated insulin resistance. (2)

• Male Hormone Analysis

Obesity causes a decrease in testosterone levels in the body, which is why the Weight Loss Challenges package offers a comprehensive analysis of total and free testosterone levels. (8)

• Growth Hormone Analysis

The production of growth hormone significantly decreases in individuals with obesity, making it necessary to test their levels to prevent complications associated with its deficiency. (9)

• Heart and Artery Health tests

Weight gain leads to increased blood pressure, triglycerides, bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein), inflammation, and blood sugar levels, which increase the risk of heart and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, the Weight Loss Challenges package includes heart and artery health tests. (2)

• Liver Functions tests

Obesity increases the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, a condition characterized by fat accumulation in the liver among obese individuals. It also increases the risk of elevated liver enzymes. Hence, the Weight Loss Challenges package includes three tests related to liver health. (10)

What is the cost of the Weight Loss Challenges package?

The cost of The Weight Loss Challenges package tests is only 999 Saudi Riyals.

Who is the target audience for The Weight Loss Challenges package?

To clarify the target audience for The Weight Loss Challenges package, it is necessary to provide some information about Body Mass Index (BMI).

Body Mass Index is a measurement that helps determine whether a person’s weight is appropriate for their height. It may indicate high body fat if it is elevated and low body fat if it is low. Generally, the results fall within one of the following categories:

• Below 18.5: Underweight range.
• 18.5 – 24.9: Healthy weight range.
• 25 – 29.9: Overweight range.
• 30 – 39.9: Obesity range.
• 40 or above: severe obesity range.

The target audience for the package includes individuals with a body mass index (BMI) higher than 25, especially those with a BMI of 30 or higher.(3)(4)