Definition of Bariatrics

Bariatrics: The field of medicine that offers treatment for the person who is overweight with a comprehensive program including diet and nutrition, exercise, behavior modification, lifestyle changes and, when indicated, the prescription of appetite suppressants and other appropriate medications. Bariatrics also includes research into overweight, its causes, prevention, and treatment.

The word bariatrics was derived in the 20th century from the Greek baros (weight) + -iatrics (medical treatment). Other words derived from the same Greek root include barium and barometer.