If you are unsure of whether or not you need to lose weight and are not clear on how to start your weight loss journey, speaking to your physician should be a top priority. A doctor can use your BMI and personal health history as well as your lifestyle habits and preferences to inform you whether or not you should be losing weight.
If you do need to lose weight, he or she will let you know how many pounds you need to shed off to become the healthiest version of yourself. In addition your doctor may recommend one of the following approaches:
A Medically Supervised Weight Loss Program
Your doctor may suggest a robust medically supervised weight loss program that will require you to change your lifestyle habits. He or she will educate you on how to alter your diet to ensure that it is full of nutritious meals and less of highly caloric foods. In addition to creating a new diet plan, your doctor will also help you implement a regular exercise regimen that involves both cardio and strength training. Your progress will be professionally monitored and changes to your program will be made as necessary.
Prescription Weight Loss Medication
In the event that diet and exercise does not help you reach your weight loss goals, prescription weight loss may be an option. While prescription weight loss drugs prescribed by a doctor are not a magical solution to weight loss, they can be effective when combined with an improved diet and regular physical activity. According to the Mayo Clinic, prescription weight loss drugs can help patients lose an average of 5 to 10 percent of total body fat per year. Your doctor will let you know if prescription weight loss is a viable option for you.
Guidance and Support
Aside from recommending a weight loss strategy that will respond best to your health history and personal goals, doctors can encourage you to shift your behaviors while reinforcing positive changes. These changes include increased physical activity, improved eating habits, and weight loss maintenance. Weight loss programs that encourage regular doctor visits will also provide you with accountability and persistent support in losing weight. Additionally, medically supervised weight loss will give you the education and resources you need to maintain your weight loss for the rest of your life.
For professional medical support that can help you meet your weight loss goals and stay healthy for the rest of your life, visit Total HealthcareMD today. Dr. Martin van Cleeff has over 30 years of experience giving patients the education and tools they need to lose weight and keep it off.