Obesity is a common problem in the United States, affecting more than one in three adults. This health problem does more than alter your physical appearance; it makes you vulnerable to serious health problems like hypertension, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obstructive sleep apnea. Losing weight may seem daunting, but when working with your Vienna, VA weight loss specialist, you can rest knowing that you are receiving professional and individualized care tailored to your needs.
What is medical weight loss?
Medical weight loss refers to losing excess weight with the help and guidance of a healthcare professional, usually a doctor. It is helpful for anyone above their ideal weight and at risk of obesity-related complications like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. The doctor uses their knowledge and medical expertise to help create a practical and realistic plan that meets your unique needs. Your healthcare provider can also help you find the motivation you need for the success of the weight loss program. Medical weight loss consists of three major components – initial consultation, behavior modification, and weight loss medications.
- Initial consultation
Anyone considering medical weight loss needs to have an initial consultation with their physicians. During the consultation, you will discuss your ideal weight and goals. Your healthcare provider works with you to create an effective plan to meet your goals while making lifestyle adjustments. This phase is also when you get to know your doctor and provide all the necessary information to help you in your weight loss journey.
- Behavior modification
Change of behavior is the ideal way to lose weight since it addresses the problem’s root cause. Essentially, excess weight is the energy your body stores as fat tissue. You gain weight when you take in more energy than you expend through activity. On the other hand, you lose weight when your body uses more energy than you take in through food. The significant behaviors influencing weight loss are eating foods low in energy and increasing your activity level.
Your doctor will create a diet plan of low-calorie foods to help you lose weight. Part of diet change is eating foods that promote weight loss and having eating schedules that allow your body to burn more energy than what you eat.
Exercise plays a crucial role in your medical weight loss journey. It helps your body burn the energy stored as fat and helps the body to effectively use energy obtained from foods you eat. Your healthcare professional may recommend various exercises or workouts to lose weight.
These changes are most effective when tailored to your unique lifestyle and personality.
- Weight loss medications
Your doctor may prescribe weight loss medications to complement other weight loss behaviors. These medications will not be the only weight loss method; you will still need to watch your diet and exercise. Your doctor will monitor you as you take these medications to ensure you are in perfect health.
Losing weight is not the easiest undertaking for most people. If you need help with weight loss, visit your doctor at Nova Physician Wellness Center.