When you are trying to lose weight, your doctor could be a good partner. It’s important to get the conversation started, as they may not spend much time discussing the topic unless you bring it up.
These questions can be used to start a discussion.
1. What Should My Goal Weight Look Like?
Everybody is unique, so there may not be a single number that works for everyone.
No one knows the exact answer so it is something you want with your doctor.
Many doctors simply use the body mass index to guide their patients. BMI is based on your height and weight. It measures whether you are underweight, healthy, overweight, or obese. Everybody is different.
If you’re middle-aged and have been overweight for a while, your doctor will tell you to lose weight. Talk to your doctor about a realistic and sustainable number. UncraveRX can help you find the right doctor for your needs.
2. What Will Weight Loss Do To My Health?
Although you know that extra weight loss is beneficial for you, you might not be aware of all the benefits.
Ask your doctor for more details. “If you find out that you can lose 5% to 10% of the weight and get off your high blood pressure medication, it’s very motivating.”
3. Is There A Medical Condition That Could Be Affecting My Ability To Lose Weight?
It’s possible. Prediabetes or thyroid conditions could cause weight gain or hinder your efforts to lose. Some medications can, too.
4. Is There Any Side Effect To My Medication That Causes Weight Gain?
Weil states that many common prescription drugs, including some antidepressants and steroids, can cause weight gain. Your doctor may be able to change you to another medication or reduce the dose if you are taking medicine that increases your weight.
5. Who Can I Turn To For Help?
Many primary care physicians don’t have enough time or training to offer much guidance.
Request a referral from a dietitian to help you plan a healthy meal plan that fits your needs.
A referral to a physical therapist may be a good idea, especially if there is a problem with your knees that restricts your ability to move. If you have chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, they can help. Exercise is safe for most people. Your doctor will let you know if any precautions should be taken.
6. Is There Any Medication Or Supplement That Can Help Me Lose Weight
Although there is no magic bullet, some people may be able to benefit from certain medications in combination with diet and exercise.
Metformin can be used to help prediabetes or type 2 diabetics lose some weight. It improves blood sugar control and insulin resistance. Prescription drugs that are designed to help you lose weight may be an option.
Talk to your doctor before you consider taking a weight-loss drug, or any supplement.
7. Do You Need Weight Loss Surgery?
You can ask your doctor whether you are a candidate for weight-loss surgery if you have a lot to lose. This surgery isn’t for everyone. This surgery is usually reserved for adults with a minimum BMI of 50 or 35, and who have a condition that affects their weight such as type 1 diabetes, coronary disease, or sleep apnea. To lose weight, you will need to make changes to your eating and exercise habits if you have the surgery.