Losing weight isn’t easy, and sometimes, it seems impossible. No matter what you try, the temptation is around every corner, rearing its ugly head when you are most vulnerable. When you’ve tried and tried to lose weight and just can’t seem to figure it out, it may be time to consult with a doctor. Whether it’s your primary care physician or a doctor specializing in bariatrics, these medical professionals can help you lose weight by:
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Assessing your current health status.
Before beginning a weight loss journey, it’s important to know what state your body and health are in currently. Underlying conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart problems can derail your weight-loss attempts and make you feel defeated or hopeless. By allowing a physician to thoroughly examine you before attempting to lose weight, including complete lab work, you will be better prepared for obstacles that may come your way. Your doctor may also want to prescribe you medication or treatment for conditions before releasing you to begin a weight-loss program.
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Diagnosing the reason for your weight gain.
To lose weight, you need to know why you gained weight in the first place. Doctors can help you find this answer by asking the right questions about your eating and exercise habits, overcoming doubts and excuses, and referring you for psychological help if needed.
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Teaching you about diet and exercise.
Many people are unaware of what foods are healthy or how much exercise they should get each week. Small lifestyle changes can make huge differences for people trying to lose weight. Your doctor will make sure you are fully informed about your ideal diet and activity levels so you can avoid more invasive and costlier options.
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Helping you stay accountable.
Your doctor is a great point of accountability for you in your weight-loss journey. They can help you track your weight, set reasonable goals, establish a food and activity journal, and monitor these periodically. Knowing that you have a weight-check appointment coming up can be a big motivator, and help you stick to your prescribed diet and exercise.
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Making referrals to specialists.
In some cases, your doctor may want to refer you out to a specialist physician for different issues that arise before or during your weight-loss journey. For example, they may refer you to a bariatric specialist if you’re over a certain BMI or a vascular surgeon for skin removal surgery. These referrals are crucial if you want to lose weight safely and be successful long-term.
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Celebrating your victories.
Once you’ve put in the work, made the sacrifices, and lost some weight, you’re going to want to celebrate. Your doctor will be very proud of the improvement to your health and quality of life and can be a source of encouragement for you to continue down this healthier path.
If you’ve tried many times to lose weight and feel like giving up, you don’t have to do it alone. Our medical staff is here to help you develop a weight-loss plan and stick to it. Visit www.wegivetlc.com to find our location nearest you and begin your weight-loss journey today.
