Wednesday 30 June 2021

What to ask your doctor before you start a weight loss program

Losing weight can be a difficult process that doesn't necessarily happen quickly. Learning about your body's health after losing weight - and the resources available to you - can help give you the motivation you need.

Let your doctor know how important losing additional weight is to you. You'll want to make sure you're working together and not against each other. Book doctors appointments online for consultation.

Ask these question to your doctor:

  1. How long do I think it should take for me to reach my goal?

Most experts advise that weight loss not exceed 2 pounds per week. Rapid weight loss is mainly water or muscle, and not a lot of fat.


That said, it's generally OK if you lose 3 to 5 pounds per week for the first few weeks, provided you're more than 30 pounds’ overweight.


  1. How will increasing body weight impact my overall health?

Weight loss can help with your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.

If your doctor says that losing 5% to 10% of your weight will enable you to get off your high blood pressure medication, that's extremely motivating.


  1. How much weight do you want to lose?

Everyone is different, and there may not be one magic number.


I don't know the precise answer, so this is something you want to negotiate with your physician.


While many doctors use BMI as a guideline, you'll want to talk with your doctor about the best method for you.


  1. Could a health problem be affecting my weight?

It's possible. However, if you have an underactive thyroid or have prediabetes, this can slow down your weight loss and make it harder.

While the doctor should have found this out, it never hurts to ask, especially if you have a strong family history or tend to carry weight around your belly.


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