Medical obesity affects more than one in every three adults in the United States. An elevated body mass index can increase the chance of a range of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, cancer and depression. Obesity can reduce one’s quality of life and shorten one’s lifespan by up to fourteen years. Understanding how to lose weight can be difficult, but working with your Vienna, VA weight loss specialist can put you on the right path to healthy living. 

Overview of medical weight loss

Medical weight loss is the procedure of losing weight with the assistance and supervision of a healthcare professional. The doctor applies their knowledge and medical experience to assist the person attempting to lose weight in developing a realistic plan that meets their specific circumstances. The specialist can also assist you in finding and maintaining the weight loss motivation you require to succeed. The first appointment, behavioral changes, and medication for weight loss are the three main components of medical weight loss.

1. First appointment

The physician will meet with you to learn more about you and your goals. During this initial visit, the doctor will review your ideal weight and work with you to develop a plan to meet your goals while also working with your lifestyle. This initial meeting will allow you to know your doctor and provide the doctor with the information they need to help you.

2. Medication for weight loss

Your specialist may prescribe weight loss medication to supplement the weight loss diet or exercises they recommend. Weight loss medications can allow your body to burn extra energy; however, these medications can have some arguably adverse side effects. Because of these adverse effects, these medications are typically used to supplement other weight loss behaviors rather than as the sole weight-loss method. If you take these medications, your physician will closely monitor you to ensure you are healthy.

3. Behavioral changes

Chancing your habits is the most effective way to lose weight. Extra weight is essentially stored energy that the body saves as fat tissue. Weight gain occurs when more energy is consumed through food than is expended through activity and when more energy is expended during exercise than is consumed through food. The key behaviors that influence weight loss are eating low-energy foods and engaging in more physical activity.

• Diet – During medical weight loss therapy, your specialist will devise a weight loss diet plan that includes low-calorie foods. Calories from various sources will also influence how much weight you gain or lose. Your doctor will also assist in recommending a healthy diet plan that includes foods that promote weight loss and eating schedules that help you burn more of the energy you get from eating.
• Exercise – exercise is essential when trying to lose weight. Implement a medical weight loss plan devised by your doctor, including exercise and healthy eating. The extra activity makes your body burn the energy it stores as fat and helps your body use the energy from the food you eat more effectively. Behavioral changes are most beneficial when tailored to your particular lifestyle and personality.

There is no shortcut for losing weight. Physical activity and diet continue to be the cornerstones of weight loss. If you want to receive your customized medical weight loss plan, call Nova Physician Wellness Center or schedule an appointment today.