Having A Weight Loss Conversation With Your Physician

If you are planning to go on a diet, it is extremely important that you consult with your physician first. This is especially true if you are battling any illnesses that might change how you should go about losing those excess pounds. If you are unsure about how to bring this topic up with your doctor, here are some suggestions to get you started.

The first thing to do when consulting with your doctor about losing weight is to make sure he is on the same page as you about the need to lose weight. Ask him to run some labs that will check your cholesterol and glucose levels, as well as check for any other health concerns. If all of your levels are normal and your BMI is within a healthy range, your doctor might suggest forgoing the weight reduction efforts. If anything is out of range, your doctor can advise you about what a healthy range for you is, so you can set the appropriate goals.

Once you have discussed healthy weight ranges, it is important to bring up the topic of exercise. Exercise is essential for long term weight loss, but not all exercises are right for everyone. Your specific exercise plan should be developed with any current health conditions in mind, and your current physical state should also be considered. A person who has essentially acted as a couch potato should not immediately run a marathon, for example. Your doctor can make recommendations about how to get started exercising and how to keep things at a pace that will remain safe and motivating.

Another topic that will likely come up when you are discussing weight loss are medications and surgery. In some extreme cases, weight loss medications or surgery are the best option to get your weight to a healthy level. In other cases, medications should be avoided to reduce risks. In addition to weight loss medications, discuss any medications you are currently on. Some can slow weight loss or make certain foods or activities unsafe. Make sure to have a clear understanding of this important topic before proceeding with your diet plan.

Finally, it is important to discuss healthy eating with your physician. This might mean developing an eating plan to get you through the first days and weeks or receiving a referral to consult with a dietary specialist. Getting off on the right foot when it comes to eating can boost your weight loss efforts and ensure you are receiving the right level of important nutrients while dieting. Take this advice seriously and implement it into your daily eating plan and weekly goals.

When creating your personalized weight loss plan, it is important to take the advice of your physician seriously. Remember that you and your physician are a team with a shared goal of improved health. By asking for his advice, you are taking a step toward creating a better life for yourself and enhancing your weight loss efforts.

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