It’s not surprising to learn that nearly 70% of the US adult population is either obese or overweight. Recent years have increased concerns about childhood obesity occurrences as well. Almost anyone can market a diet program that sells because of the need for widespread weight loss. But how do you know how to choose the right program that will help you lose or manage your weight? Here are a few suggestions from Pinnacle GI Partners to help you with your choice.
Include Your Medical Care Team in Your Weight Loss Efforts
Before you even try a weight loss program, no matter how simple or safe it may sound, discuss it with your primary care physician, a dietician, a GI specialist, and any other health professionals providing care. Certain medical issues like diverticulitis or heartburn can become worse on some diet plans. Discuss any concerns you may have about weight loss programs and any diagnoses you may have. Let your doctor help you with the selection.
Also, obtain guidance from health professionals when it comes to exercising. Talk to them about how to exercise safely and any specific medical or physical challenges you face. Be sure to explain any previous attempts at losing weight and what worked and what didn’t. Your physician may refer you to a specific program or a dietitian to help you with food choices and prep. Here are a few questions you should ask a health care provider:
- What is a healthy BMI or healthy weight for me?
- If I lose weight, how will it improve my general health?
- Will losing weight help manage any health problems I’m dealing with presently?
- Are any of my current medications causing weight gain, or making it difficult for me to lose weight?
- Are there any exercise types that I should avoid due to my health or my size?
- Which dietary approaches do you recommend for me to try? Which ones should I avoid?
Choosing a Weight Loss Program if You are Obese
Obesity is a chronic condition, not just a temporary problem. Even for those who are overweight, weight control must become a lifelong effort. A weight loss program should be considered long-term, safe, and effective. Here are a few tips for choosing a safe weight loss program if you are dealing with obesity or overweight.
- Safety First. Make sure the program is safe and includes all the recommended daily allowances for protein, fats, fiber, minerals, and vitamins. The weight loss program should be low in calories, but not low in essential foods.
- Slow and Steady Wins the Race. A weight loss program should be geared toward slow and steady weight loss. In some instances, your primary care physician may suggest a rapid weight loss program or a surgical option. Normally, you should lose just a pound or two a week. You may experience some initial rapid weight loss during the first couple of weeks. This is usually a loss of water-weight or retained fluid.
- Long-term maintenance. A weight loss program should include plans for managing your weight after you lose it. It’s very important that you continue to lose weight until you reach a healthy weight for you – and then maintain it. This means making permanent changes to your diet and activity levels. They should be sustainable for the long term.
- Balanced Efforts. Weight loss plans should not encourage eating large amounts of one certain food or food group and eliminating others. Safe programs do not eliminate all carbs as this can cause other health problems. Avoid programs that encourage eating large quantities of foods like meat or grapefruit. A safe and healthy program will not include excessive use of vitamins or supplements.
Let Pinnacle GI Partners Play on Your Team!
If you or your loved one are dealing with obesity or are overweight, you need an encouraging and compassionate medical team to help you on your journey. Pinnacle GI Partners provide the compassionate care you need when you are dealing with related conditions such as GERD, diverticulitis, or cancer. Contact us to learn how we can help you on your journey to better health.
Sources:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/in-depth/weight-loss/art-20048466
- https://www.medicinenet.com/obesity_weight_loss/article.htm
- https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/choosing-a-safe-successful-weight-loss-program
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/guide/choosing-weight-loss-program