Whether it be for personal, health, or aesthetic reasons, weight loss is a common goal sought out by most. According to The Salt, recent findings claim that 49% of overweight Americans state that they are actively trying to lose weight. Of course, we’ve all heard the old adage of “diet and exercise” more times than we can count. While this can be a helpful mantra to follow for some, others require a little more information from a specialist.
But what questions should you be asking your doctor? This may seem like a rather trivial thing to worry about now but, if left unasked, you might find your next visit to your specialist to be scattered and unfocused. Fortunately for those unsure of how to proceed with their doctor, we’re here to tell you to worry no longer! We’ve compiled a short list of the most important questions you could ask that are guaranteed to keep your appointment laser focused and leave you armed with weight loss knowledge!
What is my goal weight?
The quickest way to burn out of your weight loss aspirations is to work towards an unclear or undefined goal. Furthermore, no two bodies are the same and so comparing your weight to others can be unhealthy both physically and emotionally.
In order to grasp a more firm understanding of your body and the kinds of results you should be aiming for, finding a healthy weight for your body type is paramount. The number your doctor will give you will take a few things into account such as your height, health history, and BMI.
Once you have a number to reach for, you’ll find the road towards your weight loss goals will instantly become less foggy.
How long will it take?
Many may feel that this question is too presumptuous or even makes them come off as impatient and unmotivated. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Much like having an end result in the form of a goal weight, knowing how much you should be losing daily is all too essential in maintaining motivation.
Most experts will advise losing around 1-2 pounds a week but, of course, this can vary based on the patient.
What other benefits are there?
It goes without saying that losing body fat is a worthwhile endeavor and one that promises bolstered health and self confidence. Of course any health specialist can tell you that the benefits don’t end there. Losing excess weight can help those suffering from blood pressure get off of their medication and in some cases can even help treat anxiety! Be sure to ask your doctor for the other benefits you stand to gain for a little bit of extra motivation!
Conclusion
It takes more than activity and a few cut calories to lose weight in a healthy way. Your first weapon against excess body fat is knowledge and you have a prime source of that resource in you health specialist. Always be asking questions and stay informed on your journey to a healthier you!
BeLite can help patients translate emerging obesity-medicine evidence into an individualized plan that considers efficacy, tolerability, nutrition, muscle preservation, long-term maintenance, and access.BeLite Medical Center has provided physician-supervised medical weight management in Fairfax, Virginia since 1995. Our clinic offers in-person medical supervision — with the ability to adjust medications and monitor your progress in real time — that fully virtual services cannot match.Booking appointments is simple with our online scheduling portal, available 24/7. You can also call or text us at (703) 359-9200, or email belitemed@gmail.com. We offer free consultations for new patients — if you choose not to enroll, there is no charge. We serve patients across Virginia, Maryland, Washington D.C., the DMV area, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Patients do not sign treatment contracts and can stop coming at any time
Medical Disclaimer
This blog post is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not intended to substitute for consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. Readers should not use this information to diagnose or treat a medical or health condition without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Any reliance on the information in this blog is at the readers own risk. Individual weight loss results vary based on personal health status and adherence to medical advice. No doctor-patient relationship is created by accessing or reading this content.
Reviewed by Richard Rothman, MD, PhD — Medical Director, BeLite Medical Center.
About Richard B Rothman MD, PhD, Medical Director, BeLite Medical Center
Dr. Rothman is the Medical Director of BeLite Medical Center, which has been helping patients lose weight in the Northern Virginia area since 1996. Board certified in Psychiatry, Dr. Rothman earned his M.D. and Ph.D. in Pharmacology from the University of Virginia in 1982.
