The Skinny on Weight Loss

Weight Loss

The Skinny on Weight Loss

Nearly everyone knows there is an obesity epidemic in the United States, with every state reporting to the Center for Disease Control(CDC) that at least 20% of its population is obese. Texas reports over 30% of its population is obese. Yes, obesity is a problem, but what can you do about it?

You’ve probably heard from more than one source that diet and exercise are the keys to sustained weight loss and maintenance. And there is reason for this, a study published by the National Institute of Health (NIH) shows that overweight people who followed a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet in addition to establishing an exercise routine lost 10% more weight than those who did not make any changes in their daily routine.

However, sometimes you eat right and you exercise and the weight doesn’t seem to want to come off. While you should already be working in conjunction with your doctor and registered dietician, this is an especially good time to consult with them. Either one of them may have some suggestions to help jump-start your weight loss efforts. Your doctor may also decide to prescribe weight loss medication.

In recent years there have been several prescription weight loss medicines approved by the FDA. While all of them have been proven to work, each of them works in a different way so it’s important to talk to your primary provider about which one is best for you.

One of the more recent medications is actually a daily injection and not an oral medication. This medicine was initially used to treat diabetes, however, when doctors started seeing their patients lose weight it was further developed into a weight loss treatment. Of course, this is something you will need to ask your doctor about, as she will have to write you a prescription for it.

Even with taking medication to help with your weight loss it is still important to make healthy choices, both in your food choices and in your daily movement. The medication is a supplement to your nutrition and exercise, not a replacement for it. As always, before beginning a weight loss regimen, consult your primary care provider.

If you need help or have any questions please contact us!

 

Author
Kairos

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