Have you ever tried to lose weight on your own? Maybe you’ve tried a fad diet or two. Or, perhaps you’ve exercised regularly but still can’t seem to drop those extra pounds. If you’re like most people, you’ve probably tried everything but nothing seems to work.
You’re not alone.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one-third of adults in the United States are obese. And, despite all of our efforts, the obesity epidemic is only getting worse. This is why more and more people are turning to medical weight loss for help.
In this article, we’re going to dispel some of the myths about medical weight loss. We’ll also give you some tips on what to look for if you’re considering this option.
Myth #1: Medical Weight Loss Is a Quick Fix
If you’re looking for a quick fix, medical weight loss is not for you. This is a comprehensive program that includes diet, exercise, and behavioral counseling. It’s not a “miracle cure” that will help you lose weight overnight.
Myth #2: Anyone Can Benefit from Medical Weight Loss
While medical weight loss can be an effective way to lose weight, it’s not right for everyone. This type of program is usually recommended for people who are obese (BMI of 30 or higher) or who are struggling to lose weight despite making lifestyle changes.
Myth #3: Medical Weight Loss Is Expensive
The cost of medical weight loss varies depending on the program you choose. Some programs may be covered by insurance, while others may not.
Myth #4: Medical Weight Loss Is Risky
Medical weight loss is generally safe when it’s done under the supervision of a doctor or other healthcare professional. However, as with any type of weight loss program, there are some risks involved. These include potential side effects from the medications used in the program, such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation.
What are the factors to consider when deciding if medical weight loss is right for you?
Now that we’ve debunked some of the myths about medical weight loss, let’s talk about what you should consider if you’re thinking about this option.
- Your Health
Before starting any weight loss program, it’s important to talk to your doctor. This is especially true if you have any health concerns or conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease.
- Your Weight Loss goals
It’s important to have realistic expectations when it comes to weight loss. A good goal to set is losing 5-10% of your body weight. This may not seem like much, but it can make a big difference in your health.
- Your Budget
As we mentioned earlier, the cost of medical weight loss varies depending on the program you choose. Some programs may be covered by insurance, while others may not. Be sure to find out what your options are before you commit to a program.
- Your Time Commitment
Medical weight loss is a long-term commitment. This is not a “quick fix” solution. Most programs last for at least six months, and some may even last for a year or more.
What are the benefits of medical weight loss?
There are many benefits to medical weight loss, including:
- Improved health. Medical weight loss can help improve your overall health by reducing your risk for obesity-related conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Nothing is more important than your health, so this is a major benefit of medical weight loss.
- More energy. When you lose weight, you’ll likely have more energy. This is because carrying around extra weight can be taxing on your body. So, if you’ve been struggling with fatigue, medical weight loss may help.
- Enhanced self-esteem. Losing weight can improve your self-esteem and body image. This is because you’ll likely feel better about yourself when you reach your weight loss goals.
- Better quality of life. Medical weight loss can also improve your quality of life. This is because you’ll be able to do more activities that you enjoy and you’ll likely feel better overall.
These are just a few of the benefits of medical weight loss. If you’re considering this type of program, be sure to talk to your doctor to see if it’s right for you.