It’s after the holidays, which means you’re currently being bombarded with commercial after commercial about weight loss and exercise. If you feel a twinge of guilt or anxiety when these come on, then you’re not alone. Approximately one third of the U.S. population is considered overweight, and another third is full on obese. That means that a large majority of the population has a weight issue!
These commercials are extremely discouraging if you are obese, because you probably know that trying to lose weight on your own in this case can be dangerous. Below are a few instances where you may want to consider medically supervised weight loss instead of the Planet Fitness subscription from the get-go:
You are considered “morbidly obese.”
Morbid obesity can loosely be defined as 100 or more pounds above your ideal weight. If this describes you according to a medical professional, then it is probably a good idea to embark upon a medical weight loss program that centrally involves a weight loss doctor. No, not every weight loss doctor is a charlatan. Many are dedicated physicians who have a special interest in helping you achieve weight loss for your health. A weight loss doctor will help you shed those extra pounds in a healthy way that won’t cause or exacerbate any existing health issues. In speaking of which…
You are at risk or have suffered from a heart attack or stroke.
If this describes you, then it is extremely important to involve a qualified medical professional in your weight loss journey. Why? Because if your cardiovascular system is already under stress, well-intentioned weight loss activities like exercise can increase your risk of another heart attack or stroke. A weight loss doctor can help you pace yourself and monitor your cholesterol and blood pressure levels to mitigate these risks as you strive to reach a healthier weight.
You have diabetes.
If you have diabetes, the same sort of medically accredited monitoring during the weight loss process applies. Drastic changes in diet or exercise habits can put your insulin levels off balance and lead to diabetic complications, something a weight loss doctor might be able to head off at the pass.
You are considering weight loss surgery
As you are probably aware, there are many weight loss surgeries available nowadays. Two of the most popular options include liposuction and gastric bypass surgery. Obviously, a weight loss doctor or other qualified medical professional will best be able to answer all of your questions about these surgical options, including the risks, benefits, and recovery times.
Weight loss shouldn’t be an idea that makes you anxious, or a New Year’s resolution that quickly falls by the wayside. Weight loss should be a long term health goal that you feel empowered and capable of reaching. Involving a doctor in the process will go a long way towards educating you and helping you complete a sustainable, healthy weight loss plan.
