Weight Loss Services
Hazelwood Family Medicine
Two in five adult Americans have obesity. Many people wish to do something about it, yet many struggle to implement long-lasting change. There are many different diets out there. However, many of these people have tried all of them in some form, with more than half of diets failing. Many times this is due to a lack of support for those dieting. However, it is also can be a lack of willpower but also a lack of understanding of just what they need to do to not only lose weight but keep it off for good.
This time could be different due to new treatments that tackle obesity and chronic illnesses linked to obesity.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several prescription drugs, some of which are long-term treatments for weight loss and associated conditions. The effects can be life-altering when taken as directed, along with dietary and activity adjustments, and under a doctor’s supervision.
Remember that every prescription weight-loss drug has unique potential risks and advantages. This is why it’s vital to consult with a healthcare practitioner, such as Hazelwood Family Medicine, about your medical history and health objectives to see which medicine may be suitable for you.
How Does Weight Loss Medication Work?
The FDA-approved drugs each help weight loss in somewhat different ways. Some will help decrease your appetite and help you not feel as hungry. While others will help block your body from absorbing certain nutrients that can cause you to gain excessive weight.
It is crucial to remember that these drugs do not serve as a substitute for good eating and exercise. In fact, if you’re given a prescription for a weight-loss drug, your doctor could suggest some behavioral changes, like a diet and exercise routine, to help you get the most out of the drug. Many times there is a combination of changes in diet and exercise along with prescription medications to ensure success. This is not like other diets, though. This time, this will be a change in your lifestyle.
This doesn’t mean completely restricting your favorite foods, as that only leads to binge eating, but having a more balanced diet with proper nutrition.
You’ll first meet with a specialist that will help you get a more balanced meal plan in place as well as some lifestyle changes. Things such as not having unhealthy foods in your home at all times can significantly reduce your urge to eat them. Finding ways to improve your lifestyle in a manner that allows you to pack healthy lunches for work, for example, are things that you will discuss with your practitioner to get a better grasp on this new way of life.
Everyone is unique, and so will your weight loss plan. If you have questions regarding our weight loss prescription medications, contact us at 828-456-2828 to learn more.
Is Weight Loss Medication Needed?
The majority of people with weight-related health issues are candidates for weight loss medication. These ailments include, among others, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. These medications, when combined with a healthy lifestyle, help our patients beat many different ailments that come about due to their excessive weight. If you have had troubles in the past with your weight and diet and exercise just didn’t seem enough, you might want to consider setting up an appointment with us.
While our prescriptions do help many of our patients get on the road to weight loss, there are some things that we will need to address. One of the requirements is that you have a minimum Body-Mass Index (BMI). You must have a BMI of at least 30 if you don’t have a weight-related medical condition. However, if you do have a medical issue that is related to your weight, your BMI must be 27 or higher. This means that not everyone will qualify for our prescription option. However, don’t let that stop you from contacting us should you have weight concerns and would like some professional help.
Our team of experts is always here to assist our patients in meeting their weight loss goals. We not only offer weight loss prescription options but also weight loss planning for our patients. We understand the importance of having your weight under control. Because of this, we have various solutions and options to help our patients meet and exceed their goals. Give us a call at 828-456-2828 to find out more.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most typical adverse effects of weight loss drugs are upset stomach, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, nausea, fatigue, and headache. Of course, there are some other more adverse side effects. If you are interested in learning more about the cons of prescription medications for weight loss, we would certainly be happy to discuss them.
Our goal is to provide you with the safest and most reliable way for weight loss, this will sometimes include a prescription, and other times we will work solely on your diet and exercise routine. Should you have questions about any of it, we are always happy to help.
Most of the time, it’s used until the patient reaches their ideal weight. However, if you have struggled in the past and want to keep the weight off, there may be options for you as well. It is important to keep in mind that no two weight loss journies are the same, so there isn’t one answer that fits all. However, this is an important question that will be discussed between you and your doctor to come up with a game plan that works best for you. If you should have questions or concerns regarding the length of time you would be on the prescription, you should bring this up at your next appointment to find out more.
Yes, if you don’t have insurance, you can still get access to weight loss prescription medications. The most important thing to remember when looking at weight loss medications is to always get your medications from a doctor you trust. It is not advised that you work with someone online that you have never worked with before.
Conclusion
Here at Hazelwood Family Medicine, we will be happy to help you and discuss your medical weight loss journey. Our team of experts takes great pride in helping our patients safely lose and keep weight off. If you want to learn more about our weight loss programs, call us at 828-456-2828 today!