Questions To Ask Your Doctor About Your Weight Loss Program

Your weight loss journey does not begin with a dumbbell; it starts with a decision in your head. Before you take the lofty step of getting that gym membership card, getting those nice joggers and sneakers, or starting that YouTube fitness tutorial to decide what to add and remove from your nutrition, you need to see a doctor. Making the right decision in a world full of confusing and contradictory information on the internet may be a lot to handle. It is important to see a doctor because the goal of a weight loss program is to improve your health and not solely lose weight.

Hence, visit a clinic for an expert opinion on how to start this interesting journey. Weight loss requires a highly personalized medical opinion on the nutrition and weight loss strategies best suited for you based on your medical history. To help in this important decision of embarking on a weight loss program, here are some questions to ask your doctors for weight loss to help facilitate the first conversation with your doctor and foster the whole communication process in understanding what the weight loss program entails:

1. Do I Need To Lose Weight?

First, you need to know if losing weight is right for you. The question may seem silly, but the shocking truth is that weight loss may not be the best move for you. Doctors know your health history and can advise you based on that information. For instance, if you have osteoporosis, you may need to focus on building muscle rather than losing weight.

2. How Much Weight Should I Lose?

Everyone has a unique body and physiological makeup. Therefore, the weight loss goal differs from person to person. Knowing the pounds to lose will keep you in the health safety zone. Don’t overdo it because it looks cool. Ask your doctor about the ideal weight goal for you. Your doctors understand your genetic history, age, and overall health condition. So, they will give you a personalized healthy weight recommendation without any side effects.

3. Do I Have Any Health Issues Affecting My Weight?

Your doctor will help you understand the connection between your health problems and your weight loss journey. For instance, thyroid disorders and diabetes may impact your efforts to lose weight. It is good to ask this question if you have a family history of a disease.

4. Am I Taking Any Medication That Affects My Weight Loss Plan?

This question is important if you are on medication. Ask the doctors if the medication will impact your weight loss journey. Antidepressants and steroids will likely affect your weight loss journey because they are associated with increased appetite and slow metabolism. Depending on your health history, your doctor may need to monitor specific health changes like blood pressure and blood sugar as you go on your weight loss journey. If you have any medication that may affect your weight loss, your doctor might be able to change your dosage.

5. What Weight Loss Treatment Should I Consider?

In your weight loss program, you will have different treatment options. Ask the specialist to know which option to take. Your doctor will explain the risks and benefits of each option. They will also recommend the best one that fits you.

6. When Will I Achieve My Weight Loss Goal?

After determining how much weight you need to lose, your doctor will explain the timeline to achieve this goal. For example, the doctor may advise you to lose 1-2 pounds weekly. The weight loss journey isn’t fast and furious; it is slow and steady. The doctors will help you understand the importance of breaking down the goals. They will also tell you when it is okay to change your goal.

7. What Are The Health Benefits of Losing Weight?

There are numerous benefits to losing weight. However, asking this question will help you understand the specific benefits you will enjoy. Knowing the specific benefits is enough motivation to keep you on track.

8. Do I Need To Make Any Lifestyle Changes?

Effective weight loss doesn’t happen through exercise and diet only. Your lifestyle choices, like sleep and stress, can affect weight loss. For example, lack of sleep slows down metabolism, which makes it harder to lose weight. You may need to adjust to certain lifestyle choices and change your food composition. Asking your doctor will help you know where you need extra effort to maintain good lifestyle habits.

9. What Type of Exercise Should I Start With?

Some individuals don’t know that some exercise activities are pursued to achieve specific goals. This means it is not all exercises that will benefit you on your weight loss journey. The type of exercise you need depends on how much weight you need to lose and the part of your body that is targeted.

If you are new to exercising, you may need to start with low-impact exercises (like brisk walking and running) before gradually starting high-intensity exercises (like cycling and CrossFit). The doctor is in the best position to give you personalized advice on exercise routines suitable for your health and fitness level.

10. Should I speak to other specialists?

Ask your doctor if you need the help of other specialists. After the initial consultation, this question will help the doctor know the specialist you should see. For instance, if your stress management activities affect your weight loss plans, the doctor can recommend that you speak to a therapist for the weight loss program to be more effective. If you have physical restrictions, you may require the help of a cardiologist, orthopedic doctor, or rheumatologist. For nutrition, the doctor can direct you to a dietitian or nutritionist.

11. How Often Should I Check-in With You?

Your consultation with the doctor should be continuous, not just at the beginning. This question will help the doctor determine the method and frequency of follow-up consultations. It will also help you to get the necessary health support throughout the journey. Additionally, follow-up questions are important if you have health issues or regular medications.

Conclusion

Questions are eye-openers. This stage of asking the right questions is important. You can’t assume you know enough when your doctor has the best experience to hold your hands throughout the process. Start the journey today with questions, stay in communication with your doctor and bring more questions at follow-up meetings to get the best out of your weight loss journey.