Between fad diets and hundreds of “clinically approved” pills, losing weight can feel like an uphill battle. The disappointment and frustration when nothing seems to work is quite real. The situation is even worse for those who wish to lose stubborn fat without undergoing extensive procedures.
Enter weight loss programs, specifically designed to help individuals lose weight, that use safe, effective, and scientifically backed methods. Whether you’re struggling to lose stubborn fat or seeking long-term weight management, medical weight loss programs can help you achieve your dream body type.
Let’s take a closer look at how weight loss programs work and what they include:
What is Medical Weight Loss?
Medical weight loss is the process of losing weight under the guidance and supervision of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and dietitians. Healthcare professionals create a personalized approach tailored to the individual’s goals and medical history.
The goal of medical weight loss is not just to quickly lose weight, but to keep it off. It can create sustainable changes to your lifestyle, improving your quality of life.
How Weight Loss Programs Work
Medical weight loss programs offer more than just prescriptions and suggestions. They are ongoing efforts involving various steps. Here’s what a medical weight loss program typically includes:
Initial Consultation to Create a Personalized Plan
One of the most important components of a medical weight loss program is a thorough medical examination. Healthcare professionals at a medical weight loss clinic will take your complete medical history. They will also conduct blood tests to identify any underlying conditions and body composition analysis to measure fat percentage and body mass.
You can also discuss your weight loss goals to help the provider tailor their approach. If you’re living in Albuquerque, book a consultation with a reputable weight loss clinic Albuquerque, and take the first step toward healthy living.
Behavior Modification and Addressing Physiological Reasons
Weight loss is not just about stopping yourself from eating, but understanding your motives and attitude towards food. There are several behavioral modifications you can adopt to achieve successful weight loss management, such as eating while seated at the kitchen table or keeping tempting snacks out of sight. These modifications can double in impact with the input of a healthcare professional.
Your doctor or dietitian will analyze your eating patterns and motivations. They might suggest strategies to identify triggers and to implement positive changes. The goal is to help you make mindful eating habits.
Dietary Changes That You Can Live With
Mindful food choices can help you lose weight. Depending on your current and desired weight, a healthcare professional will suggest a dietary plan. Remember that no food is completely off-limits. The goal is to help you take a balanced diet that doesn’t have more calories than your body needs.
Your dietitian might introduce less refined carbs and more fiber to your diet. They might limit food with added sugar. Dietitians may also suggest that you opt for whole grains over refined grains, such as rice or wheat.
With ongoing support from a dietitian, you will understand how your food choices affect your weight.
Exercise and Physical Activity
Losing weight through physical exercise is difficult. With professional guidance, you can adopt methods that best work with your lifestyle. Doing exercise is not about turning your life upside down: It is about incorporating physical activity into your lifestyle.
Many weight loss clinics employ physical trainers to help people safely lose weight with exercise. Your trainer might recommend a combination of aerobic activities, such as running, brisk walking, dancing, and strength training like squats and push-ups. The aim is to burn calories and build muscle.
Weight Loss Medications
Taking weight loss medications alone is not impactful and can even lead to severe consequences. They work best as part of a larger weight loss program. Common prescription weight loss medications include:
- Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic)
- Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro)
- Phentermine (Adipex, Suprenza)
- Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia)
Your physician will prescribe a limited amount of medication, typically for 4-6 weeks, to see how your body reacts to it.
Weight loss medications work in various ways. For example, they might:
- Reduce your appetite by providing a feeling of fullness
- Reduce your craving for certain foods
- Help your body metabolize fewer calories
- Help your body quickly burn calories
Remember that weight loss medications are not for everyone. Depending on your age, medical history, and current weight, a physician will recommend medications.
Benefits of Following a Medical Weight Loss Program
Compared to diets, surgical procedures, and cut-throat exercises, weight loss programs are more effective and sustainable. Here are some benefits:
Personalized Guidance
Weight loss is not a one-size-fits-all approach. At a weight loss clinic, professionals will analyze your unique circumstances and offer personalized guidance. They will also identify any barriers that may prevent you from achieving your weight loss goals.
Improved Overall Health
Research shows that losing weight through sustainable means can significantly improve overall health. Reductions in blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels are common. This can reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Weight loss can also reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Medical weight loss programs are designed to address all of these concerns and boost your overall health.
Support Throughout the Process
Losing weight can be emotionally challenging. The individualized attention offered in a weight loss program can provide motivation.
Safe and Suitable
Medical weight loss is suitable for individuals who have tried isolated diets or followed exercise routines but have achieved no significant results. Moreover, weight loss programs are safe due to the inclusion of behavioral modification methods and physical exercise. Reputable weight loss clinics always use and recommend FDA-approved medications to mitigate any safety concerns.
Final Thoughts
Weight loss programs don’t follow a predetermined timeline. Some people start dropping pounds right away, while others take a bit longer. Remember that medical weight loss isn’t a quick fix, but a journey towards a healthy lifestyle. Stay consistent and adopt a positive attitude to lose weight and maintain it.
