Medically Managed Weight Loss
 

How medically managed weight loss can help you

We have been told in order to lose weight we need to exercise more and eat less.  Many people want to lose weight but still struggle to reach their goals following this advice.  That is because the weight loss equation is not this simple.  The reality is that weight loss involves complex processes that include appetite, fat burning, fat storage, and satiety that can be affected by many different variables.  Weight loss needs to be evaluated by looking at all contributing factors.

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There is not one solution to successful weight loss and everyone’s challenges are different.  If you are struggling to lose weight it could be from a slow metabolism, lack of sleep, increased stress, hormonal imbalances, medical conditions, a delay in feeling full, or issues with appetite.  It is important to look at your overall lifestyle and health when trying to lose weight and view weight loss from several different angles.  There are treatments designed to treat specific conditions that could be preventing you from reaching your weight loss goals.  For example, some treatments may help decrease your appetite or decrease the amount of fat absorbed from the food you eat.  Other treatments can help you feel full sooner or help to control excessive snacking or binge eating.  Every patient is unique and their weight loss plan needs to be customized to fit their needs for optimal weight loss results.

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Weight management involves activities and decisions we make throughout our day.  These can include:

• eating healthy foods and learning proper portion sizes

• creating an exercise regimen that fits your schedule and interests with reasonable goals to prevent burnout

• utilizing clinically proven & safe prescription weight management medications that are available

Heartland Health & Wellness is dedicated to providing the resources and treatment patients need in order to achieve their weight loss goals and improve their overall quality of life.

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What is Obesity?

Over 33% of adults in the United States are obese, which significantly increases their chances of having heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, or  high blood pressure.  Studies have found that a 5-10% reduction in weight can lower blood pressure and triglyceride levels and a nearly 60% reduction in the risk of diabetes for patients who are pre-diabetic.  Weight loss medications can help individuals who have health or lifestyle problems related to being overweight or have trouble losing weight on their own with regular physical activity and healthy eating.

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Obesity occurs when you take in more calories than you burn throughout the day, with genetic and hormonal influences that can contribute.  The body stores extra calories as fat, which overtime can accumulate resulting in increased weight.   Factors contributing to weight gain include:

• Unhealthy eating habits/diet: late night eating, drinking high calorie drinks, eating oversized portions, fast food, consuming high calorie foods

• Lack of sleep: sleeping less than 7 hours per night can change your hormones and lead to increased appetite and cravings for high calorie foods

• Inactivity: a sedentary lifestyle makes it easier to overeat

• Certain medications: some medications can contribute to weight gain. Examples include some anti-seizure medications, antidepressants, diabetes medications, beta blockers, steroids, and antipsychotic medications

• Medical conditions: specific medical conditions can contribute to weight gain. Examples include polycystic ovary syndrome, metabolic syndrome, Cushing’s syndrome, etc.