Why Is Being Overweight So Bad For My Health?
Being overweight or obese has been linked by medical researchers with an array of very serious health problems, including:
- High Blood Pressure
- High Cholesterol
- Heart Attack and Heart Disease
- Stroke
- Atherosclerosis
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Some types of cancer
- Hormonal fluctuations and disorders
- Depression and other mood disorders
How Is A Medical Weight Management Program Different From Commercial Diet Plans?
Commercial diet plans are based on broad principles of weight loss that are rarely applicable to most people. For instance, while it makes sense that eating less will result in weight loss, many people struggle with diets because they cause or contribute to underlying nutritional deficiencies that can result in virtually undeniable cravings and the desire to overeat. Plus, commercial plans don't take individual health considerations or goals into account. A medical weight management program is based on an in-depth medical and lifestyle evaluation for optimal success. Eating plans are nutritionally balanced and developed for the patient's individual needs and preferences, and patients are closely supervised to ensure their weight loss plan evolves as their needs change. Medical weight management plans are especially important for managing the health needs of patients with chronic issues like high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease.
What Is Involved In A Weight Management Program?
Our weight management program begins with a comprehensive exam and a discussion of the patient's weight loss goals. The program itself is divided into three phases:
- Quick-start Phase: We prescribe a nutrient-rich, low-calorie diet to help patients “jump start” their weight loss journey and build confidence. Behavioral counseling is also provided to help patients make smart eating and lifestyle choices.
- Transition Phase: During this phase, patients continue with the prescription diet and begin adding in foods they love and tailoring their activities in preparation for the third phase.
- Maintenance Phase: Once the patient has achieved their goals, this phase enables them to maintain their results by “working their plan” every day
By the third phase, many patients are able to reduce or eliminate medications and enjoy healthier happier lives.
