If you’re struggling with getting down to a healthy weight, you’re not alone. Two-thirds of U.S. adults are classified as being overweight or obese. Since being overweight or obese can involve factors such as an unhealthy lifestyle, genetics, or a medical condition, most people find that it takes more than diet and exercise to achieve their goals.

Medical weight loss involves a weight loss program that is designed and supervised by medical professionals. Participating in this type of program means that you’re not alone in trying to navigate your weight loss journey. Instead of taking a hit-or-miss approach on your own, you’re guided in taking the right steps to achieve your weight loss goals.

You’ll get the best results from medical weight loss when you work with an experienced weight loss specialist. Winnie King, MD, is a board-certified physician who provides state-of-the-art medical weight loss programs for patients in Shenandoah and Houston, Texas. Dr. King and the team at her aesthetics and wellness practice work with you to reach your goals safely so you can enjoy the benefits of living with a healthy weight.

Being overweight can affect your self-confidence, quality of life, and overall well-being. It also increases your risk of serious health issues such as diabetes, heart problems, stroke, and even some forms of cancer. Find out about seven ways medical weight loss can make a difference in your life.

#1 Medical assessment

The first step in medical weight loss is a comprehensive health evaluation. This includes a medical history, physical exam, lab tests, and body analysis to determine your overall well-being.

The results of this assessment can identify issues such as a nutritional deficiency or a thyroid issue that may be contributing to your weight gain or affecting your metabolism. Based on the results, Dr. King can also determine whether existing medical conditions are controlled and identify new medical conditions that require further investigation.

#2 Personalized program

A medical weight loss program is personalized to your needs and goals. In planning your individual program, Dr. King carefully considers factors such as your physical composition, metabolism, medical condition, and even your overall outlook.

Your plan is designed to help you lose weight without risking the onset of complications from existing diseases like diabetes or hypertension. It’s also designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of your body. This positions you to lose weight safely and healthily now, while also teaching you how to maintain your weight and live a healthier lifestyle based on your individual needs.

#3 Medical supervision

Medical weight loss gives you access to constant medical supervision. This is important when making any significant lifestyle change, especially if you have an underlying medical condition.

Attending regular office visits with Dr. King allows her to evaluate your progress and make modifications when necessary. This may mean making changes in medication for an underlying medical condition or adjusting your weight loss program to improve your results.

#4 Range of treatments

Medical weight loss involves more than diet and exercise. Depending on your physical condition and weight loss goals, your medical weight loss plan may include more than diet and exercise. Additional treatments may include:

• hCG shots
• Lipo-B injections
• Prescription appetite suppressants
• Nutritional supplements
• Body contouring sessions

#5 Accountability

A medical weight loss plan typically includes weekly weigh-ins at Dr. King’s office. These visits hold you accountable for following through on your recommended diet and exercise plan.

Knowing you’re going to be held accountable for your actions can give you the incentive you need to make healthy choices in your diet, exercise, and lifestyle when you feel like cheating.

#6 Motivational support

It can be difficult to motivate yourself to stick to a diet regimen when you’re not achieving the results you desire. This can occur when your body becomes used to a new diet and activity level.

Dr. King and her team provide the motivational support you need to stay dedicated to your plan. They provide recommendations to overcome your plateaus well as emotional support to avoid triggers that may lead to unhealthy habits.

#7 Long-term success

Medical weight loss involves more than immediate weight reduction. Your individualized plan is designed to help you establish a healthy weight and maintain long-term results.

Medical weight loss includes the use of the right diet and exercise plan, as well as behavioral strategies, that can help you enjoy the health and aesthetic benefits of your weight loss. You may also find it helpful to use follow-up visits with Dr. King for long-term maintenance.

Find out more about medical weight loss and how it can help you achieve your goals. Call or send a message to our Shenandoah or Houston office today.