Medical weight loss programs are structured and supervised strategies for weight reduction that are based on medical scientific principles and are delivered by medical professionals. Here's a comprehensive overview of the process and principles of our medical weight loss program:
1. Initial Assessment:
- Medical History Review: A detailed examination of the patient's medical history to identify any underlying conditions or medications that might be contributing to weight gain or hindering weight loss.
- Physical Examination: A thorough physical check-up to assess overall health, vital signs, and any obesity-related complications.
- Laboratory Tests: Blood tests to check cholesterol levels, blood sugar, thyroid function, and other markers that can influence weight.
2. Personalized Plan Development:
- Dietary Assessment: Understanding the patient's current eating habits, preferences, and any dietary restrictions.
- Activity Level Evaluation: Gauging the patient's current level of physical activity and fitness.
- Behavioral Assessment: Identifying any behavioral or emotional factors that might be influencing eating habits or activity levels.
3. Customized Interventions:
- Dietary Plan: Creating a tailored nutrition plan that aligns with the patient's weight loss goals, preferences, and nutritional needs.
- Exercise Regimen: Designing a structured physical activity program that is safe and effective for the patient.
- Behavioral Counseling: Offering strategies and tools to address emotional eating, stress management, and other behavioral factors.
4. Medical Therapies:
- Prescription Medications: Some patients might benefit from weight loss medications that can help suppress appetite, increase metabolism, or reduce fat absorption. These include the GLP-1 medicines Semaglutide also known as Ozempic and Mounjaro or medicine such as Phentermine or QSymia.
- Supplements: Recommending vitamins or supplements to ensure nutritional needs are met during the weight loss process.
5. Ongoing Monitoring and Support:
- Regular Check-ups: Scheduled visits to monitor weight loss progress, adjust interventions, and address any challenges.
- Support Groups: Offering group sessions where patients can share experiences, challenges, and successes with peers.
6. Maintenance Phase:
- Transition Planning: As patients approach their weight loss goals, the focus shifts to maintaining the weight loss over the long term.
- Continued Support: Ongoing counseling and support to help patients navigate challenges and prevent weight regain.
7. Addressing Complications:
- Management of Side Effects: Some weight loss interventions can have side effects. These are addressed promptly and adjustments are made as needed.
- Treatment of Obesity-Related Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea might improve with weight loss, and medications or treatments for these conditions might need adjustment.
In essence our medical weight loss program offers a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to weight reduction, ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and sustainable strategies tailored to their unique needs and challenges.