Weight loss drugs, medically guided weight loss, and fad diets have always been trendy, but have become even more popular in recent years. Not all medical weight loss is created equal, though, and some people won’t be great candidates for weight loss drugs. In this blog, we will look at who is the best candidate for medical weight loss and how it can help change the overall health of these clients, beyond just a number on the scale.
Types Of Medical Weight Loss
There are a variety of options when it comes to medical weight loss, including injectables, pills, and more. Here are some common types and some names you may have heard.
- GLP1s (injectable)
- Phentermine/Topiramate (combination pill)
- Bupropion/Naltrexone (combination pill)
- Orlistat (pill)
- Intragastric Balloons (surgical)
You Have A Body Mass Index Of 30 Or Above
Body Mass Index or BMI is used to calculate your weight and group you into different groups: underweight, average weight, overweight, and obese. A BMI of 30 is considered obese, which makes you a candidate for medical weight loss. Weight loss drugs can help patients lose weight quickly, which is especially helpful for those who have developed health concerns because of their weight. Certain medical conditions can cause people to gain excessive weight and make it difficult to lose weight. Seeking guidance for weight loss, nutrition counseling, and getting on weight loss drugs is best for those who have a high BMI.
You Have Tried Unguided Weight Loss In The Past
Losing weight can be extremely difficult, especially if you are targeting the wrong areas or are fighting against an underlying health issue. Working with a nutrition counselor or dietitian can help support your workouts with the right foods, help you retain muscle while on a weight loss drug, and make lifestyle changes that will support your overall health. Most people who go on a weight loss journey gain the weight back soon after because they lack support or proper nutrition. Working with a professional to help you on your health journey will help keep the weight off and set you up for long-term success.
Patients With Major Health Concerns
Patients who are overweight or who have a lack of physical activity are at higher risk for health concerns like heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, leg and joint pain, liver failure, and more. If you have developed one of these conditions, you are a potential candidate for a weight loss drug. Oftentimes, these patients don’t have the time to wait to see results from typical weight loss strategies. Limiting fat, reducing sugar and alcohol intake, and relieving pressure on joints are essential if a patient wants to avoid injury, extensive surgery, or even death.
You Are Ready To Form Better Habits
If you are ready to change your habits, take charge of your health, and listen to what a medical professional will suggest to you, medical weight loss is right for you. Those who are committed to a healthier lifestyle will commit to more than just taking the medication, but will change their diet, exercise habits, and more to help them maintain the results. While medical weight loss can help you rapidly lose pounds, it can also have negative side effects if you don’t do the work on your part. Those who are ready to take charge of their weight loss and overall health can benefit from working with a nutritionist, primary doctor, and a functional medicine doctor.
Medical Weight Loss From Regeneration Health
Our functional medicine doctors are here to help you accomplish your health goals. Regeneration Health offers a variety of services that can help you have more energy, support reproductive health, reduce health risks, and make you feel your best. Medical weight loss can be a touchy subject, but with the help of our skilled team, you can see optimal results without excessive side effects.
Regeneration Health offers medical weight loss drugs, nutritional counseling, diet plans for food sensitivities, and intermittent fasting. Promoting overall wellness through science-based methods is our goal here at Regeneration Health. As we age, go through different challenges, or have medical diagnoses, you should have a medical provider that you can trust. Reach out to us to learn more or book your first appointment.