Losing weight seems like a fairly straightforward process. You change your diet and you go outside more often, right?
Sadly, this is the very definition of ‘easier said than done’. While some can certainly lose a few pounds on their own, keeping the weight off is another matter entirely. This can be caused by relapsing into old behavior or just plain ol’ genetics. Whatever the reason is for you, reaching out to a weight loss doctor and asking some questions can be the best thing for your future goals. Together you’ll create a plan — which may or may not include bariatric surgery — to make sure you go all the way in your journey.
Here are five things you should know about doctor supervised weight loss, from dietary changes to gastric sleeve surgery.
Many Americans Are Dieting, But Only Some Are Succeeding
You might already know a few people in your life trying to commit to a diet. It sounds easy on paper to cut back on sugar and trade those chips for a yogurt, right? According to recent studies, a whopping 65% of Americans today are on a diet. As many as 80% of these dieters are attempting to lose weight on their own, which already brings up its own set of problems. Committing to a good habit takes consistent effort and, more often than not, a little outside support.
Weight Gain Can Be Influenced By Genetics
You’ll want to contact a weight loss doctor not just to give you a leg up on your bad habits, but to learn about the source of your weight gain. For some weight gain is caused by sedentary behavior and excess consumption of fatty foods. For others it’s more influenced by genetics, such as a slow metabolism. One survey found 50% of American respondents admitting they’re unsuccessful at losing weight because they don’t have enough self-discipline. Imagine adding a frustrating thing like DNA to the mix!
Dietary Changes And Sleep Changes Are Crucial
Even if genetics are partially to blame for packing on pounds, you’ll still need to switch up your diet. Every little thing you put into your body will reveal itself in time…and that goes for the good stuff, too! Reaching for a bag of trail mix instead of a candy bar or drinking more water than soda is a simple, yet effective way to start changing. A 2016 Mintel Diet Trends survey saw 70% of respondents agreeing that a strong support system is essential to achieve diet goals. Need even more motivation?
Obesity Can Lead To Long-Term Health Complications
You’ll want to talk with a weight loss doctor about obesity as soon as possible, because it remains one of the leading health issues in the country today. One out of three American adults today are considered to be obese, with this figure expected to hold steady for years to come. Health problems associated with obesity are also the second leading cause of preventable death. These include high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, chronic pain, and mobility issues. For those in which a healthy lifestyle is not enough, you can talk to a weight loss doctor about surgery.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery Is A Useful And Flexible Option
Surgery is a scary word for many. It brings to mind post-surgery complications and scarring, never mind the potential for wasted money. Gastric bypass surgery, however, is a very commonly used resource with a high rate of success. Patients are able to lose as much as 70% of their excess weight after duodenal switch surgery, which focuses primarily on stomach size. Obesity is defined as a person weighing at least 20% more than what is considered an average weight for their height and age.
Your probability for success is a lot higher than you think. Ask a weight loss doctor how you can start realizing your dreams this year.