Preparing for Your Weight Loss Visit With Your Doctor

How Do I Talk to My Doctor About Weight Loss? 

The first step in your weight loss journey is to make an appointment with your physician. This appointment can be in person or a virtual visit. Make sure you schedule a weight loss specific visit so you have enough time. Be prepared to have an honest talk with your healthcare provider about your health. 

The conversation about weight loss and your health can feel slightly uncomfortable. Try not to worry. Remember your provider is used to these types of conversations and they can’t help you unless you are honest and up-front with them. If your weight is affecting your physical or mental health, it’s time to stop worrying about the embarrassment and speak honestly. 

Make sure you are ready to address any medical conditions you have that influence your diet or limit your ability to exercise. Go over any factors that may have caused the weight gain in the first place. 

Questions Your Doctor Might Have for You About Weight Loss

Be prepared for your doctor to ask you many questions during your appointment as well. They may ask you about your health history, diet, lifestyle choices, exercise habits, work and home life. Your doctor will take all of the information you have provided and help you determine a plan of action.

Take some time before your appointment to write down questions you may have. Bring a pen and paper to take notes as well. 

Here are some questions you may want to ask your doctor about your weight loss: 

• Am I at risk for developing any other conditions related to my weight?
• Do I need to lose weight?
• Are any of my current symptoms related to my weight? 
• Are there any medications or lifestyle choices that I’m making that are contributing to my weight?
• Is there a medication that can help me with my weight loss? 
• What plan should I follow to lose weight?

What Happens After I Talk to My Doctor About Weight Loss? 

Your doctor will take all of the information they have gathered and come up with a weight loss plan based on your specific weight loss needs. Your plan might include keeping a food diary, seeing a dietitian, having lab work drawn or starting a weight loss medication. You will most likely need to schedule follow up appointments so your doctor can monitor your progress and keep you on track. Make sure and keep these appointments to continue to reach your weight loss goals. 

Always seek medical advice before beginning any weight loss program. Dr. John at Mountain West Medical in Meridian, Idaho is now seeing patients through virtual visits for weight loss.