A doctor can offer recommendations and options to support your weight loss goals. A little pre-visit prep work on your part can lead to an easier, more productive conversation.
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A doctor can give you recommendations for weight loss if you are struggling to manage your weight. They can offer referrals to dietitians, therapists, and support groups along with prescriptions for weight loss medications.
You’re not alone if you feel nervous about having a conversation about weight loss with a doctor. This article provides tips and information that can help.
Before visiting a doctor, you can prepare to have a weight loss conversation by:
- writing down notes about your medical history
- creating a list of your weight-related questions
- making a food or exercise diary to share with your doctor
- checking what weight loss-related services your insurance covers
If you wish to have a weight loss conversation with a doctor, you can mention your weight concerns in your doctor’s preexam paperwork or questionnaires. You can also bring them up during your visit when your doctor asks about any health concerns you have.
Your doctor may also bring up concerns they have about your weight and how it’s affecting your health. If this happens, you may feel nervous or defensive, but remember your doctor wants to work with you to keep you as healthy as possible.
During initial weight loss discussions, it’s important to talk with your doctor about a goal weight and a reasonable timeframe for achieving this. If you have health concerns that are driving you to lose weight, you’ll want to discuss these with your doctor as well.
Before ending the discussion, it’s a good idea to…
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