Many people believe that when it comes to weight loss, it's simple math of calories in versus calories out. Shedding the pounds, however, is more complicated than doing a bit of subtraction.
This is one reason why three-quarters of Americans are overweight or obese and why so many people struggle to meet their weight loss goals. The good news is that help is available.
With personalized, compassionate care and a wide range of services including assistance with weight loss, our medical experts at The Healthy Woman can help you be as healthy as possible. Our primary care offices are conveniently located in Atlanta East and Lawrenceville, Georgia. Here’s how we can help you when diet and exercise on your own aren’t enough.
Who wouldn't like to look great in a swimsuit? But attaining an optimal weight is about so much more than your appearance. It's a crucial part of being healthy.
People who are overweight or obese are at increased risk for a variety of health conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and stroke.
Extra pounds can also contribute to issues ranging from fatty liver disease, kidney disease, sleep apnea and asthma, and gallbladder and pancreas diseases. It can also increase the odds of fertility struggles and problems during pregnancy that can affect both mother and baby.
Even living daily life can be affected by pain from conditions like osteoarthritis.
One pound is equal to 3,500 calories, so eating less should lead to weight loss, right? It seems logical, but it's not that simple in reality.
Everyone's body burns calories differently depending on their metabolism, which is determined by genetics, age, the amount of muscle mass, and even not getting enough sleep. Your gut microbiome also plays a role as some organisms encourage more calorie absorption from food than others.
In addition, the type of foods you eat — and not just their calorie content — can affect your weight. For example, ultra-processed foods are worse for your waistline than healthier, natural options.
Just because you’ve experienced challenges to losing weight doesn't mean the goal is unattainable. Sometimes it just takes a little bit of help in the form of medical weight loss.
At The Healthy Woman, this assistance comes in multiple forms to ensure there’s a solution — or combination of solutions — that's right for each patient. Personalized treatment plans customized to you and your needs tend to be the most successful.
This includes information and recommendations on dietary choices that are nutritious and metabolism-supporting (lean proteins, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits) while bypassing roadblocks to good health like excess sugar, saturated fats, and salt. Vitamin supplements may play a role as well.
Being physically active is also key. Part of the care plan can include a range of exercise options and recommendations so you can choose activities that appeal most to you.
The third component for some people may include prescription medication when diet and exercise alone aren't sufficiently effective. This could be a drug to suppress the appetite or a medication that revs up the metabolism to burn more calories.
Getting serious about losing weight is a big step, and you don't have to go it alone. Our experienced and caring primary care team at The Healthy Woman give you the tools you need — education, support, and prescription medication when appropriate — to meet your goals.
Call us at 770-809-1100 or request an appointment online today.
