Many people suffer from obesity for many years of their lives.  The only solutions to the problem are weight loss and a healthier balanced diet and we all know it’s easier to gain weight than lose it.  The most important thing is to do it in the safest way possible and talk to your doctor about what is the best option for you.  The good thing is that there are a variety of options to choose from.

Behavior Modification and Physical Activity

This plan works in solidarity or with other weight lost plans.    This plan starts with simple changes in lifestyle and changing eating behaviors.  Here are a few key factors in this plan:

• Changing eating habits
• Increasing physical activity        
• Becoming educated about your body       
• Engaging in a support group      
• Setting realistic weight-loss management goals

This is an involved process that is all you!  Keep a diary of your progress; document records you set in your diary, and keep your exercise plan there. Set goals for your self, starting with moderate activity such as walking and or a simple bike ride and work toward more vigorous activity such as jogging or cycling.

Commercial Programs

We have all seen them on television, the different types of programs for weight loss as well as diet plans.  They all might not be right for you but they are worth some research to find out if they are.  Some places have a lot of good resources for you to look at online as well as counselors on site to help your formulae a plan.  Just to name a few:

• Jenny Craig
• Nutri/System
• Weight Watchers
• Slim-Fast
• Curves Diet
• Atkins Diet

Physician Supervised

This process is a patient/doctor effort.  This program is generally designed for people who are obese that are also suffering from a chronic illness such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and many more.  They doctor, nurse or dietitian works closely with you to formulate a weight loss plan including physical activity, a diet plan, treatment with medication and maybe surgery.  With this, process patients can expect to have full medical evaluations done including blood work.  Patients may also learn of some options dealing with the more emotional side of obesity such as psychological help and support groups.

Bariatric Surgery

This option is the absolute last resort to weight loss solutions.  Along with your doctor, you decide what is the best option for you.  In order to be considered for weight loss surgery the patients BMI has to be 40 or over and 35 and over if there are accompanying preexisting conditions..  In terms of pounds, generally patients would be 100 pounds or more over weight to qualify.  Listed below are the most common options patients and physicians choose.  

• Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
• Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding
• Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch
• Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
 
No matter what you choose in weight lost solutions, discuss your plans with your doctor.  For more information please visit www.womenshealth