Weight Management Program

Starting A Weight Management Program

A weight loss management program takes a lifetime commitment by the person who is obese. A physician needs to be consulted before the patient begins any program. A weight management program may need to incorporate the expertise of a dietitian, psychologist, physician, and pharmacist to be thoroughly effective.

Fad diets that promote rapid weight loss without physician supervision should be avoided. Obese persons must consume less food and expend more energy by exercising. All programs must include behavior modification. To be successful, programs must motivate the person to continue a healthy life style and maintain the weight loss. Losing weight is not an easy process, but a supervised program that promotes slow (one-half to one pound loss per week) weight loss is the most successful.

Your Role In A Weight Management Program

A weight management program is important if you are obese. Become educated about the health risks associated with being overweight and obese.

• Obesity is a chronic condition that must be treated for life

• Losing weight can improve blood glucose control, lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and improve self esteem

• See a physician before starting any weight loss and exercise program

• Avoid fad diets that aren't nutritionally balanced

• Plan meals ahead of time

• Avoid skipping meals

• Drink plenty of water

• Use food labels to help plan your diet

• Start an exercise program slowly and build up to your level

• Incorporate exercise into your daily life, i.e. park farther away and use stairs

• Do not take more than one weight loss agent at a time

• Ask your pharmacist or physician about OTC drug interactions with prescription weight loss drugs

• If taking Meridia, have your blood pressure monitored regularly

• Decrease fat intake when taking Xenical to avoid side effects

• Supplement your diet with fat-soluble vitamins when taking Xenical.

Monitor your result when taking weight loss medications and pass the information on to your physician.  This monitoring should include weight checks, blood pressure checks, blood glucose readings, cholesterol readings, and recording side effects of the medications.