Weight management is an important topic for many patients, and help is as close as your primary care office!
Primary care providers can support patients with dietary guidance, exercise plans, and weight loss medications.
The goal is not only to help patients with their weight, but to improve their overall health and lower their risk of serious conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is rarely about a single change; little changes make big impacts.
Diet and activity and other lifestyle changes are the building blocks, but medications and surgery can be a vital part of the treatment plan. As a Primary Care Provider and Obesity Specialist, Cyrilyn Walters, MD, MPH helps patients design an effective, manageable, and safe plan; something that studies show works better than doing it alone.
“My goal isn’t just to help you lose weight. It is to improve your overall health and reduce your risk of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer,” Dr. Walters said.
Here’s how it works:
“Let’s start with weight loss medications, since they’re a hot topic. These medications are safe and effective for many patients, but they aren’t for everyone,” Dr. Walters said.
Your clinician should learn about YOUR goals to help determine your best options.
Weight loss medications can have side effects from the medications themselves or from reduced eating; therefore, weight loss shots and pills should only be used under the care of your primary care provider or another specialist.
“As primary care providers, we have a lot of tools to help you maintain a healthy weight – and we do it with a focus on overall health,” Dr. Cyrilyn Walters said.
They also shouldn’t be viewed as a magic solution, Dr. Walters said.
“Think of them as a support system to lifestyle changes. You’ll get the best results and improve overall health if you attack from all aspects.”
When it comes to diet, Dr. Walters has some tips to keep in mind if you use weight loss drugs.
She recommends nutrient-dense, not calorie dense, foods.
Lean proteins like chicken, fish, eggs, and beans help maintain muscle and keep you full. High-fiber vegetables, fruits, and whole grains support digestion and help prevent some gastrointestinal side effects that may occur with certain medications.
Healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and olive oil support heart health and energy, and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water manages appetite and supports metabolism.
Speaking of metabolism, don’t forget your activity!
“Increased physical activity and strength training improve results from weight loss medications and make it easier to maintain results,” Dr. Walters said. “You’ll build muscles and bone strength that reduce disease and increase longevity.”
Healthy lifestyle changes like a nutritious diet and regular exercise help with weight management.
A combination of aerobic activity, strength training and stretching is the best combination for a healthy body.
Remember, consistency is more important than intensity.
“I focus on helping patients make gradual changes that are realistic based on their lifestyle,” Dr. Walters said. “As primary care providers, we have a lot of tools to help you maintain a healthy weight – and we do it with a focus on overall health.”