Obesity is becoming a significant health concern worldwide, and adopting a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise is the cornerstone of weight management. However, most people struggle to achieve and maintain their desired weight solely through these strategies. Medical weight loss can be your best option if you are among these individuals. But who qualifies for medical weight loss? Let’s learn more.
Who Qualifies for Medical Weight Loss
Medical weight loss involves supervising and guiding healthcare experts, such as doctors, dietitians, and psychologists. They create a great weight management plan tailored to the individual’s needs. This approach goes beyond simple dieting and exercise.
Moreover, it may incorporate medication, behavioral therapy, and, in some instances, surgical interventions. So, who qualifies for medical weight loss? Although the criteria may differ depending on the healthcare provider and specific program, various factors determine eligibility.
- Body Mass Index (BMI)
BMI is a measure of body fat based on your height and weight. Generally, if you have a BMI of 30 or above, you are considered obese and a potential candidate for medical weight loss. Also, you are classified as overweight if your BMI is between 25 and 29.9. So you may also qualify if you have significant weight-related health issues.
- Weight-Related Health Conditions
Medical weight loss is often recommended for people with weight-related health conditions that put them at risk for significant complications. These may include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, joint problems, or cardiovascular infections. By targeting weight loss, you can improve your overall health and minimize the risk of associated diseases.
- Failed Attempts at Traditional Weight Loss
You might qualify for medical weight loss if you have tried and failed to lose weight through conventional methods such as diet and exercise. It is made for those who require additional support and interventions to achieve their weight loss goals.
- Medical Evaluation
Before starting a weight loss program, you should undergo a thorough medical evaluation. This helps assess your overall health and identify any underlying medical conditions affecting your weight loss journey. You might be eligible for medical weight loss if you have significant health conditions prone to weight loss supplements.
- Motivated and Committed Individuals
Successful weight loss requires dedication and commitment regardless of the method used. If you seek medical weight loss, you should be motivated to make lifestyle changes, follow the prescribed plan, and actively engage in treatment.
You must remember that medical weight loss is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Everyone is unique, and your weight loss journey should be approached accordingly. The involvement of healthcare professionals in a medical weight loss program is vital.
This helps ensure that the treatment plan is personalized. Also, it helps to consider any underlying medical conditions, medication interactions, or dietary restrictions. Therefore, before starting any medical weight loss program, seek advice from professional physicians.
Final thoughts
Medical weight loss is ideal if you are struggling with obesity or weight-related health conditions. By addressing the underlying causes of weight gain and offering comprehensive support, medical weight loss programs can help you achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health.
