Why Your Primary Care Doctor is Also the Ideal Weight Management Provider

Now that over 40% of Americans are classified as obese, losing weight (and trying to keep it off) is a more common goal than ever. However, losing weight on your own, especially if you have a lot to lose, can feel lonely and challenging.

Fortunately, going after your goal weight with a primary care doctor experienced in weight loss, like  Jean Welsh, MD, of Primary & Alternative Medical Center in Silver Spring, Maryland, you can achieve your goals in the healthiest way possible. Read on to learn the benefits of partnering with a primary care physician to lose weight.

The connection between primary care and weight loss

Your weight is one of many ways our team monitors your overall health. We also look at factors like your:

•  Diet 
• Activity levels
• Blood pressure
• Overall health
• Family history of medical problems or weight challenges

As family practice providers, our team looks holistically at your entire family’s health and situation.

Our awareness of these factors and how they connect uniquely positions us to help you throughout your weight loss journey.

How primary care helps you with weight loss

At primary care appointments, such as your annual physical, our team tracks your weight and discusses how it impacts your broader health benchmarks. 

We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment for you to discuss any questions or concerns about your weight.

We make recommendations to help you lose weight based on full knowledge of your family medical history, lifestyle, and needs. Our team is also here to be a cheerleader and supporter throughout your journey.

If you only have a few pounds to lose, assistance at primary care appointments can be all you need. However, if you have more weight to lose or require additional support, we recommend joining our weight loss program.

Adding a weight loss program to primary care

Weight loss counseling enables us to address your concerns in an in-depth way. Beginning with the information we have as your primary care provider, combined with additional diagnostics, we carefully diagnose the reasons behind your weight challenges.

With our findings, we tailor a weight loss program that maximizes your success while reducing your risk of injury or aggravating any chronic conditions. 

Your weight loss program considers your overall health, including addressing any underlying health problems causing weight gain.

To help curb cravings and support your overall health, we use safe and effective medication to make weight loss easier. This includes an appetite suppressant and a weight loss shot filled with nutrients administered every two weeks.

We also help you create a diet and exercise plan targeted to your interests, current diet, and activity levels. Our team offers dietary advice, helping you create food plans that are healthy and the right portion size.

Once you’ve achieved your goal weight, you can return to primary care appointments or remain on our program while you maintain your weight loss. We regularly evaluate with you to see if the program is still meeting your needs.

Obtaining intensive weight loss support from your primary care provider allows us to manage your weight and overall health together easily. To start or continue your weight loss journey, contact us now.