Losing weight is no easy task, but there are some things that can make it less challenging for you. Your doctor is an excellent source of general advice and the fact that he knows you and your medical history puts him in a very advantageous position to advise you! Use the following article to learn how to make the most of your relationship with your physician when you're trying to lose weight.

1. What should I not be eating? Ask your doctor straight out for a list of foods you need to avoid. If it's anything with sodium, stop buying chips! If he tells you to cut back on foods that raise your bad cholesterol, look on the labels before placing anything in your shopping cart. Different ingredients can have a big impact on your weight, even if you've cut out calories so ask your doctor for an in-depth answer and take notes!

2. What are the best exercises for me? Most people with a weight problem need to start out slowly with exercise and work their way up; what about you? Does your doctor think aerobics is the best way for you to go? Did he tell you weight lifting may not be suitable for your joint health? Maybe he has specific recommendations for you like swimming, jogging or yoga. Listen up and follow his advice.

3. How many calories should I be consuming? This is a confusing point for most people and with good reasons: conflicting information! Get the number straight from the horse's mouth, so to speak, and live by this number. Of course, minor variation is acceptable, but overall, you want to aim for that specific number of calories every single day.

4. What exactly is my ideal weight? Again, with conflicting information, this exact number can be difficult to ascertain, however; your doctor knows best! Your actual optimum weight may vary due to specific circumstances which he can factor in. Don't listen to what a fashion magazine tells you or the woman in the office cubicle next to yours; heed your doctor's words of wisdom.

5. How much weight can I safely lose each week? Most people lose more in the first few weeks of a weight management program, then gradually drop off in the amount they lose thereafter. Ask your doctor for specific numbers and how you can improve them with improved diet and more vigorous exercises as you go along. Stick with his numbers, no matter how tempting it may be to crash-diet or skip meals; stay within the healthy guidelines.

6. What else is influencing my weight, such as hormones or medicine? Any number of medical conditions or stages in life can pack the pounds on faster and make it harder to lose them. Are you experiencing a lot of stress in your life? Not sleeping well or taking medications that contribute to weight gain? Perhaps you've had a baby in the past year or are approaching menopause. All of these things and have a significant impact on your weight loss efforts and your doctor can help with every one of them.

Working with your doctor will give you an enormous advantage in the battle against weight, so incorporate him in your plan and see how much faster you attain success!

weight loss
weight loss