Medical weight loss: When should you consider it?

By LARRY PRICE, Reid Health

You've eaten well. You exercise regularly. But you just can't seem to lose the extra pounds. Is it time to consider a medical weight loss plan?

This decision shouldn't be taken lightly, because physicians and most nutrition and dietary experts say diet and exercise are always the first method of choice for losing weight. However, some people have limitations with exercise - maybe because of a chronic condition or injury - and become discouraged when all their best efforts don't seem to pay off.

Steven Smith, M.D., family medicine physician with Reid Health Primary & Specialty Care -- Hagerstown, oversees a medical weight loss program for Reid Health. He offers the following considerations for when medical weight loss may be an appropriate option:

You've tried increased exercise and improved diet for at least six months with little or no success.

You have physical challenges or conditions that prevent or inhibit regular exercise - such as a joint injury that causes chronic pain with movement.

You take medication with weight gain side effects. Some medicines, including older antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs and tranquilizers can cause weight gain, says Dr. Smith.

You "yo-yo" with gains and losses, optimism and then discouragement, and don't meet your goals.

"Multiple studies have shown that a five to ten percent body weight loss markedly reduces the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease and stroke," Dr. Smith notes.

A weight loss program may include seeking help from a counselor to work through emotional issues. These can often contribute to a patient's overeating, such as turning to food when stressed or when food has become a regular source of comfort.

"Multiple studies have shown that a five to ten percent body weight loss markedly reduces the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease and stroke." -- Dr. Steven Smith

Medical weight loss plans involve physician supervision and are customized to the patient. It may include a short-term medication regimen that transitions to diet and exercise for maintenance; or in some cases, a medication regimen may be necessary as a long-term solution, Dr. Smith says. Medications used include stimulants or antidepressants such as Wellbutrin. Other options include appetite suppressants such as lorcaserin or fat absorption blockers. Always discuss such options with your physician before using medications.

The best way to determine the right approach is to analyze the "why" that a person is carrying too much weight, Dr. Smith says. "Is it too much appetite? Too little activity? Poor food choices or eating to alter the mood? Or it may be a combination of these factors."

To learn more about Reid Health's program administered by Dr. Smith, visit: Reid Health Medical Weight Loss Program.