Obesity Medicine

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Obesity Medicine with Valley Health Physicians

Obesity is one of the most prevalent, yet dangerous diseases in America. According to the Center for Disease Control, obesity prevalence in the United States is at an extreme 42.4%.

Furthermore, from 2020 to 2021, obesity rates reached or passed 35% in 16 states.

People who have obesity are at an increased risk for some of the leading causes of preventable death in America. Dangerous conditions associated with obesity are coronary heart disease and stroke. People with obesity also have an increased risk for other serious health conditions, including:

  • High blood pressure
  • Sleep apnea
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Gallbladder disease
  • High LDL cholesterol
  • Low HDL cholesterol
  • High levels of triglycerides
  • Osteoarthritis

Obesity medicine clinicians with Valley Health in Las Vegas are here to help you on your journey to a healthier life.

For many people, at-home diets and exercise are not enough to spur dramatic weight loss. Our obesity specialists treat obesity as a disease and take an evidence-based, medical weight loss approach.

Your obesity doctor will help you come up with an individualized obesity treatment plan that fits your life. Certain uncontrollable factors can influence obesity including genetic predisposition and certain medical conditions. Therefore, doctors who specialize in obesity take a comprehensive approach, taking into consideration your individualized health background and needs.

Obesity medicine doctors can help you reach a healthy weight by creating a treatment plan that includes:

  • Nutrition and healthy eating
  • Physical activity counseling
  • Behavior therapy
  • Medication

While results vary, patients may lose 50 pounds or more in 18 – 24 weeks.

Nutrition and Healthy Eating

Almost all bariatric doctors will recommend starting with nutrition. In addition to teaching you how to count calories, your doctor will provide education on the nutrients you need in your diet. Decreasing the intake of foods with high sugar and fat contents is a great place to start. Your doctor can help you find replacement foods that fill your cravings and nourish you at the same time.

Talk to your doctor today about pre-packaged meal plans to jump-start your weight loss. These initial plans are a great tool to help people form healthy eating habits. As you get accustomed to your new diet, your doctor can help you come up with homemade weekly meal plans. These plans can help you maintain your weight loss long-term.

Physical Activity Counseling

While diet is a great start, regular physical movement is key to successful weight loss. Obesity medicine physicians can help patients incorporate physical activity into their daily lives.

For those who are new to exercising, physical activity plans can start simple. Your doctor may recommend tips like taking the stairs at work or getting up every hour to stretch. These strategies help patients incorporate physical activity into their daily lives.

Our team also caters to those who are looking for a more intensive exercise routine. Your doctor can help you come up with a plan to challenge you and burn calories fast.

Behavioral Therapy

Losing weight can be extremely daunting, particularly for people with obesity. Fortunately, behavioral health obesity medicine specialists can help support you in your journey. Our program offers group or individual counseling, as well as other support options.

Medications

If diet, behavior modification and increased physical activity do not produce sufficient results, patients may be considered for weight-loss medications.

Looking for more information about losing weight? Contact one of our physicians today to schedule an appointment.