What things should I track before consulting with my doctor about help with my weight?
I have had a mixed relationship with my body in terms of weight for several years. I also know that struggles with weight and obesity run in my family. I would like to talk with my doctor about my slowly increasing weight and healthy steps I can take to prevent being the next member of my family struggling with obesity. In preparation for a discussion with my doctor, what sorts of information would be useful to track and bring to my appointment?
Answers ( 1 )
A food diary is a terrific tool to utilize prior to thias kind of discussion- at your fingertips, you will have types of foods, times of cravings, amount of food, if you want, you can even figure out calories (I know there are apps for that, but for no money, you can google the food + nutritional values).
That will be a good first step.
You will also want to know a bit more about your family's medical history- easy to say, "Obese", but did most of them die from cancer? Heart problems? What ages? This all matters.
You should ask your doctor to run the usual suspects lab work: Cholesterol with splits, sugar and/or protein spills, definitely thyroid function. Right now, those labs will tell you whether or not your health is already impacted.
Your doctor is likely not going to give you much advice, but should provide you with a referral to see a nutrionist/dietician. Be careful to shy away from any dietary advice which tells you you cannot eat a whole category of foods- white foods, carbs, fat- you want to have a sensible approach which isn't dependent upon you feeling like you're being punished by food. Beware of the phrase, "But you'll get used to it". If you are normal, no, you won't.
If you have your heart set on keto or intermittent fasting, definitely see a nutrionist. Both of those approaches work well to shed weight, but they are also very strict and can be difficult to live with- make sure you know what you have to do before getting into it.
Food diary and labs, most important. After that, it's just about you, and food.
I know- that's the hard part.