How to Talk to Your Doctor about Weight Loss

Open Up
When you visit to your doctor to talk about your weight, don't be shy. Weight problems are very common and although you feel like "the lone ranger" at the moment, she has probably had this discussion many, many times before.

Make the First Move
If your doctor has never mentioned your weight, you may have to be the one to bring it up. My own physician admitted she was reticent to mention my weight, but once I brought it up she was extremely helpful and knowledgable. After I made it clear that it was a concern for me, it became a priority for her, too.

The First Thing You Should Ask ...
It may sound like a no-brainer, but the first thing you should do is ask your doctor if you really need to lose weight. Sometimes we think we're overweight when we're not, especially when it's so easy to experience body image issues as young women and teens.

Find Your Magic Number
Ask your doctor to help you figure out your BMI. Your Body Mass Index is a special formula that lets you know if you are considered overweight, obese, or morbidly obese.

If your doctor finds your BMI is too high, she will explain to you what category your "magic number" puts you in. Those who are overweight have the least weight to lose; those who are morbidly obese are at greater health risks than all others.

Make Realistic Goals
Once you've determined if your BMI is an issue, you will then need to discuss what a healthy weight range would be. Don't assume you need to lose a certain number until you've discussed this. You'd be amazed at the number of people I've known who said they needed to lose 20 or 30 pounds when they were only five to 10 pounds overweight.