Weight Management Q&A

Weight management is more than just a diet. It’s a different way of looking at your lifestyle that gives you long-term health and a stable weight. Experienced primary care physician Chinwe Okafor, MD, offers supportive, compassionate weight management services at Sugarland Primary Care Physicians in Sugarland, Texas. She can help you lose weight and significantly improve your health using proven weight management techniques. To find out how you can benefit from expert weight management services, call Sugarland Primary Care Physicians today or book an appointment online.

Why is weight management so important?

Carrying more weight than is healthy for your size is one of the most damaging things for your body. It can increase your risk of numerous health problems, including:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• High cholesterol
• Fatty liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Gallbladder disease
• Sight loss
• Infertility
• Arthritis
• Certain cancers

Skin problems like rashes and infections, and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, are more common in people struggling with their weight.

The consequences of obesity mean that managing your weight is vital. Dr. Okafor’s medical weight loss program can help you avoid these health problems.

How do I get started with weight management?

The first step to successful weight management is a comprehensive exam to assess your current health. This process is just like having a routine physical. Dr. Okafor checks your blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, and other key health indicators. She also weighs you and works out how much weight you may need to lose.

Blood tests can show whether your cholesterol or blood sugar levels are too high. These are common problems in people with weight challenges and can lead to cardiovascular disease and diabetes. A blood test also picks up any hormone imbalances that could be affecting your weight, like an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).

What does weight management involve?

Following your exam, Dr. Okafor prepares a weight loss program for you that helps you lose weight steadily and sustainably. Your personalized plan includes treatment for any underlying health problems and a regular schedule of checkups so Dr. Okafor can assess your progress, make adjustments where necessary, and monitor your health.

The key to healthy weight management is to alter your daily habits, so wellness becomes part of your routine. That includes cutting down on foods high in unhealthy fats and carbs and replacing them with fruit and vegetables, whole grains, and high-quality protein. Adjusting your portion sizes and avoiding unhealthy snacks are also important.

Dr. Okafor helps by giving you advice and information on meal planning, nutrition, and exercise. She offers behavioral therapy to help you change your attitude toward food and adopt healthier habits. Some patients might benefit from medication like appetite suppressants to help them through the early stages.

Whatever you need to manage your weight successfully, Dr. Okafor can help. Call Sugarland Primary Care Physicians today to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online.