‘Do You Think I’m Fat, Doctor?’ Using Empathy to Help Patients Lose Weight

Weight and chronic illness have a complicated and multi-faceted relationship. Obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Obesity increases the risk of developing many chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, some cancers, and respiratory problems.
 
A person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease can rise due to an excessive amount of body weight, especially abdominal fat, which can also cause high blood pressure, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. Additionally, obesity can result in chronic inflammation, which plays a significant role in the emergence of several chronic illnesses, including some forms of cancer. Furthermore, being overweight puts additional strain on the joints, which can cause diseases such as osteoarthritis.

Based on specific needs and circumstances, medical weight loss doctors can employ a variety of techniques to motivate patients to lose weight. Doctors who specialize in medical weight loss often use the following strategies:

• Education – Medical weight loss doctors provide their patients with information on the advantages of losing weight and the health risks associated with being overweight. They also discuss the science of weight loss, including the importance of nutrition and exercise.

• Nutrition counseling – To help patients create a healthy diet plan, medical weight loss doctors offer nutrition counseling. They provide patients with advice on nutritious foods, supplements, and meal plans. Additionally, medical professionals teach patients how to make better decisions when dining out.

• Physical activity – Depending on the patient’s needs and fitness level, medical weight loss specialists will suggest tailored exercises. They also assist patients in overcoming obstacles to exercise, such as lack of access to a gym.

• Medication – Medical weight loss doctors often prescribe medications to their patients to support weight loss. These medications may suppress appetite, speed up metabolism, or prevent fat absorption.

• Goal setting – Medical weight loss doctors help patients set reasonable weight loss goals. Setting goals assists patients in maintaining motivation and monitoring their progress.

Yes, self-compassion is essential for weight management. Self-compassionate people are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors, such as healthy eating and physical activity. Self-compassion means treating oneself with understanding and kindness. It is crucial for people who struggle with weight management as they may feel ashamed or like a failure if they don’t achieve their weight loss objectives.

By developing self-compassion, individuals can learn to accept themselves and concentrate on changing for the better without getting discouraged or overwhelmed by setbacks. Self-compassion boosts motivation and increases success in achieving weight loss goals.

Through techniques such as mindfulness, self-reflection, and self-talk, self-compassion can be effectively practiced. People can develop a healthy relationship with their bodies and succeed in long-term weight management by learning to be kind to themselves.

Some of the ways medical weight loss doctors use empathy to motivate their patients include:

• Active listening – Medical weight loss doctors engage in active listening, which involves giving the patient their full attention. Doctors develop trust and rapport with patients by demonstrating that they are genuinely invested in hearing the patient’s perspective and understanding it.

• Identifying obstacles – Medical weight loss doctors work with patients to pinpoint the obstacles standing in the way of their weight loss goals. Doctors encourage patients to make changes by demonstrating empathy for their struggles. This helps patients feel heard and understood.

• Encouragement – As patients make strides towards their weight loss goals, medical weight loss specialists offer encouragement and supportive feedback. Medical professionals encourage patients to continue their weight loss journey by celebrating their efforts and progress.

By using empathy as a motivational tool, medical weight loss professionals build strong relationships with their patients. This allows patients to feel understood and supported in achieving long-term success in weight management.

You can lose weight at Golden State Medical Center with the assistance of sympathetic and courteous medical weight reduction professionals. Visit us at Golden State Medical Center for a proper guide. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2551 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Suite 108. San Ramon, CA 94583. We serve patients from San Ramon CA, Dublin CA, Blackhawk CA, Danville CA, Alamo CA, Diablo CA, Dougherty CA, Tassajara CA, Livermore CA, and Pleasanton CA.