Preparing for an appointment

Talking to your doctor openly and honestly about your weight concerns is one of the best things you can do for your health. In some cases, you may be referred to an obesity specialist — if one is available in your area. You may also be referred to a behavioral counselor or dietitian.

What you can do

Being an active participant in your care is important. One way to do this is by preparing for your appointment. Think about your needs and goals for treatment. Also, write down a list of questions to ask. These questions may include:

• What eating or activity habits are likely contributing to my health concerns and weight gain?
• What can I do about the challenges I face in managing my weight?
• Do I have other health problems that are caused by obesity?
• Should I see a dietitian?
• Should I see a behavioral counselor with expertise in weight management?
• What are the treatment options for obesity and my other health problems?
• Is weight-loss intervention an option for me?

Be sure to let your doctor know about any medical conditions you have and about any medications, vitamins or supplements that you take.

What to expect from your doctor

During your appointment, your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions about your weight, eating, activity, mood and thoughts, and any symptoms you might have. You may be asked such questions as:

• How much did you weigh in high school?
• What life events may have been associated with weight gain?
• What and how much do you eat in a typical day?
• How much activity do you get in a typical day?
• During what periods of your life did you gain weight?
• What are the factors that you believe affect your weight?
• How is your daily life affected by your weight?
• What diets or treatments have you tried to lose weight?
• What are your weight-loss goals?
• Are you ready to make changes in your lifestyle to lose weight?
• What do you think might prevent you from losing weight?

What you can do in the meantime

If you have time before your scheduled appointment, you can help prepare for the appointment by keeping a diet diary for two weeks prior to the appointment and by recording how many steps you take in a day by using a step counter (pedometer).

You can also begin to make choices that will help you start to lose weight, including:

• Making healthy changes in your diet. Include more fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet. Begin to reduce portion sizes.
• Increasing your activity level. Try to get up and move around your home more frequently. Start gradually if you aren't in good shape or aren't used to exercising. Even a 10-minute daily walk can help. If you have any health conditions or are over a certain age — over 40 for men and over 50 for women — wait until you've talked to your doctor before you start a new exercise program.