Can Routine Screenings Help You Shed Pounds?

Losing weight can feel like an insurmountable challenge, especially when diets do not seem to stick and the numbers on the scale keep going up. While a better diet and more frequent exercise are pillars of an effective weight loss strategy, routine screenings should be a top priority as well. Annual exams can set the benchmark for progress, ensuring physicians and patients remain on the same page from the start.

What is an annual exam?

Some people wait until a problem is severe enough to seek medical care, but annual health screenings can provide extra peace of mind. An exam can look different depending on the physician and individual, but generally includes a review of patient medical history and vital signs like blood pressure and heart rate. From young to old, every stage of life has different healthcare needs, ranging from childhood vaccination to breast exams for women and other age- or gender-specific exams.

1. Find underlying health issues

If losing weight feels harder than necessary, hidden health issues might be at play. An annual checkup can include hormone testing to check if thyroid or insulin problems can be contributing to stubborn weight issues. Additionally, physicians may review medications that may be causing weight gain. Physicians are also trained to spot other risks such as high blood pressure or prediabetes, which can worsen the problem.

2. Track changes over time

Establishing a long-term relationship with a primary care physician ensures that changes, whether positive or negative, are tracked continuously to determine if the treatments are working or not. Skipping several annual exams limits the available information to determine if any changes are necessary. An annual exam can keep track of body fat, weight, and muscle, as well as other health markers that play a role in weight management.

3. Create a personalized plan

When underlying health issues are ruled out and a baseline is established, primary care providers can confidently set weight loss goals that are achievable in a safe manner. Depending on the age, body type, and fitness level of the patient, diet and exercise plans can be recommended, and any unsafe options are discouraged, such as extreme diets or overly strenuous activities.

Making the most of a visit

Since annual exams only happen once a year, patients are encouraged to come prepared with a list of questions or concerns related to weight and nutrition. The more information a physician has, the better the guidance can be based on individual factors, including eating habits, physical activity, and family medical history. Being honest and open can also give physicians better insight into what is really holding weight loss back.

Maintaining a healthy weight

Annual exams are more than a routine screening or a check mark on a to-do list. Yearly physicals and testing are the foundation of preventive care. Catching health issues early cannot only prevent people from gaining unnecessary weight but also reduce the risk of more serious problems down the road. A comprehensive weight loss plan includes having a physician as a supportive partner throughout the years.