Weight Management
Dr. Sara Trigero is an internist practicing in Reno, NV. Dr. Trigero specializes in the medical treatment of adults. Internists can act as a primary physician or a consultant to a primary physician. They manage both common and rare diseases. Dr. Trigero provides comprehensive care and care coordination with other medical... more
When should you consider using a medication to help with weight? This depends on the person. Certain individuals experience complications from excess weight at different degrees of weight gain. Managing weight is something that we all have to work on lifelong. For some the degree of effort is fairly simple, and they can maintain weight without much help, but for some, their body is very resistant and protective of their weight and they will likely need help beyond diet and exercise to make a meaningful change. All treatments have risks and benefits, and coming off treatment likely means that your weight will increase again, so starting treatment for a few pounds is likely counterproductive. However, if you are feeling impacts to your health related to excess weight and are ready to commit to a therapy to help you achieve better health, talking to your doctor to find a personalized treatment plan can be a game changer. Working with a supportive provider to ensure that weight loss is done in a healthy manner and that you are taking steps to preserve lean muscle mass throughout your weight loss journey can help protect your vitality. If you are someone who may need to lose more that 20% of your body weight, surgical options may be more appropriate than medications. Still, clinically significant weight loss is considered to be greater than 5% to help improve metabolic outcomes from excess weight. All changes toward better health such as improved nutrition and exercise are helpful regardless of the scale. Always acknowledge any work that you do to improve your health versus focusing on the numbers alone, and find a trusted provider to ensure that you are getting the support you need and making thoughtful decisions about your health with regard to your weight.
