Losing weight is a challenge. When you face the prospect of needing to drop pounds when you also suffer from a medical issue, the challenge can turn from difficult to seemingly insurmountable. Do not lose hope, though, because you can achieve your weight-loss goals despite any health problems. The key is finding a diet that works for you; an exercise program designed to circumvent any physical limitations you have; and the help and support from medical professionals, family and others central to your life.
Step 1
Make appointments with your doctors before you begin to diet and exercise. Ask questions regarding any dietary restrictions you may have with your particular medical condition. Also, obtain a list of referrals of other professionals who might be able to help you with your weight-loss efforts, such as a nutrition counselor. Casa Palmera, a private treatment center located in Del Mar, California, defines a nutrition counselor as a professional who assesses health needs in terms of diet and physical activity.
Step 2
Educate yourself regarding your medical condition. Learn as much as possible so you can empower yourself and know what to look out for when you begin to make lifestyle changes. Stay up to date on advances in the research about your medical issues to aid you in getting better as you improve yourself through diet and exercise.
Step 3
Design an exercise program for you that is able to be accomplished in light of your medical concerns. For example, if you have knee problems, you might plan to swim and engage in other physical exercise that does not involve putting pressure on your patellae. There are many exercises that can be performed while sitting and even lying down, which are often appropriate for many with health issues.
Step 4
Consider hiring a personal trainer experienced in working with individuals with medical conditions. This expert can help you obtain the results you desire while closely monitoring you so that you do not aggravate any health problems.
Step 5
Talk with a therapist about your weight issues. Determine if your medical problems have contributed to a weight gain and, if so, how you can cope with this issue and resolve it so you can begin losing weight and keep it off.
Step 6
Enlist the support of the loved ones in your life. Tell them exactly what you need to help you succeed in your weight-loss efforts. For example, ask your family not to bring you fattening treats to help you "feel better," and express to your friends your desire to do more physically active things when you are together.
Step 7
Meet new people and participate in new experiences. This will help distract you from overeating, will add excitement to your life and keep you motivated in your weight-loss efforts. Seek out those who share your struggles with medical issues so you can compare notes and empathize with one another. Be sure not to include eating out too much as you make new friends and try new things, as restaurant food portions are often too large and the offerings highly fattening.
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