© All rights reserved Keith Crovatt

Why do so many people jump from one weight loss program to
another, year after year, with minimal results and more
money out of our wallets? You can not help seeing the ads.
The tabloids, the late night infomercials, the latest diet
program sweeping the offices. The list goes on and on.
Most of the time, the lack of preparation and planning are
the root cause to minimal results and failed dreams.

You may not know what to look for in a weight loss program
or what questions to ask. Help is here! This article will
guide you in talking to your doctor and the providers of
the seamingly endless weight loss programs available today.

As with any weight loss program, fitness exercise or
nutritional plan, see your health care provider before you
decide on a weight loss program.

When you visit your doctor, tell them about your concerns
with weight loss. Share your feelings about medical
conditions you have or medicines you are taking. Do not
forget the “herbal” remedies and vitamins or other over the
counter pills you take.

Write down your questions in advance. Take a notepad and
pen to capture key points of information. Bring a friend
or family member along for support if this will make you
more comfortable.

Make sure you understand what your doctor is
saying. No medical speak here. Ask for other sources of
information.

So, with your weight loss program in site, here are the
top 10 questions you MUST have answered:

1) Does this program address “mindset” and motivation
issues?
We are what we eat. How many times have you heard this
line. Our mind controls our every action. Positive
thoughts in and positive actions out. Negative thoughts
in and negative actions out. “My whole family has always
been fat, it is in our genes.” This self talk over time
will put extra weight in those jeans! Be aware though
that motivation and support are the KEY to a successful
program. Do not consider any program and run from any
program that does not address motivation and mindset.

2) What is my ideal weight goal and why?
Your height and bone structure help determine your
optimal weight. Many body fat (mass) tables are available
to assist you and your program leader in setting realistic
targets starting out. Remember, you did not get overweight
overnight so don’t try to lose it overnight either.

3) What goals will I set?
Do not start a plan without a specific set of
measureable goals written down. What will my benefits be
exactly by getting to X pounds in 1 year. Also, losing
more than 2-3 pounds per week can be very dangerous. Do
not believe the claims of massive weight loss in some
programs. Always the fine print will read “results are
not typical.” Need I say more.

4) How does nutrition and physical activity affect my goals?
How should I change my eating habits? What kinds of
physical activity can I do starting out? How much physical
activity do I need now and within the next year? Each of
these questions are vital in laying out a weight loss
program. Safe and effective weight-loss programs
should include:

* Healthy eating plans that reduce calories but do not
forbid specific foods or food groups.
* Tips to increase moderate-intensity physical activity.
* Tips on healthy behavior changes that also keep your
cultural needs in mind.
* Slow and steady weight loss. Depending on your
starting weight, experts recommend losing weight at a rate
of 1/2 to 2 lbs per week.
* Medical care if you are planning to lose weight by
following a special formula diet, such as a very low-
calorie diet.
* A plan to keep the weight off after you have lost it.

5) Should I treat my weight loss medically?
With some exceptions for overly obese people and others
under the direction of their doctors, a weight loss program
should start with proven techniques for losing weight.
This is why your doctor is critical in your decision making
process.

6) What are the components of the weight loss program?
* Does the program offer one-on-one counseling or
group classes?
* Do you have to follow a specific meal plan or keep
food records?
* Do you have to purchase special food, drugs, or
supplements?
* Does the program help you be more physically active,
follow a specific physical activity plan, or provide
exercise instruction?

7) What are the staff qualifications?
* Who supervises the program?
* What type of weight management training, experience,
education, and certifications are required of the staff?

8) Are risks associated with this program? If so, to what
degree and how will it affect me?
* Could the program hurt you?
* Could the recommended drugs or supplements harm your
health?
* Do participants talk with a doctor?
* Does a doctor run the program?
* Will the program’s doctors work with your personal
doctor if you have a medical condition such as high blood
presure or are taking prescribed drugs?

9) How much does the program cost? Ongoing fees? Does it
include everything I need?
* What is the total cost of the program?
* Are there other costs, such as weekly attendance
fees, food and supplement purchases, etc.?
* Are there fees for a follow-up program after you
lose weight?
* Are there other fees for medical tests?

10) What results do participants typically achieve?
* How much weight does an average participant lose and
how long does he or she keep the weight off?
* Does the program offer publications or materials
that describe what results participants typically have?

BONUS #11 question: (We saved the best for last)

11) What is the referral rate from others that finished the
program?
Most people NEVER ask this question. Most providers
may be caught off guard with the question. If any program
is successful in the long term, referrals are the best
indication the programs works. Otherwise, simply moving
large amounts of people through the program gives a sense
of success even if none exist.

To review, remember, you and your doctor are the key to
success. Motivation is powerful. Do you have children? A
spouse? Extended family? Picture them if you are not
around in your later years. Do it for them! Do it for
yourself! DO IT!
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Are you looking to get back in top physical shape without
the hype and lies? Keith Crovatt has assembled leading
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