Center for Gynecology & Women's Health
Estimates are that as much as two-thirds of Americans are either overweight or truly obese. Some health experts consider this the number-one preventable risk factor for disease, disability, and lost productivity and
quality of life in our society.
Compound this with the fact that most Americans don't get adequate exercise and that they eat a diet too high in calories
and fat, and too low in fresh fruits and vegetables, and you have a formula for increased rates of heart disease, diabetes,
orthopedic conditions, and other chronic or major health conditions. Our staff can offer counseling and care for women about these factors and can provide tailored, individualized recommendations
on weight, diet, and exercise for each patient.
Obesity
Women are more likely to suffer from obesity than men, with about a third of women in this country considered to be obese. The economic impact of obesity in related healthcare costs alone is staggering. And, of course the effect on self-image, as well as general and overall health, wellness, and vitality, is immeasurable.
Our staff can help women determine if they are overweight or obese, based on norms related to age, height, and body type. We can help to put women who want and need to lose pounds on a path of correcting body weight and gaining a healthier lifestyle.
Obesity treatment can take many forms, including lifestyle changes, medical treatment, surgical treatment, commercial weight-loss programs,
and other types of care, including natural or alternative (complimentary) medicine. Our physicians or nurse practitioners can review these options with you and help you develop an approach that is most appropriate
for you. A weight loss regimen will often combine a number of forms of care.
Of course, the greatest challenge in weight loss, typically, is maintaining the new and improved weight after initial weight
loss. Normally, maintaining weight loss for years involves permanent changes in daily life and habits, or long-term interventions. Regular appointments with our staff will help you track and monitor your progress. Physicians and nurses at our center can help manage your overall plan in reaching and staying at your target weight, as they
simultaneously offer care for any related conditions.
Obesity also impacts women in another way: It affects and afflicts their partners or spouses, their children, and other members
of their family. Preventing obesity in the first place is the best way to combat it. We can counsel our patients on ways to help them and their loved ones avoid obesity.
Diet
Integral to efforts to prevent obesity and a host of other ills - and to maintain overall health and wellness - is sticking
to a healthful diet. Our staff can discuss this need with you and make recommendations for dietary changes, point you to sources for improved dietary
programs and ideas, or refer you to a nutritionist.
Exercise
And adequate level of physical activity is often the great missing ingredient in many people's efforts to lose weight, to gain a trimmer body shape, to feel stronger
and more energetic, and to counteract mental stress. Our staff can discuss your exercise regimen with you and make recommendations for improving it; for making it a more concerted
program; and for finding facilities, classes, and other opportunities to expand and maintain good levels of physical activity.
