Starting a medical weight loss program can feel like a big step toward better health.
If you’re exploring medical weight loss programs in Los Angeles, you’re not alone—many people face hurdles that make sticking to these plans tough.
This article dives into the most common challenges and offers simple, actionable advice to help you stay on track.
Why Medical Weight Loss Programs Are Unique?
Medical weight loss programs differ from regular diets because they’re guided by doctors and tailored to your health needs.
A 2020 study in The Journal of Obesity found that medically supervised programs lead to 5-10% greater weight loss than self-directed diets. Below, we’ll explore why these programs can be hard to follow.
Sticking to Dietary Changes
One of the biggest challenges is adjusting to new eating habits. Medical weight loss programs often require you to cut out certain foods or follow strict meal plans.
For example, you might need to eat more protein or avoid sugary snacks. This can feel overwhelming, especially if you love comfort foods.
A 2021 survey by the American Dietetic Association showed that 68% of participants struggled with food cravings while on structured diets.
To make this easier, try swapping favorite treats for healthier options. If you crave sweets, go for fruit or a small piece of dark chocolate. Planning meals ahead can also help you avoid impulsive choices.
Finding Motivation Over Time
Keeping your motivation high is another hurdle. At the start, you’re excited to see results, but after a few weeks, that energy can fade.
Life gets busy, and it’s easy to skip workouts or cheat on your diet. According to a 2022 study in Health Psychology, 45% of people abandon weight loss goals within three months due to low motivation.
To stay motivated, set small, realistic goals. For instance, aim to lose 1-2 pounds a week instead of focusing on a big number. Celebrate little wins, like fitting into a smaller size, to keep your spirits up.
Managing Time for Exercise
Exercise is a key part of most medical weight loss programs, but finding time to work out can be tough.
If you’re juggling work, family, or other responsibilities, fitting in a gym session might seem impossible.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, but only 23% of adults meet this goal, per a 2023 CDC report.
You don’t need a gym to stay active. Try walking during lunch breaks or doing a quick home workout. Even small bursts of activity, like 10-minute stretches, can add up and keep you on track.
| Challenge | Solution |
| Craving unhealthy foods | Swap for healthier alternatives |
| Low motivation | Set small, achievable goals |
| Lack of time for exercise | Incorporate short, daily activities |
Dealing with Plateaus
Hitting a weight loss plateau is frustrating. You’re following the plan, but the scale stops moving.
This happens because your body adjusts to fewer calories, slowing your metabolism. A 2019 study in Metabolism noted that plateaus affect 80% of weight loss participants after 6-12 months.
To break through, mix up your routine. Try a new workout, like swimming or yoga, or adjust your calorie intake with your doctor’s guidance. Small changes can jumpstart progress and keep you moving forward.
Emotional and Social Pressures
Food is often tied to emotions and social events, which can make sticking to a program hard. You might feel tempted at parties or stressed about saying no to family meals.
Emotional eating is a common issue—per a 2022 Journal of Behavioral Medicine study, 55% of people eat more when stressed.
To handle this, practice saying no politely or bring a healthy dish to share. If stress triggers overeating, try activities like journaling or meditation to manage your emotions.
Understanding Medical Restrictions
Some medical weight loss programs come with strict rules, like avoiding certain medications or following specific health protocols.
If you have conditions like diabetes or thyroid issues, these restrictions can feel limiting.
Misunderstanding these rules can lead to setbacks, as noted in a 2020 American Journal of Clinical Nutrition report, where 30% of participants struggled with program compliance due to unclear guidelines.
Ask your doctor to explain any restrictions clearly. If you’re unsure about a rule, don’t guess—reach out for clarification to stay safe and on track.
Staying Consistent Long-Term
Consistency is the key to success, but it’s also the hardest part. Life changes, like a new job or family events, can disrupt your routine.
Building lasting habits takes time—research from Behavioral Science in 2021 suggests it takes 66 days on average to form a new habit.
To stay consistent, tie your goals to daily routines. For example, drink a glass of water first thing in the morning or prep meals every Sunday.
These small habits can make weight loss programs easier to follow over time.
Q&A
Why is it so hard to stick to a medical weight loss diet?
Answer: Medical diets are often stricter than regular ones, requiring changes like more protein and less sugar. This shift can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re used to comfort foods. To ease the transition, swap unhealthy snacks for healthier alternatives, plan meals ahead, and ask your provider for meal prep tips.
How do I stay motivated after the first few weeks?
Answer: Motivation naturally dips over time. Instead of focusing only on big goals, celebrate small wins like fitting into old clothes or having more energy. Setting short-term, achievable goals and tracking them in a journal or app helps keep motivation strong.
I don’t have time to go to the gym. Can I still lose weight?
Answer: Yes! Even short bursts of daily activity make a difference. Walking on breaks, doing home workouts, or stretching for 10 minutes each day can help meet your goals without a gym membership.
What should I do if I hit a weight loss plateau?
Answer: Plateaus are common—your body adjusts to your new routine over time. To break through, try changing your exercise routine or adjusting your calorie intake with your doctor’s guidance. Small changes can restart your progress.
How do I avoid emotional or social eating?
Answer: Food and emotions are deeply connected. Try stress management techniques like journaling or meditation. In social settings, bring a healthy dish or politely decline indulgent options. Planning ahead helps you stay in control.
The medical restrictions seem too strict. What should I do?
Answer: Don’t guess—talk to your doctor. Medical rules are there for your safety, especially if you have health conditions like diabetes or thyroid issues. Ask for clear explanations and alternatives if something feels too difficult.
How can I be more consistent in the long run?
Answer: Consistency is about building habits. Link new habits to daily routines—like drinking water after waking up or prepping meals every Sunday. Research shows it takes around 66 days to form a habit, so be patient and persistent.
Why am I still hungry on my plan?
Answer: Your body may be adjusting to fewer calories. Try high-fiber foods like vegetables and whole grains, and drink more water. These help you stay full longer without adding excess calories.
Is this type of program right for me?
Answer: If you’ve struggled with weight loss in the past or have health conditions tied to your weight, a medical weight loss program offers customized, science-based support. Start with a consultation to find out if it fits your needs.
