Obesity Treatment
LCH offers obesity treatment in Kennet Square, Oxford, and southern Chester County.
LCH's Obesity Treatment Program
Our knowledgeable and compassionate practitioners can help you understand and manage your obesity.
LCH recognizes that obesity is linked to many serious diseases and chronic conditions. We view obesity treatment as one of the best ways to help our patients achieve their best health.
Our Approach to Obesity Treatment
The LCH team of providers are dedicated to educating and supporting all of our patients about maintaining a healthy weight. Many chronic conditions can be prevented or healed when our patients focus on weight management.
Obesity treatment takes input from many different specialists. Our primary care doctors work with nutritionists, dietitians, counselors, and other doctors to create the right plan with each patient. Of course, the person we rely on most to participate in the weight management plan is the patient.
Everyone has individual needs and circumstances that will impact their success. Our team customizes everything to work best for each person based on what they are able and willing to do to achieve their healthy BMI.
Treatment Options and Support Services
Obesity treatment always starts with education, followed by a lifestyle plan. We meet patients exactly where they are and try to learn more about what changes they can make over time. Each patient has different motivations for weight management, so it will take everyone a different amount of time to reach a healthy weight range.
Lifestyle changes will always include diet changes, an exercise plan, exploration of other healthy habits, and strategies for success. Our team will help each person figure out what kind of support will keep them on track with their goals.
Weight loss medication and bariatric surgery are options for some patients. Our team will make recommendations and referrals to specialists based on those needs.
LCH is committed to supporting every patient in their health goals. We offer ongoing counseling, support groups, and other resources to make sure everyone can reach a healthy weight and live in great health.
Obesity treatment is offered through our Kennett Square and Oxford offices.
About Obesity
Obesity is a growing health problem that affects people of all ages, races, ethnicities, and income levels.
The basic definition of obesity is that a person has too much body fat. Everyone needs some body fat to supply energy and insulate organs, muscles, and bones. Both body fat and muscles absorb energy, called calories, from food. When muscles have taken in all the calories they need, they stop letting new calories in. Fat cells, on the other hand, are willing to take on every calorie that comes their way. So if excess calories are consumed, the extra calories go to fat.
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measurement of how much of a person’s body is made up of fat. Someone is obese if their BMI is over 30 (weight in kilograms divided by height in meters).
Obesity is related to many health problems. Having too much body fat gets in the way of proper organ function and blood flow, which leads to high blood pressure, poor circulation, heart problems, and kidney disease. The eating habits associated with obesity often lead to too much sugar in the blood, which causes Type 2 diabetes. Carrying so much extra weight is hard on the bones, leading to osteoarthritis. In a nutshell, excessive body fat prevents the body from working the way it should.
Call our offices at 610-444-7550 to schedule a screening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our team is happy to support you by answering your questions and listening to your concerns regarding obesity treatment. To schedule a Telehealth visit or in-person appointment, please call us at 610-444-7550.
What is morbid obesity?
Morbid obesity means a person is at least 100 pounds over a healthy weight or has a BMI higher than 40. Morbid obesity comes with a high risk of life threatening health problems.
How do you prevent obesity?
You can prevent obesity by eating a healthy diet and exercising. A healthy diet means eating protein, vegetables, whole grains, and fruit, while limiting packaged carbohydrates, sugar, and sugary drinks. Exercise means regular movement throughout the day so that you can burn any excess calories that your muscles don’t need. Participating in high impact exercise, like sports or aerobics, is a great way to prevent obesity.
What is childhood obesity?
A child whose BMI places them in the 95th percentile for their height and weight is considered obese.
How does obesity affect the body?
Obesity, or excess body fat, gets in the way of blood flow, organ function, blood sugar control, and bone/joint movement. This leads to cardiovascular problems, diabetes, arthritis, asthma, and other health problems.
What are the first steps in seeking obesity treatment at LCH?
The first step is to visit one of our health centers in West Grove, Kennett Square, or Oxford. Our team will help you identify the resources and next steps for starting your weight management plan.
How does LCH tailor obesity treatment to individual needs?
Every patient is treated with respect, confidentiality, and an individualized approach at LCH. We know that no two people are the same when it comes to managing a healthy weight, so we work with each person to develop the best plan for them.
What lifestyle changes are recommended for managing obesity?
Obesity treatment always involves a change to diet and exercise, but the most effective plan will look different for everyone. We will also include nutrition and exercise education to make sure each person understands the reason behind our recommended lifestyle changes.
Are there medication or surgical options available for obesity treatment?
Obesity medication and bariatric surgery are options for some people. Our clinicians will make recommendations and referrals based on individual needs.
Can obesity be effectively treated with diet and exercise alone?
For most people, diet and exercise are the most effective obesity treatments. The results take time, but with the right mindset, they last a lifetime.
What resources does LCH provide for ongoing support in weight management?
LCH provides ongoing support with counseling, support groups, exercise groups, and community resources that encourage individuals and families to maintain a healthy lifestyle.