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In our first meeting we will set the scene for your weight loss program. We review your health in detail and examine how your weight may be impacting your health. We do this through a detailed examination of your medical history and screen for common health problems. On your arrival you will need to complete a comprehensive health survey. (Arriving 10 minutes early for your appointment will allow time to fill in the four page survey and have your impedence test performed). The survey asks about your medical history and about any medications you may be taking. If you take a number of medications, or have a complex medical history, it may be a good idea to prepare in advance and bring in a written list. It is best to allow up to 50 minutes for your first visit. After you have completed this your weight, height and age will be recorded. You will be asked to remove any jewellery for the impedence test. We are very proud to offer cutting edge technology to help assess your weight. We record the conventional measurements of height and weight. These values allow us to calculate your body mass index or BMI. This value helps to tells us whether you may be overweight or in the normal weight range for your height.
In addition to this simple calculation we are also able to offer a much more sophisticated analysis of your weight. Body fat composition can be calculated using simple painless electrical conduction. This elegant test allows us to determine what percentage of your total body weight is fat. This test works much more effectively than simple BMI calculation, especially for people who are very tall, very short or who have a more muscular frame.
Bioelectrical Impedance
Body impedance is measured when a small, safe electrical signal is passed through the body, carried by water and fluids. Impedance is greatest in fat tissue, which contains only 10-20% water, while fat-free mass, which contains 70-75% water, allows the signal to pass much more easily. By using the impedance measurements along with a person's height and weight, and body type (gender, age, fitness level), it is possible to calculate the percentage of body fat, fat-free mass, hydration level, and other body composition values.
We combine both body fat composition and BMI to help set realistic goals for your weight loss.
It is likely that you will be sent for blood tests that can be collected a few days after the consultation. These tests complete the examination process and allow planning for your weight loss program. You will have these results discussed in detail at your next consultation.
The blood test should be collected in a fasting state. This requires you to fast (ie no food or drink except water) for at least 12 hours. Fasting is very important as it allows the most useful measurement of cholesterol and blood sugar.
Once your assessment is complete, the doctor can discuss options that may be suitable for your situation.
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