Weight Loss Options for New Year's Resolution

At the start of the new year, many people set out with a heartfelt resolution to achieve a healthier weight. This common aspiration often marks the beginning of a journey toward improved well-being. For those considering weight loss, both surgical and medical options present viable paths to success. By combining realistic goal setting with the expertise of medical professionals, you can create a tailored plan that aligns with your individual needs and lifestyle. In this blog, we speak to Hamilton Le, M.D., medical director of the INTEGRIS Health Weight Loss Center, to learn more. 

“Your journey to better health is a testament to your courage and commitment,” Le says. “Every small step counts. Choose water over soda, take a short walk or simply believing in yourself can help you manifest your goals. Progress is not about reaching perfection. It is more about developing a healthier version of yourself.” 

Surgical weight loss options

At a glance: Gastric bypass and vertical sleeve gastrectomy are effective surgical options for significant weight loss. Gastric bypass reduces calorie absorption by rerouting the intestines, while vertical sleeve gastrectomy decreases appetite by removing part of the stomach. 

Weight loss surgery is an option for people struggling with severe obesity, offering a pathway to significant and sustained weight loss when traditional methods have fallen short. 

• Surgical procedures such as gastric bypass and vertical sleeve gastrectomy have proven effective in not only helping patients achieve substantial weight loss but also in improving obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension and sleep apnea.
• For many, surgery serves as a life-changing intervention, allowing patients to overcome the barriers that have hindered weight loss success in the past. 

A good candidate for weight loss surgery typically meets specific medical and psychological criteria. 

• People with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or those with a BMI of 35 and above accompanied by obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension, may be considered.
• Candidates should have a history of unsuccessful weight loss attempts through diet and exercise.
• Psychological readiness is also crucial, as patients need to be prepared for the lifestyle changes required after surgery. 

Gastric bypass surgery

Gastric bypass involves creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach using surgical staples. 

• This pouch is then directly connected to a section of the small intestine, effectively bypassing a large portion of the stomach and upper part of the small intestine.
• This alteration reduces the stomach's capacity and limits the absorption of calories and nutrients.

The benefits of a gastric bypass include substantial weight loss and the improvement of obesity-related diseases.

• The procedure typically results in losing 60 to 80 percent of excess body weight within the first year.
• It also improves type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea and hyperlipidemia.

There are risks, as with any surgery, when undergoing this procedure. 

• Specific to this surgery, gastric bypass may cause nutritional deficiencies, dumping syndrome, rapid gastric emptying and, in rare cases, leaks at the surgical connections.

Long-term success of gastric bypass surgery hinges on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. 

• This includes adhering to a nutritious diet, engaging in regular physical activity and attending follow-up appointments to monitor health and nutritional status.
• Lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation may be necessary to prevent deficiencies due to reduced nutrient absorption.

Vertical sleeve gastrectomy

Vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) involves the removal of about 75 to 80 percent of the stomach, leaving a narrow, sleeve-shaped stomach. 

• This smaller stomach size restricts food intake and reduces the hormone ghrelin, which is responsible for hunger, to aid in appetite control.

The benefits of VSG include weight loss and improvement of obesity-related conditions.

• Patients typically lose 50 to 70 percent of their excess body weight within the first 12 to 18 months.
• It also improves conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension and sleep apnea.
• Unlike gastric bypass, VSG does not involve rerouting the intestines, which reduces the risk of nutrient malabsorption.

The risks include infection, bleeding and adverse reactions to anesthesia. 

• Specific to VSG, the risks are leakage at the staple line and acid reflux.
• VSG usually isn’t recommended for people with significant reflux symptoms.

Long-term success also depends on how well you adhere to a healthy lifestyle. 

• This includes following a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity and attending regular follow-up appointments to monitor health.
• People may need to take vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent deficiencies due to reduced food intake.

Medical weight loss options

What to know: Medical weight loss treatment options involve dietary changes, physical activity, behavioral therapy and sometimes medications. These methods encourage gradual weight loss and better metabolic health, reducing obesity-related risks. Personalizing a plan to fit individual health needs is essential for maximizing effectiveness and ensuring lasting success.

Medical weight loss treatment options cater toward people who want a healthier lifestyle without surgery.

• These approaches carry a significantly lower risk compared to surgical interventions, making them a safer choice for many.
• They provide flexibility, allowing individuals to tailor their weight loss plans to fit personal preferences and lifestyle, which can lead to gradual, sustainable weight loss.
• By focusing on dietary adjustments, physical activity and behavioral changes, people can experience improvements in overall health.

Ideal candidates for medical weight loss treatment include people with a lower BMI or who have specific health conditions that make surgery inadvisable.

• More conservative treatments are typically recommended for people with a BMI of 25 to 29.9, which is considered overweight, or for those with a BMI of 30 or higher, classified as obese or who prefer to avoid surgery.
• A strong commitment to making lifestyle changes is crucial, as you must be motivated and ready to adopt new habits for effective weight loss.
• Being able to follow a structured plan is essential, as it involves dietary adjustments, increased physical activity and possibly behavioral therapy or medications. 

Medical weight loss programs

Medical weight loss programs are comprehensive, physician-supervised plans designed to assist people in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. 

• These programs start with an assessment to understand your health, lifestyle and goals.
• This leads to a tailored diet plan that emphasizes balanced meals for effective weight loss.
• Exercise routines are customized to fit your fitness level and preferences, making physical activity a key strategy.
• Behavioral therapy is integral, helping you identify and change habits that contribute to weight gain, fostering a healthier approach to food and exercise.

Lifestyle and behavioral changes

Embracing lifestyle and behavioral changes involves dietary changes, increase in activity, practicing mindful eating, managing stress and prioritizing sleep.

• A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains helps reduce calorie intake and also ensures your body receives essential nutrients.
• Increasing physical activity to at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week helps burn calories and increase strength.
• Practicing mindful eating can help you develop a healthier relationship with food by paying attention to hunger cues and avoiding distractions while eating to prevent overeating.
• Managing stress with techniques such as yoga or meditation helps avoid emotional eating.
• Adequate sleep is key, as poor sleep can disrupt metabolism and increase appetite.

Medication management

Weight loss medications function in various ways, such as suppressing appetite, boosting metabolism or reducing fat absorption.

• Medications have the most success when paired with lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise.
• They support your efforts by addressing physiological barriers, helping you stay on track with your weight loss goals.

Tirzepatide (Zepbound) helps decrease appetite and slows the movement of food from the stomach into the small intestine.

• In conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, the medication can help with weight loss while addressing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol.
• Side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation and abdominal discomfort.

Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia) combines an appetite suppressant (phentermine) with an anticonvulsant (topiramate) to enhance satiety.

• The combination drug can produce significant weight loss and can also help with blood sugar control.
• Side effects include increased heart rate, insomnia, dry mouth, dizziness and potential mood changes.

Liraglutide (Saxenda) mimics the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite and food intake.

• Liraglutide helps with weight loss and improves blood sugar levels, especially for people with type 2 diabetes.
• Side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headache and a potential risk of thyroid tumors.

Semaglutide (Wegovy) works similarly to liraglutide by regulating appetite and calorie intake.

• The drug was originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes, but it has been repurposed for weight management.
• Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and constipation.

Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave) combines an opioid antagonist (naltrexone) and an antidepressant (bupropion) to influence hunger and reward centers in the brain.

• The medication supports weight loss and may boost mood and energy levels.
• Side effects include nausea, constipation, headache, dizziness and a risk of seizures.

Next steps: Start your health journey at INTEGRIS Health's Weight Loss Clinic, offering both medical and surgical solutions such as gastric bypass and vertical sleeve gastrectomy. Participate in free seminars, online or in-person and connect with our support groups. Visit our website or contact us to take the first step toward a healthier lifestyle.

“You are capable and deserving of the healthy life you desire,” Le says. “The INTEGRIS Health Weight Loss Clinic is here to support you in your journey.”

Start Your Weight Loss Journey

The experts at the INTEGRIS Health Weight Loss Center are here to help with both surgical and medical options. Talk to your primary care provider today to get started.

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