Finding Your Path to Sustainable Weight Management beyond the Diet Grind

For many in New York and the broader Northeastern US, the journey to a healthy weight can feel like waging a war on yourself. The adage of “just eat less and move more” is popular, but the reality is often far more complicated. Sometimes, a patient needs to consider one of the GLP-1 weight loss programs to understand what’s happening.

Nearly one in 3 adults, or about 30.7%, are overweight, the NIH shows, with about one in 11 adults (9.2%) suffering severe obesity. Luckily, there are more medical programs offering better care that moves beyond the idea of a quick fix or fad diets for adults and even children. But first, understanding that weight is a genuine health issue is an essential step toward finding a plan that actually works.

More than a Matter of Willpower

Obesity is a multifaceted condition resulting from a complex interplay of factors. “The simple energy balance is incorrect,” Fatima Cody Stanford, an instructor in medicine and pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, explains. “Genetics, environment, development, and behavior all play a role in a person’s likelihood of having obesity.”

In many ways, you can think of it as a chronic health condition similar to high blood pressure or diabetes. It needs structure and professional care, not blame. Many institutions emphasize a holistic approach, ensuring that treatment addresses the whole person through mindful eating and behavioral techniques. Many also include:

• Lifestyle and Behavior Focus: Foundational programs that offer medically-monitored plans that focus on personalized diet guidance, professional nutrition counseling, and helping you make changes that last.
• Medical Support: FDA-approved weight-loss medications can be a helpful tool if you qualify; however, they should be used under the guidance of a medical specialist.
• Surgical Solutions: Advanced bariatric surgeries can yield strong results through surgical procedures.

Choosing the Right Program

Look for programs that include:

• Top Credentials: Recognized accreditations, especially MBSAQIP (Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program), are essential, especially if you’re considering surgery.
• An Extensive Team: Good support can include obesity medicine doctors, registered dietitians, mental health counselors, and exercise specialists.
• Ongoing Support: Look for programs that offer committed follow-up care and won’t leave you on your own as soon as your weight goals are reached.
• Clear Communication: The program should clearly outline costs, eligibility, and what your insurance will cover.

Taking the Next Step

You will need to gather information about yourself, your current BMI, and any related health conditions. Then, reach out to local programs to get a better understanding of what they offer. Try to have focused questions ready, such as “What mix of non-surgical and surgical options do you offer?” or “What kind of behavioral support is included?” Be sure to ask about their long-term maintenance programs.

By tapping the many resources in the Northeast, you can find the right partner to help you achieve your long-term health goals.

FAQ

Is obesity considered a chronic condition?

Many major medical groups recognize obesity as a complex, chronic disease that is influenced by a host of different factors.

What’s the difference between non-surgical and medical weight loss?

Non-surgical weight loss will focus on diet, nutrition counseling, and behavioral changes. Medical weight loss typically encompasses these methods, but may also utilize certain FDA-approved medications for weight loss.

Who is eligible for weight loss surgery?

It usually depends on your BMI. A BMI of 40 or greater or a BMI of 35 or greater with weight-related health conditions will often put you in the eligibility category.

Will insurance cover things such as medical weight loss or weight loss surgery?

It depends on your insurance coverage.