Choosing the weight-management plan that's right for you: Medication, diet & surgery considerations

When it comes to weight loss, the options may seem overwhelming. Diet changes. Medication. Possible surgery options. Or a combination of all the above, may work best.

“Diet, sleep, exercise and your environment are the fundamental pillars of weight loss and must all be addressed if you want long term success,” says Alanna Hannegraf, DO, who provides family medicine care at PeaceHealth in Eugene, Oregon.

Change in diet

Making changes to what you eat and drink each day is likely to be the first recommendation your doctor would make. Chances are that a change in diet will also be necessary for any of these options to be long lasting.

A nutritionist or registered dietitian can work with you to create a custom plan based on your body’s needs. For example, if you have diabetes, then they can make a meal plan that will help maintain your blood sugar levels while also eating healthier.

They can also help show you how to eat a balanced diet for heart health. A registered dietitian can put together a meal plan that will help you meet fiber goals, recommended sodium intake, sugar levels and more.

Talking with a registered dietitian or nutritionist may be covered by your insurance. Note: You may need a referral from your primary care provider.

Weight Loss for Life program

PeaceHealth offers a program called Weight Loss for Life which is a clinically proven plan to help lose weight fast and build long-term habits.

It’s a two-phase program that includes meal replacements, weekly classes, a mobile app and a registered dietitian who serves as your personal coach. In the second phase you’ll learn how to include more food options to maintain your weight goals and health for the long term.

Medication

Medications like Ozempic or Wegovy are a type of semaglutide which were originally created to treat type 2 diabetes. This substance acts like the natural hormones our bodies produce to tell our brains we have eaten enough and are full.

When combined with a proper diet and exercise, a semaglutide may help you lose weight. It works by slowing the movement of food through the stomach and intestines, which in turn helps you feel fuller longer and cause weight loss.

Surgical options

Bariatric surgery, sometimes known as a weight loss surgery, may be an option for you. It works by making your stomach smaller or changing how your small intestine absorbs food.

It could be good for you if you are between 18 and 74 years old and have:

• A body mass index (BMI), of 40 or more.
• A BMI of 35 or more with a weight-related health condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure or sleep apnea.
• Have not reached weight loss goals despite following an evidence-based weight loss plan.

Bariatric surgery can provide a higher amount of weight loss than weight-loss medications or changes in your diet.

You’ll also benefit from a care team that will help you learn new lifetime habits in how you eat, drink and exercise.

“Even with great tools like weight loss medication or weight loss surgery, the fundamentals are fundamental for a reason. For the best outcomes and the most personalized approach, consult a physician who is board certified in Obesity Medicine to help you lose weight and keep it off,” says Dr. Hannegraf.

Talking with your doctor about which option may work best for you is a great place to start. They can help explain the options further and help decide where to start.