Salisbury, N.C., Oct. 25, 2016 - When it comes to weight loss, hundreds of options on the market promise to help you lose weight and keep it off. The unfortunate truth is that most of them do not work. Or if they do work, the weight loss is temporary.
For those looking to make a serious change in their lifestyle, potential options are weight loss surgeries, including gastric sleeve and gastric bypass. But all surgeries come with risks. What about people who are ready for a lifestyle change but are not interested in surgery? Novant Health Bariatric Solutions Rowan has created the answer with its new nonsurgical medical weight loss program.
“Our physicians and dietitians have spent a great deal of time developing a healthy medical weight loss program where patients see results at the conclusion of six months,” said Patti Shoe, bariatric program manager and nurse practitioner at Bariatric Solutions Rowan. “But we ask a lot of our patients, and it’s important that they begin the program with the understanding that this is a lifestyle change, not a quick fix.”
Through regular consultations with physicians and dietitians as well as a 12-week specifically designed exercise program through the Salisbury YMCA, patients are monitored and coached to achieve their weight loss goals. Consultations with a psychologist are also available to help with eating disorders, anxiety, depressed and other eating-related issues.
A 59-year-old female patient, who wishes to remain anonymous, recently completed the six-month program and highly recommends it to anyone looking to get healthy and lose weight. “I went to the bariatric center to learn more about surgery, but my BMI of 39 was just shy of the insurance requirement of 40,” she says. “At 217 pounds, I had high cholesterol, arthritis in both knees, and a total knee replacement in one knee due to additional weight. They recommended trying the medical weight loss program instead of surgery and I’m so glad I did.”
Her advice to others facing the same weight loss struggle is to not give up – and don’t keep eating. “Go ahead and get started on the medical weight loss plan, and the great team at the bariatric center will help you get the weight off and change your life,” she said. “Surgery is not the only option.”
After six months, the patient’s BMI is down to 29, and she’s lost 45 pounds. She plans to lose 10 to 15 more pounds in the next few months.
All ages are invited to be a part of the weight loss program with a BMI above 30. However, patients are typically over the age of 18. Call 704-638-8631 to learn more and to take the first step in living a healthier life.
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