Are you one of those people who have listed weight loss as one of their New Year’s resolutions? Have you been struggling to lose those extra pounds despite exercising, eating a balanced diet, and following all other self-care tips? If yes, then medical intervention may be the missing piece in your weight loss journey.
Medical interventions are medical treatments that can provide additional support for proper weight loss. These treatments focus on reducing the body’s fat stores while also helping to regulate hunger hormones.
In this article, we’ll discuss some of the common medical interventions available to help you lose weight. We will also talk about how these treatments work, their potential risks and benefits, who is a suitable candidate for them, and how to get started on your medical intervention journey.
Understanding Medical Interventions for Weight Loss
Medical interventions for weight loss are typically found in two forms: hormonal treatments and surgical procedures. However, hormonal treatments work by reducing hunger hormones and increasing metabolism. Surgical procedures involve the removal of a portion of the stomach or intestine to reduce the amount of food that can be consumed at once.
Hormonal Treatments
Hormonal treatments are used to reduce hunger hormones and boost metabolism. These treatments are often prescribed by healthcare providers in the form of pills or injections. Some of the most commonly used medications include:
- Orlistat (Xenical) – Reduces the amount of calories absorbed from food, leading to weight loss.
- Saxenda (liraglutide) – Increases metabolism and the feeling of fullness.
- Phentermine/topiramate (Qsymia) – A combination of two medicines that helps reduce appetite and increase metabolism.
Surgical Procedures
Surgical procedures are also used to promote weight loss, typically in cases where diet and exercise have failed to produce results. These procedures involve the removal of a portion of the stomach or intestine to reduce the amount of food that can be consumed at once. Commonly used procedures include:
- Gastric bypass surgery – A procedure in which a part of the small intestine is rerouted directly to the stomach, making it difficult for food to pass through and reducing the amount of calories absorbed from food.
- Gastric sleeve surgery – A procedure in which most of the stomach is removed, resulting in a smaller stomach and reduced appetite.
- Lap band surgery – A procedure in which a silicone band is placed around the top portion of the stomach to reduce its size, reducing hunger and aiding with weight loss.
Benefits & Risks Associated with Medical Interventions
Medical interventions can be an effective tool for weight loss, but there are also risks associated with them.
The benefits include reduced hunger and increased metabolic rate, which can result in rapid weight loss. Medical interventions can also be helpful for people who have a hard time losing weight with diet and exercise alone.
On the other hand, there are some risks involved as well. These treatments can be costly and may not always be covered by insurance policies. Additionally, hormonal treatments may cause side effects such as nausea, increased heart rate, and headaches. Surgical procedures may also have complications such as infection or internal bleeding.
Who is a Suitable Candidate for Medical Interventions?
Medical interventions are typically recommended for people who have been unable to lose weight with diet and exercise alone. People who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher and have at least one obesity-related condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, may be suitable candidates.
It is important to discuss your weight loss goals with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any medical intervention. Your doctor will be able to assess your situation and advise you on the best options for you.
Starting Your Weight Loss Journey
If you are interested in starting your medical intervention journey, the first step is to find a qualified healthcare professional. In Utah, medical interventions for weight loss are offered at various hospitals, clinics, and private practice facilities.
Once you have found a suitable healthcare provider, you will need to discuss your weight loss goals and have an assessment of your health. Your doctor may then recommend one or more medical interventions depending on your situation.
Finally, it is important to keep track of your progress throughout the process. And remain dedicated to improving your overall health. This includes exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and following any additional instructions from your doctor. With the right medical intervention and dedication to a healthy lifestyle, you can achieve your weight loss goals.
So, if you are looking for a medical solution to your weight loss goals, consider medical interventions as a potential option. By following the advice of an experienced healthcare professional and being committed to improving your health, you can successfully reach your target weight in no time!
