Successful weight loss can be achieved through medical-based care
Ridgeview bariatric surgeon Jeffrey Baker, MD, has performed more than 3,000 bariatric surgical procedures over the course of his 26-year career, which has helped many individuals achieve significant weight loss and long-term health benefits. Dr. Baker acknowledges that surgery should be a last resort and it’s not the only option for successful weight loss. Sometimes, individuals simply don’t qualify for surgery, or it’s not covered by their insurance plan. With a desire to help all patients who seek support, Dr. Baker worked with Ridgeview clinicians to develop a non-surgical weight loss program in 2019.
A clinical team works with patients to provide comprehensive care
Ridgeview’s non-surgical weight loss program is a 12-month, provider-guided team approach for comprehensive care. The care team includes a provider, dietitian, pharmacist, exercise physiologist, and, as needed, an endocrinologist and psychologist. Eligible patients are those with a body mass index (BMI) over 27 with a qualifying medical condition such as diabetes, high cholesterol or hypertension or those with a BMI of 30 or greater. The team works with each patient to develop an individualized care plan to address diet, exercise, medication and lifestyle changes.
Clinicians address underlying factors which may impact success with weight loss
Ridgeview’s program begins with the team considering all factors that could impact a patient’s weight, such as health history, exercise limitations, current medications and review extensive bloodwork results to rule out any conditions that may be contributing to weight gain.
An exercise physiologist works with patients to develop an exercise plan factoring in any barriers, the patient’s lifestyle, and weight loss goals. While the food and exercise plans differ for everyone, a shared goal is simply to keep moving. “For individuals who are inactive, simply getting 6,000 steps a day increases their life expectancy and getting 7,000 steps a day decreases their risk of cardiovascular disease. There are significant health benefits at each level of increased steps,” explained Dr. Baker.
Dr. Baker also promotes the benefit of non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT). NEAT accounts for all the calories you can expend while not actively exercising. “Chewing gum, fidgeting, pacing while on a phone call – these activities are small opportunities to burn additional calories throughout the day, which have a big impact on the overall calories burned,” said Dr. Baker.
Weight loss is the starting point for many long-term health benefits
“From diet and exercise to nutrition and vitamins — patients are monitored closely, and each component is tailored to meet their needs and goals. We’ve had many people lose 50 or more pounds within 5 to 12 months,” said Dr. Baker. In addition to weight loss, patients in the program often see a decreased risk for prediabetes, hypertension, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, immobility, and many other conditions related to being overweight.
“The 12-month program is a year of change and commitment. There are different levels and layers to the program which help with an individual’s success. Patients must find something that fits within their lifestyle to be successful — they need to find enjoyment in the process,” said Dr. Baker.
Ridgeview's team is dedicated to weight loss and long-term weight management. If you could benefit from support in achieving your weight loss goals, visit our website to learn more about your options.
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