Slimming down: Exploring today’s weight loss solutions

Slimming down: Exploring today’s weight loss solutions

If you want to lose weight, there is no shortage of weight loss solutions. From various diets and workout plans to medication and surgery—it seems like there are endless possibilities for shedding unwanted pounds. But anyone who has ever tried to lose weight knows that getting—and keeping—the pounds off isn’t all that easy. With so many weight loss options available, how do you choose one that works for you? One of the most important things to remember is that, regardless of which option you choose, to sustain long-term weight loss, a lifestyle change is a must.

The pros and cons of weight loss medications

Drugs that cause weight loss, like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, have been a hot topic in the news and across social media and for good reason: many people who are prescribed these medications have dropped up to 20% of their body weight. For someone who struggles with obesity, losing that much weight is significant.

However, it’s important to be aware of the possible side effects when using these weight loss medications. “The side effects can be taxing, especially as people first begin the medications: Fifty-three people dropped out of the trial because of side effects such as nausea, diarrhea and constipation,” said Dr. Melanie Jay, director of the N.Y.U. Langone Comprehensive Program on Obesity.

And although medication can be a valid and effective option for someone trying to lose weight, the weight loss isn’t necessarily permanent. According to a recent New York Times article, many patients who stop taking these medications regain weight. Taking the drugs is a commitment. Once you stop taking the medication, unless you change your habits, there’s a good chance that you’ll regain the weight you lost. Cost, access, and unknown long-term side effects are also factors to consider when deciding with your doctor if these drugs are right for you.

A longer term solution

While bariatric surgery isn’t receiving the same level of attention from the media as weight loss drugs are right now, it is a relatively low-risk option with high success rates. Bariatric surgery is effective because it helps limit your desire and your ability to eat large meals, and also, in some surgeries, it limits your absorption of sugar and fat, causing additional weight loss and reversal of other diseases such as diabetes.

But weight loss surgery is not a quick fix or a passing trend. In fact, before getting weight loss surgery, patients must pass a psychological evaluation and meet with a dietitian to ensure they’re mentally and physically ready for the permanent procedure.

If you decide to have weight loss surgery, you also must also commit to living a healthier lifestyle and making changes to your behavior. This includes sticking to a diet program, and starting a regular exercise routine (once you’re given the go-ahead by your doctor). You’ll also have frequent medical checkups to monitor your health in the first several months after weight loss surgery.

How Carrum Health Can Help

If your employer offers the Carrum Health bariatric benefit, contact us today. We work with top surgeons who specialize in weight loss surgeries and often, the surgery cost is fully covered.*

If weight loss surgery is right for you, you can rest easy knowing that the bariatric surgeons in Carrum Health’s network have more experience, advanced training, fewer complications, and outstanding patient review. Our network consists of bariatric surgery centers across the country including but not limited to:

• Allegheny Health Network
• The Bariatric Center of Kansas City
• Chicago Institute of Advanced Surgery
• Cleveland Clinic, Ohio Cleveland
• Cleveland Clinic, Weston Florida Cleveland
• Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula
• Novant Health, Charlotte
• Scripps

For more information, contact Carrum Health. We’ll walk you through the benefit, ensure you’re eligible and help you select and schedule a consultation with one of the top bariatric surgeons in the country, who can help you determine if weight loss surgery is best for you.

“The benefit was extraordinary… really unbelievable. From the initial process of getting approved, to the wonderful hospital that performed the procedure, every last detail was attended to.” – Andrea, Bariatric Surgery Patient

Find out if the Carrum Health weight loss surgery benefit is available to you. Check your eligibility.

The information contained on this article are for informational purposes only. No material is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

*Individuals enrolled in a high deductible plan must first meet their deductible.