Obesity is a complex, chronic, and progressive disease, and many individuals find it challenging to achieve sustainable weight loss through diet and exercise alone. Medical weight loss programs offer a structured and supported approach to weight management, often incorporating medical interventions, nutritional guidance, and behavioral support. This article explores the landscape of medical weight loss programs in Jonesboro, Arkansas, providing valuable information for potential patients.
Understanding Weight Loss Surgery
For some individuals, weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, can be a viable option. It's crucial for potential patients to be well-informed about the different surgical procedures available, their potential benefits, and associated risks. Factors such as medical history and weight loss goals play a significant role in determining the most suitable procedure.
The NEA Baptist Weight Loss Surgery Clinic emphasizes patient education. The journey at NEA Baptist begins with an informative seminar led by a metabolic and bariatric surgeon, such as Dr. Jones. These seminars cover essential information regarding insurance coverage, support groups, surgical details, and pre-operative dietary guidelines.
While it's impossible to predict the exact amount of weight loss, patients can generally expect to lose between 40% and 75% of their excess weight. Setting realistic goals, such as aiming for a weight within 10 to 40 pounds above their ideal weight, is often recommended.
The Importance of Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Weight loss surgery is not a quick fix but rather a catalyst for a significant lifestyle change. Dietary adjustments are crucial due to the changes made to the stomach during surgery. It is important to chew food slowly and thoroughly, avoid snacking, and plan meal times.
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A nutritious diet is fundamental to managing chronic conditions, achieving a healthy weight, and maintaining energy levels. Partnering with a registered dietitian can provide personalized advice tailored to individual goals. St. Bernards offers nutrition counseling where dietitians discuss medical history, lifestyle, and food preferences to create a customized dietary plan.
Arkansas Weight Loss Clinic: A Personalized Approach
Arkansas Weight Loss Clinic, with locations in Jonesboro and Paragould, offers a range of weight loss services, including non-surgical therapies and aesthetics treatments such as cellulite reduction, skin tightening, stretch mark removal, and body slimming.
The clinic emphasizes a personalized approach, recognizing that each individual has unique needs and challenges. Their team of professionals, including doctors, nutritionists, and fitness trainers, provides support throughout the weight loss journey. They offer comprehensive programs that address nutrition, fitness, behavior, and medical considerations, aiming for long-term success.
Arkansas Weight Loss Clinic distinguishes itself through:
- Proven Results: A track record of assisting clients in achieving their weight loss goals through evidence-based programs.
- Customized Treatment: Tailored strategies based on individual needs, preferences, and challenges.
- Expert Guidance: Support from experienced doctors, nutritionists, and fitness trainers.
- Comprehensive Programs: Holistic approach addressing overall health aspects.
Weight Loss Medication: A New Horizon
There is a new class of weight loss medications available, offering adults who are obese or overweight the ability to engage in a weight management program inclusive of a custom-blended medication. In a 68-week study, adults lost on average 35 lbs or 15% of their body weight. With continual use, one could see 30%! These medications are individually blended for each patient and work naturally with your body to help the pounds melt away!
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Bariatric Surgery at St. Bernards Medical Center
St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro offers bariatric surgery with a patient-centered approach, focusing on the entire weight loss journey. Their surgical counseling ensures patients are fully informed and supported. The experienced surgical team utilizes modern equipment and cutting-edge techniques to help patients achieve lasting weight loss. Surgical options include sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass, both performed using minimally invasive techniques.
- Sleeve Gastrectomy: Removes about 80% of the stomach, reducing hunger hormones.
- Gastric Bypass: Decreases hunger and reduces calorie absorption.
St. Bernards provides comprehensive support, including guidance on diet and lifestyle changes before and after surgery. Patients receive general anesthesia during the procedure and progress gradually from a liquid diet to soft foods to harder foods post-surgery. High-quality protein shakes and supplements are recommended. Long-term follow-up visits are scheduled to ensure continued success.
Obesity Medicine and Comprehensive Weight Loss Plans
Dr. McClurkan is Board Certified in Obesity Medicine. Not all weight loss shots or medications are safe, just like not all diets or weight loss plans are effective or stable long term, but after thorough research and analysis, we’ve found a product we trust and recommend. We know the ingredients, we’ve tested its impact-all within physician supervision by our very own Dr. Michael McClurkan-and we’ve added it as a tool within our comprehensive plans as needed for each unique case. You workout to get fit, but you eat to lose weight and maintain good health.
Considerations for Choosing a Program
When selecting a medical weight loss program, consider the following factors:
- Program Components: Does the program offer a comprehensive approach, including medical supervision, nutritional counseling, exercise guidance, and behavioral support?
- Personalization: Is the program tailored to your individual needs, preferences, and medical history?
- Credentials and Experience: Are the healthcare professionals involved qualified and experienced in weight management?
- Cost and Insurance Coverage: What is the total cost of the program, and does your insurance plan cover any portion of it?
- Long-Term Support: Does the program offer ongoing support and follow-up to help you maintain your weight loss?
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