Losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be a challenging journey. Fortunately, Staten Island residents have access to a variety of weight loss programs and medical experts who can provide the support and guidance needed to achieve their goals. This article explores the different options available, from medical and surgical interventions to lifestyle changes and personalized care.
Understanding the Role of Genetics and Lifestyle
Recent studies suggest that genetics can play a significant role in a person's susceptibility to obesity, potentially influencing 40 to 70% of the risk. Understanding family history can help individuals recognize their potential risks for obesity and related health issues. However, research indicates that genetic testing in adults is generally unnecessary, as the treatment approach remains consistent regardless of genetic predisposition.
While genetics can influence factors like metabolism and appetite, weight can be effectively managed with consistent treatment and lifestyle modifications. This includes adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and making behavioral changes to promote long-term weight management.
Medical Weight Loss Options in Staten Island
For individuals seeking medical assistance with weight loss, Staten Island offers several reputable programs and healthcare providers.
Richmond University Medical Center’s Bariatric and Metabolic Institute, conveniently located at 4434 Amboy Road and 1161 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, New York, serves residents throughout Staten Island and beyond. The institute provides a diverse range of surgical and medical services delivered by a team of highly trained and experienced surgeons and medical professionals.
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One notable physician in the area is Dr. Angel M. Godwin, who practices in Staten Island and has garnered positive feedback from patients. Patients have praised her for her dedication, supportive approach, and ability to create personalized weight loss plans. One patient, who started with Dr. Godwin in April 2024 at almost 200 lbs and is now 155 lbs, describes her as "extremely instrumental in finding ways to do what you need but in the best way possible," further noting, "She is all about her patients. She is about finding solutions but almost being safe and supportive."
Another patient who started with Dr. Godwin at 287 lbs, and is now down to 155 lbs, emphasizes the importance of combining medical guidance with personal effort, noting, "This is not easy as it sounds you have to put in the work as well, try eating healthy and drink lots of water, and exercise if you can which is a Plus." They also appreciate Dr. Godwin's attentive and informative approach, stating, "She takes her time with her patients, answer your questions and concern you may have, give you feed backs to any questions. She's very takes her time with her patients great provider."
Dr. Godwin's patients also commend her staff for their kindness, professionalism, and welcoming atmosphere. One patient shares, "Her staff is amazing. All the girls are so kind and they feel like family. Appointments are so easy to get. I have told all my friends and family about her. I am my happiest I’ve been with her on my team in this journey. I am eternally grateful. Her associates in the office are just as great as her. There isn’t anyone I wouldn’t see in her practice! Thank you ladies for being an instrumental part of my health and weight loss journey."
These testimonials highlight the importance of finding a healthcare provider who not only offers effective medical interventions but also provides personalized support and guidance throughout the weight loss journey. The positive experiences shared by Dr. Godwin's patients suggest that she embodies these qualities, making her a valuable resource for individuals seeking weight loss assistance in Staten Island.
Surgical Weight Loss Options
For individuals with severe obesity or obesity-related health complications, bariatric surgery may be a viable option. NYU Langone’s Weight Management Program is one of the most highly regarded of its kind. Their experts, who are among the most experienced in the field, believe that by offering medical and surgical weight loss options they can best meet the needs of their patients and is accredited by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP).
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NYU Langone surgeons have extensive training in minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic bariatric surgery techniques. These approaches allow for smaller incisions, less discomfort, and a quicker recovery than conventional open surgery. The surgeons are supported by a team of anesthesiologists, operating room staff, and nurses who are specially trained in caring for people who are living with obesity.
Surgical procedures for weight loss at NYU Langone include:
- Sleeve gastrectomy
- Gastric bypass
- Duodenal switch or single anastomosis duodenal-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S)
- Laparoscopic adjustable banding
- One-anastomosis gastric bypass (OABG), also known as mini gastric bypass
The benefits and risks of bariatric surgery vary considerably, depending on individual health and medical history, the specific procedure performed, and the experience of the surgical team. It is crucial to have the surgery performed by a highly experienced team, such as the one at NYU Langone, to ensure the best possible outcome. Weight loss surgery is performed at Tisch Hospital, NYU Langone Hospital-Brooklyn, NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island, and NYU Langone Hospital-Suffolk. Available procedures may vary by location, so it is recommended to check with the preferred program to learn which surgeries are offered and to participate in a free information session on these procedures.
NYU Langone offers weight management programs in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Long Island and Suffolk.
Benefits of Weight Loss
The advantages of losing weight extend far beyond the simply cosmetic. It can be lifesaving as well. Obesity is associated with a variety of health problems, including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol levels, breathing problems, gastroesophageal reflux disease, degenerative arthritis, skin infections, infertility in women, and certain forms of cancer.
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Lifestyle Changes and Mindset
Weight loss is not solely about medical interventions or surgical procedures; it also involves making significant lifestyle changes and adopting a positive mindset. As one of Dr. Godwin's patients noted, "It’s only been few months, but I’m more encouraged in this short amount of time than I have been in years. It’s not just about feeling hungry, it’s also about changing my mindset about eating. I’m having to remind myself that just because it’s lunch or dinner time does not mean I need to eat. Sometimes I don’t FEEL hungry."
This highlights the importance of mindful eating, which involves paying attention to hunger cues and eating only when truly hungry. It also emphasizes the need to break free from ingrained habits and emotional eating patterns.
Regular exercise is another crucial component of a successful weight loss journey. As one patient mentioned, "I really need to put in some exercise which I think would be better, which I'm working on." Physical activity not only helps burn calories but also improves overall health and well-being.