We now tailor the degree of treatment to the degree of the problem. Clearly some persons wish to lose 10-15 pounds for cosmetic or athletic reasons. Such people are advised to undertake a nutritionally sound diet, with emphasis on high fiber, low fat, and adequate exercise. Patients with BMI of 30, who may have 40 or more pounds to lose usually cannot do it with diet or medications alone. The rare person with morbid obesity, who has failed all other attempts, and who has life-threatening problems such as sleep apnea, may require surgery which restricts or bypasses the stomach.
Weight management is a process, rather than a single medical intervention.
The important role of the physician, but even more important role of educators who teach the information which provides the tools needed for long-term management of weight problems should not be underestimated. The group support which patients obtain from others in the program is found, by most, to be quite helpful. The Wellness Program pays attention to the special needs of the patients in the program. Many patients have gained their weight slowly, over a period of many years. Others, however, may have a weight problem related to depression, or related to a compulsive eating disorder, PMS, medical treatments, etc.