Receiving an official diagnosis of obesity or overweight can be a turning point. Studies show that people who discuss weight directly with their doctor are 32% more likely to lose at least 5% of their body weight within a year. This kind of conversation can open doors to essential resources, like dietitians, and helps people gain the right tools to make meaningful changes. But a diagnosis is just the beginning of a long-term journey—one that can feel overwhelming if you’re unsure of the next steps. So, after getting that diagnosis, what’s next?
1. Building a Foundation with Enjoyable, Sustainable Exercise
Exercise is a powerful foundation for weight loss, but it’s about more than burning calories—it’s about improving overall well-being. A recent study on High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) for children with obesity showed that while HIIT didn’t significantly boost weight loss, it did bring about meaningful improvements in mental health and emotional well-being. Kids felt happier and more socially engaged within just a few months. However, the intense nature of HIIT led to a drop in physical health scores for some, suggesting that less intense, enjoyable exercise might be a better option for sustaining long-term motivation and health benefits.
For adults, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” workout; each type of exercise offers different benefits. Another recent study found that aerobic exercise (AE) and AE combined with resistance training are best for lowering inflammation markers, like leptin and CRP, which are often elevated in people with obesity. Interestingly, women showed even better responses to aerobic exercise when it came to reducing inflammation. This variety of benefits shows that finding a routine you genuinely enjoy can make a world of difference—not just in terms of weight but also in overall health.
2. Exploring Medication as Part of the Journey
Exercise and lifestyle changes are essential, but medications like GLP-1s can provide an extra boost by reducing hunger and curbing cravings. Dr. Hassan Kafri of Kafri Heart and Vascular Clinic emphasizes that GLP-1s are most effective when paired with healthy habits. However, compounded GLP-1s may pose risks, as custom formulations can lack the rigor of FDA-approved versions, leading to concerns about safety and dosage. At Enara Health, we focus on safe, structured access to weight management, collaborating with experts like Dr. Kafri to ensure carefully monitored treatments. GLP-1s, combined with lifestyle changes, can support sustainable health improvements.
3. Moving Towards Holistic Care for All: Insights from the Lifestyle Medicine Conference and the Obesity Bill of Rights
A sustainable approach to weight management is one that recognizes the person behind the journey. This holistic vision drove Enara Health’s recent presentations at the 2024 Lifestyle Medicine Conference. There, our team highlighted the value of a multifaceted approach. Raymond Chow, our Exercise Specialist, shared a case study showing that a team-focused, long-term approach led to weight loss, improved health metrics, and reduced reliance on medications over 4.5 years. Dr. Roopal Pujara Lalaji, our PsyD, presented findings on how early psychological support, like our “Ready for Change” webinar, helped patients lose more weight at six months, showing how powerful mental and emotional support can be.
The newly proposed Obesity Bill of Rights aims to make patient-centered care the norm. By advocating for increased insurance coverage, a stigma-free healthcare experience, and equal treatment for all, this Bill shares our commitment to making comprehensive care available for everyone. For Enara, this approach is at the heart of everything we do. Together, with a vision that promotes health beyond weight, we’re working to make sure that everyone has access to the support they need.
Conclusion: The Road to Lasting Change
True weight management is a journey with many paths. By combining movement, personalized medication options, and compassionate support, Enara Health is creating a space where people can reclaim not only their health but their confidence and joy. It’s not just about numbers on a scale; it’s about helping people feel their best and thrive.
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