Gastroenterology (GI)

Non-Surgical Weight Loss

Our non-surgical weight loss program consists of three components:

• Dietary and exercise counseling (appointment with dietitian only)
• Medications for weight loss (after initial evaluation and approval from dietitian)
• Meal replacements, as applicable

For those patients interested in non-surgical weight loss, the registered dietitian (RD) is the initial practitioner whom the patient will encounter. RDs are professionals with advanced degrees in human nutrition. During your first visit with the RD, a diet and exercise assessment will be performed. This assessment includes questions regarding:

• What typically is consumed and how often
• Factors that may influence your eating, such as stress, work, sleeping pattern and appetite
• Amount of time you spend doing brisk physical activity
• Your long-term goals
• Your expectations with participating in lifestyle modification

In preparation for your initial dietitian visit, it is recommended and appreciated if you keep a brief food and exercise diary for three to four days. It is best to have at least one weekend day and one weekday recorded. Click here for the Food Log (pdf) and Exercise Log (pdf).

At subsequent visits, we will assess progress, discuss obstacles to achieving goals, and make modifications as you progress in your journey.

As part of our program, the dietitians work closely with a bariatric physician. After the initial assessment, it is determined if additional medical follow-up is needed.

Reasons to refer to the doctor specializing in weight loss:

• Possible medical cause of weight gain or inability to lose weight
• Recommendations on treatment of co-morbidities (diseases related to weight, such as diabetes and hypertension)
• Evaluations for anti-obesity medications
• Evaluations for bariatric surgery

Note that all of these (except those referred directly for bariatric surgery) require assessment by the dietitian before proceeding to an appointment with a physician. All programs are followed by our physician nutrition specialist.

To make an appointment, please call our Nutrition and Wellness Center at 312.413.3631.