For many, losing weight is a frustrating, moving target. You follow a diet plan and lose weight, but you gain it back as soon as you go off the diet. It's a discouraging cycle, often based on the latest diet fads, that leaves people feeling they have no options left.
At Sentara, we understand your struggle and are eager to help you reach your weight loss goals. Our knowledgeable dietitians will review how and what you currently eat to determine what changes you can make to lose weight in a healthy, sustainable way.
Those who need to lose a significant amount of weight and face other health conditions because of it may want to consider weight loss surgery. Our weight loss surgeons and staff have helped thousands of patients lose as much as 100 pounds and more. Often, our patients will go off medication for diabetes, high blood pressure or other conditions.
What type of foods will help with weight loss?
We will work with our patients to develop the best meal and snack plan. Hydrating with the right liquids is also important.
Here are some examples of healthy choices that assist with weight loss:
- Fruits
- Lean protein (lean meats, seafood, beans, soy, low-fat dairy, eggs, nuts and seeds)
- Legumes (Garbanzo beans, lentils, peas, kidney beans, black beans)
- Non-starchy vegetables (green beans, cucumber, broccoli, carrots, celery, peppers, salad greens, squash, sweet potatoes)
- Whole grain carbs (whole oats, whole wheat, quinoa, brown rice, whole grain bread and pasta)
Weight loss and overall health
The most effective weight loss occurs when you exercise and base your diet on healthy food. Our registered dietitians will talk to you about making lifestyle changes to create the best conditions for weight loss.
Even a modest weight loss of five to ten percent of your total body weight will produce health benefits, often improving blood pressure, blood cholesterol and blood sugar.
Those who lose a significant amount of weight will also put less strain on their joints and sleep better if they have sleep apnea. In addition, losing weight can help to increase fertility in women during their childbearing years.
And don't forget about the mental health benefits. Our patients tell us they feel proud of their efforts, less depressed and more confident. They can shop for clothes and sizes they never thought they'd get back to and can return to activities they enjoy.
Nutrition and medical weight loss surgery
Weight loss surgery requires a lifelong commitment to eating specific healthy foods in reduced portions, so your smaller stomach doesn't become overwhelmed and unable to digest properly.
To be considered a candidate for weight loss surgery, you will need to meet specific criteria. In addition, we will need to know that serious weight-loss attempts have had only short-term success.