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July 29, 2024

Redefining Obesity Treatment with Medication and Lifestyle Changes

Author: Brandon Newman, CEO of Xevant

The epidemic of overweight and obesity continues to surge in the United States, posing significant health risks and increasing healthcare costs for employers and employees.

Achieving and maintaining weight loss is critical to improving health outcomes and lowering healthcare costs. While there are numerous approaches to achieving a healthy weight, the most effective and sustainable strategies often involve a combination of lifestyle modifications and medication.

The Importance of Lifestyle Changes in Weight Loss

Lifestyle changes play a crucial role in weight loss, offering sustainable solutions for long-term health. Unlike quick fixes, these changes address the root causes of obesity, promoting lasting results and reducing the risk of related health issues. Examples include:

  • Better Nutrition: Emphasizing whole foods, portion control, and balanced meals can promote satiety and reduce the likelihood of overeating.
  • Physical Activity: Incorporating regular physical activity is crucial for weight loss and maintenance.
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress can lead to emotional eating and weight gain. Practicing stress management techniques can reduce stress and improve well-being.
  • Sleep Hygiene: Poor sleep disrupts appetite-regulating hormones, increasing hunger. Establishing a regular sleep routine and creating a conducive sleep environment can improve sleep quality.

Consistency and commitment to a healthier lifestyle are key to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. However, this is often easier said than done. Some people also require medical intervention to achieve and maintain their goal weight.

The Rising Popularity of GLP-1s

In recent years, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, originally designed to manage diabetes, have gained popularity for their effectiveness in helping individuals lose significant amounts of weight. According to a recent poll, one in eight adults has taken a GLP-1. Among them, 38 percent say that they took the drugs solely to lose weight. And utilization is only going to grow.

These medications work by mimicking the natural hormone GLP-1, which plays a key role in regulating appetite and insulin secretion. By enhancing insulin secretion, slowing gastric emptying, and promoting a feeling of fullness, GLP-1 medications help reduce calorie intake and facilitate weight loss.

Roadblocks to Weight Loss Success

Achieving and maintaining weight loss can be a challenging journey for many individuals, often hindered by significant roadblocks. Two primary obstacles are the high cost of effective treatments, such as GLP-1 medications, and the lack of consistent support systems.

Cost

The list price for brand-name GLP-1 medications – such as Wegovy and Mounjaro – range from $900 to $1,400, making it unaffordable for most Americans. For many employers, this cost is unsustainable so they may choose to not cover GLP-1s for weight loss.

Lack of Support and Guidance

For many people, not having any support – whether from family and friends or medical professionals – makes it even more challenging to stay on track with medication and lifestyle changes. A recent poll found that a lack of support and difficulty breaking unhealthy habits were some key barriers to prioritizing health. More than two-thirds of respondents said they would be more successful in reaching their health goals if they had more support.

The financial burden of these treatments can make them inaccessible to many, while the absence of ongoing encouragement and resources can lead to setbacks and frustration. Addressing these barriers is crucial for fostering long-term success in weight management.

Medical Weight Loss Programs: Ongoing Support for Long-Term Success

A comprehensive medical weight loss program combines GLP-1 treatment with ongoing clinical care and support for sustainable weight loss. The ideal program offers:

  1. Expert Clinical Guidance: Healthcare providers play a pivotal role in supporting patients on their weight loss journeys. Regular follow-up appointments, monitoring progress, and adjusting treatment plans as needed can ensure that patients stay on track. Providers can also offer guidance on lifestyle modifications, provide referrals to specialists (such as dietitians and therapists), and address any concerns or barriers that may arise.
  2. Emotional and Social Support: Having a support system is crucial for anyone on a weight loss journey. Support from family, friends, and healthcare providers can provide motivation, encouragement, and accountability. Joining support groups or participating in group therapy sessions can also offer a sense of community and shared experience, making the journey less isolating.
  3. Nutritional Counseling: Working with a registered dietitian can help individuals develop a personalized meal plan that meets their nutritional needs and supports weight loss goals. Emphasizing whole foods, portion control, and balanced meals can promote satiety and reduce the likelihood of overeating.
  4. Convenience: Telehealth and mobile apps simplify weight loss by providing convenient, real-time access to healthcare professionals and personalized tracking tools. They enable users to manage their weight loss journey on their terms, seamlessly fitting into daily routines, offering ongoing support, and allowing for flexible adjustments to stay accountable and achieve sustainable results.

Transforming Obesity Treatment Options

Xevant is helping employers offer a sustainable medical weight loss solution that addresses both critical weight loss elements – medication and comprehensive care and support.

We’ve partnered with Ivím Health to create Ivím at Work. This first-of-its-kind program combines affordable GLP-1 drug therapies with the highest-quality care management to deliver better health outcomes while improving an employer’s bottom line.

Together, Xevant and Ivím Health are committed to helping more people reach their weight loss goals and live healthier lives.

Cost-effective, sustainable medical weight loss is possible. Learn how.

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Brandon Newman, CEO of Xevant

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Brandon Newman, CEO of Xevant

"Brandon has a dynamic, 25-year leadership career spearheading several businesses with emphasis on growth, revenue, and sales performance. He has run many high-growth environments, including start-ups, turnarounds, and $1B+ dollar businesses. As a serial entrepreneur, he has a proven record of founding new businesses and advancing them through growth and acquisition, merger, or roll-up including ScripPoint, Veridian, and AviaraMD. He is the driving force for vision, new market strategy, revenue growth, technology development, and partner alliances."

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