Weight loss calls for a holistic approach, here’s why

Health benefits of weight loss

While it’s always a confidence boost seeing the kilos drop off, there’s more to weight loss than what we see on the scales. Losing weight with medical help can lead to health improvements including: A better night’s rest thanks to a reduction in sleep apnoea; Improved quality of life; Reversing pre-diabetes; Better blood pressure, waist circumference and cholesterol.

Simple tips and tweaks

Dr Bishay advises having fruit and vegetables with all or most meals of the day, “choosing lean protein to help keep the cravings away, and ensuring that you’re getting about a litre of calorie-free liquid (preferably water) for every 40kg of body weight to ensure dehydration isn’t driving eating,” he says.

While physical activity is not actually that important for weight loss, says Dr Bishay, it is another piece in the wellbeing puzzle.

“It is incredibly important for weight maintenance, mental and heart health, as well as getting a good night’s sleep.”

Connecting in a shame-free space

Accredited practising dietitian Amelia Bandera says she sees a sense of relief in patients at Juniper – some of whom have been trying yo-yo diets and fad diets their entire lives – as they finally find something that’s going to work for them in the long term.

“We do work with patients on quite an individual level to understand what their health concerns are and develop really personalised diet and exercise strategies that fit with their lifestyles, rather than telling them to do something that’s not going to work with their situation,” Bandera says.

“Generally, for most patients we’re recommending a holistic diet that includes a variety of food, ensuring they’re eating regular meals, focusing on variety from the five core food groups and not having that restrictive mindset that comes with a lot of fad diets.

“We know that having support from a dietitian in making those changes along the way is also really beneficial for long-term outcomes.”

The support of like-minded people is another key factor of the Weight Reset Program, with Juniper offering patients online groups to connect in an open and shame-free environment.

“The community is something that’s really positive for patients,” says Bandera.

“It’s a place where people can share tips and celebrations and really connect with people going through the same things and share the same health concerns. It creates a sense of emotional support that is really beneficial for some of our patients.

“The women in the community groups are so inspirational. It’s wonderful to see.”

You can start a 30-day trial of Juniper’s Weight Reset Program today at myjuniper.com