Weight Loss Treatments


Losing weight can feel like climbing a mountain with no peak in sight. There are countless diets, pills, exercises, and treatments promising fast results, but what actually works? This post breaks down popular weight loss treatments in plain language — so you can make informed, healthy decisions for your body and lifestyle.

Why Weight Loss Matters

Weight loss isn’t just about looks. It’s about feeling healthy, strong, and energetic. Carrying too much body fat — especially around the belly — can increase the risk of:

Heart disease

Type 2 diabetes

Joint pain

Breathing issues

Fatty liver disease

Losing even 5–10% of your weight can improve your health in big ways.

Lifestyle Treatments: The Foundation

Before trying pills or medical treatments, healthy habits are key. These basic methods form the foundation for safe and lasting weight loss.

1. Diet Changes

Eat more whole foods: fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, and grains.

Avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and soda.

Reduce portion sizes and late-night eating.

Drink water before meals — it helps control hunger.

Tip: In Sri Lankan culture, incorporating healing foods like gotukola, kola kenda, and wood apple can support digestion and balance.

2. Exercise

Aim for 30 minutes of movement most days.

Walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing all count.

Strength training (lifting light weights or bodyweight exercises) helps build muscle, which burns fat faster.

Fun fact: Walking after dinner improves blood sugar and digestion!

3. Sleep & Stress

Poor sleep messes with hormones that control hunger.

Stress increases cortisol, a hormone that stores fat (especially around the waist).

Yoga, deep breathing, or spiritual practices can help you relax.

Medical & Supplement Treatments: What to Know

These options are often used when lifestyle changes alone aren't enough — especially for people with obesity or related health problems.

4. Prescription Weight Loss Pills

Doctors may prescribe medications like:

Orlistat – blocks fat absorption.

Liraglutide (Saxenda) – curbs appetite and slows digestion.

Phentermine – reduces hunger (used short-term).

These pills have side effects like nausea, diarrhea, or dizziness. They should only be used under medical supervision.

5. Non-Prescription Supplements

There are many over-the-counter products, but most don’t have strong science to back them up. Common ingredients include:

Green tea extract – may slightly boost metabolism.

Garcinia Cambogia – often marketed for appetite control.

Fiber supplements – help you feel full longer.

Warning: Some "fat burners" can be harmful or affect your heart.

Advanced Treatments: When More Help Is Needed

Some people benefit from more intensive options, especially when health is at risk.

6. Weight Loss Surgery

Also called bariatric surgery, this includes:

Gastric bypass – reduces stomach size and how much food is absorbed.

Sleeve gastrectomy – removes part of the stomach.

Gastric balloon – a temporary device placed to make you feel full.

Surgery leads to major weight loss, but also requires permanent diet and lifestyle changes.

Recovery is long, and it's usually recommended only when other treatments fail.

7. Injections & Medical Devices

Newer treatments include:

GLP-1 injections like Wegovy or Ozempic — mimic a natural hormone to reduce hunger and slow digestion.

Electrical stimulation devices — placed in the abdomen to change nerve signals related to hunger.

These methods are still being studied, but show promising results.

Think Sustainable, Not Fast

Weight loss is a journey, not a race. The best treatment is one that:

Improves your health

Fits your lifestyle

Is safe and proven

Start with small, steady changes. Track your progress, celebrate little wins, and be kind to yourself. It’s not just about losing fat — it’s about gaining wellness.

                                                             Eranga.Abeygunawardane@2025

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