March is National Nutrition Month, and now is the perfect time to review weight loss programs that will help you achieve and maintain a healthy body weight. If you want to lose the extra weight the healthy way, talk to the experts at the Kona Metabolic and Bariatric Program, a partnership between Kona Community Hospital an Ali`i Health Center. They’ve developed a comprehensive weight management program to help support healthy lifestyle choices and weight loss efforts without compromising your health. Here are some of the key elements of their weight loss programs:

• Personalized Assessment: The process begins with a comprehensive physical exam and lab work to identify any health problems that may be contributing to weight gain. This evaluation also includes body composition testing and other tools to help track weight loss throughout the program.
• Meal Replacements: The Ali’i Health Center Medical Group Weight Management Program uses OPTIFAST® meal replacements to help patients meet their caloric needs with nutritious shakes, soups, and bars. The OPTIFAST program is clinically proven to help patients lose weight and make the transition to self-prepared meals as they reach their goals.
• Group Sessions: Working with a team of trained professionals in a group setting provides patients with support during the initial stages of the weight loss program. Since it can be challenging to break unhealthy habits and learn how to adhere to the dietary plan, many patients find group sessions to be a valuable part of their program.

The structured and supervised weight loss program available through Kona Community Hospital are designed to help patients achieve permanent results. Since March is National Nutrition Month, now is a great time to evaluate your health goals and explore weight loss programs that will support your long-term goals. Learn more about the program by visiting the Kona Community Hospital website for more information.