Weight loss is a multidimensional challenge. Achieving desired and sustainable results often requires a combination of medical interventions and lifestyle modifications. According to Dr. Azeem Khan, Dr. Seyed Ali Kahlessi Hosseini, and Dr. Dayna Panchal of Forest Hills Gastroenterology, which serves New York City, Forest Hills, NY, and surrounding communities, one such joint approach involves the use of a gastric balloon in conjunction with significant lifestyle changes. Various studies confirm combining a gastric balloon with lifestyle modifications can produce the desired weight loss.

What Is a Gastric Balloon?

As a non-surgical, temporary weight loss device, a gastric balloon filled with saline is inserted in the stomach and can be in place for half a year. It reduces the stomach's capacity, providing a feeling of fullness. The balloon's primary goal is to help patients reduce the amount of food they eat, which ultimately modifies their long-term eating habits. 

Benefits of Combining a Gastric Balloon Along with Lifestyle Changes

Addressing both physical and behavioral aspects of weight loss helps to ensure you choose a more comprehensive approach.

• Improved Weight Loss — The gastric balloon jumpstarts weight loss by reducing food intake, while lifestyle modifications (e.g., a balanced diet, regular exercise, etc.) can help optimize and maintain weight loss.
• Modified Behaviors — A gastric balloon assists patients in eating less and chewing their food more thoroughly, creating healthier eating habits. Along with nutrition advice and behavioral therapy options, patients are educated about how to better manage their hunger with more nutritious food choices.
• Accountability/Motivation — The initial weight loss of the gastric balloon can be rapid and help motivate patients to adhere to lifestyle changes. Routine follow-up care provides for potential balloon adjustments, as well as ongoing support. Consistent support from healthcare providers, including nutritionists and therapists, ensures long-term success and improved overall health.

Post-Procedure Lifestyle Changes

• Dietary modifications are immediate and require small, frequent meals as this helps with reduced stomach size. In addition, gastric balloon candidates will find the need to consume nutrient-dense foods (i.e., high protein) to allow them to meet nutritional requirements without overconsuming calories.
• It is essential to add a regular fitness or exercise plan tailored to the client’s fitness level – 
• Strength training.
• Aerobic exercises.
• Flexibility options.
• Certain behavioral therapies are effective in creating stress-coping strategies that help emotional eating and address distorted body image perceptions. 

Contact a Leading New York City, Forest Hills, NY Gastroenterologist

Combining a gastric balloon option with lifestyle changes offers a powerful weight loss strategy. For more information, contact Dr. Kahn, Dr. Hosseini, Dr. Panchal, or a staff member of Forest Hills Gastroenterology at (718) 459-8460 or online.