If you are overweight and at risk for developing diabetes, or have prediabetes or diabetes, reaching a healthy weight and following an active lifestyle are the best things you can do for your health. Studies show that losing even 5 percent of your weight helps prevent or delay diabetes in people at risk. For those with diabetes, weight loss can help manage blood glucose (blood sugar) and reduce the risk of other health problems.
Programs with Proven Success
In the Sutter Health network, we offer a variety of weight management programs, including diabetes prevention programs based on the Group Lifestyle Balance Program®, developed by the University of Pittsburgh in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
All of our weight loss programs provide group and individual support as you learn new skills and build new habits around eating and exercise.
Programs may include:
- Meal replacements products
- Different diet plan options
- Medical monitoring
- Weekly classes
- Private appointments with behavior educators
- Weekly goal-setting for permanent behavior change
- Support and ideas for physical activity and exercise
- Training to break old patterns and develop new, rewarding habits
Some health insurance providers and employee benefit plans cover all or part of the costs of a weight loss program. Check with your employer and health insurance provider to find out about coverage.
Weight Loss Surgery
If you have type 2 diabetes and are overweight or obese, bariatric (weight loss) surgery may be an effective treatment option. A growing body of evidence shows that surgery can substantially improve diabetes and other obesity-related conditions.
But bariatric surgery is not right for everyone with type 2 diabetes. It’s important to talk to your doctor about the risk and possible complications. If you and your doctor feel you may be a candidate, Sutter care centers have comprehensive bariatric surgery programs conveniently located throughout Northern California. Learn more about bariatric surgery in the Sutter Health network.