Medical Weight Loss at New Life: A Q&A With Cydney Vanosdale, FNP-BC, CBN
Weight loss care does not always involve surgery. At New Life Center for Bariatric Surgery in Knoxville, TN, patients can also explore medication, nutrition guidance and exercise support as part of an individualized plan.
We spoke with New Life Nurse Practitioner, Cydney Vanosdale, FNP-BC, CBN, about the program and how she helps patients find an approach that fits their health and goals. Cydney is a certified bariatric nurse and nurse practitioner who has worked with bariatric patients for more than a decade.
What nonsurgical weight loss options are available at New Life?
Cydney: We primarily offer oral and injectable weight loss medications, along with guidance on nutrition and physical activity. Medication can be helpful, but we look at it as one part of a broader plan.
Do patients receive nutrition and exercise guidance?
Cydney: Yes. We provide dietary counseling and exercise information. We also have an exercise physiologist on staff who can help patients develop a more specific activity plan.
What kinds of weight loss medications do you prescribe?
Cydney: We consider a range of oral and injectable medications. The right choice depends on the patient’s medical history, current medications and individual needs. We review those factors before recommending or prescribing anything.
How do you tailor a treatment plan to each patient?
Cydney: We sit down together and talk through their medical history, weight history, medications and personal goals. That helps us determine whether medication is appropriate and, if so, which option may be the best fit. We also discuss nutrition and exercise so the plan supports their overall health.
Who might benefit from medical weight loss?
Cydney: We see patients in several different situations. Some are preparing for bariatric surgery and have been advised to lose weight beforehand. Others do not meet the criteria for surgery but would like help with weight loss. We also work with people who have already had bariatric surgery and want support after regaining weight or falling short of their goal.
Who may be a candidate for weight loss medication?
Cydney: It depends on the individual and the medication. In general, we consider factors such as body mass index (BMI) and weight related health conditions, including diabetes or sleep apnea. A medical evaluation helps us determine what is appropriate for each person.
(Commonly used prescribing criteria include a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with a weight related health condition. Eligibility for a specific medication can vary.)
Are there times when medication may not be appropriate?
Cydney: Yes. Weight loss medication is not right for everyone, and certain health conditions may rule out a particular medication. That is why we review a patient’s history and evaluate them before prescribing treatment.
Will someone regain weight if they stop taking medication?
Cydney: Weight regain is possible, particularly if they have not made changes they can maintain in daily life. Stopping medication can also bring back increased appetite or what some patients call “food noise.” We want patients to talk with us about their plan rather than making changes to medication on their own.
How important are healthy eating and exercise?
Cydney: They are extremely important. Medication is a tool, but your body still needs nourishing food and regular activity. Strength and resistance exercise can be especially helpful for maintaining muscle while losing weight.
What would you most like patients to know?
Cydney: I tell my patients that they are the captain of their ship. My role is to help guide and encourage them along the way. We are here to help, not to judge. Obesity is a chronic disease, and for some patients, medication is an appropriate tool to help manage it and work toward their goals.
Interested in nonsurgical weight loss? Contact New Life Center for Bariatric Surgery to schedule an evaluation and discuss your options.