For years, esther Elings diligently pursued a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise, yet struggled to lose weight-a common frustration for many. As obesity rates continue to rise and conventional methods often fall short,more individuals are exploring medically supervised weight loss options.This article follows Elings’ experience with a program offering precisely that, detailing her journey with medication and lifestyle coaching, and highlighting a shift away from restrictive dieting toward a more sustainable approach to well-being. She lost 7.3 kilograms in the first four weeks and reports a significant advancement in her mental relationship with food.
For years, Esther Elings, 44, struggled with weight loss despite diligently following what she believed to be a healthy lifestyle. She ate a balanced diet, exercised regularly, and mirrored the habits of her husband – yet, he lost weight while she remained stuck. “I was so tired of always being overweight,” Elings explained. “I was doing everything right, and still, nothing happened.”
Increasingly, Elings encountered information about medically assisted weight loss. Initially hesitant – “I thought, losing weight with medication? That’s just not something you do,” she said – she reconsidered as she realized the impact her weight was having on her life. “There was 30 kilograms too much Esther, and something really needed to change.”
Medically Supervised Approach
Elings decided to research her options and enrolled in Goodweigh, a program offering medically supervised weight loss with a team of Dutch doctors and coaches. The comprehensive support was a key factor in her decision. “The fact that you receive good guidance was decisive for me. You don’t just get medication handed to you. You first have an intake conversation with Goodweigh, and you undergo a thorough screening. Only when you are medically approved do you receive the medication at home.”
The growing prevalence of obesity and related health conditions has led to increased interest in medical interventions for weight management, highlighting the need for safe and effective options.
Getting Started
Elings administers the medication once a week. It contains two substances that mimic the body’s natural hormones, GLP-1 and GIP. This combination promotes a feeling of fullness and slows down gastric emptying. “Four weeks later, I’ve lost 7.3 kilograms,” Elings reported. But the biggest change, she says, has been mental. “Before, I constantly had a voice in the back of my head asking: ‘How many calories are in this? How much exercise do I need to burn it off? How much protein have I had today? What can I still eat tonight?’ That voice is completely gone. It gives me so much peace.”
Curbing Cravings
Elings still experiences normal hunger, but the overwhelming cravings and urge to snack have disappeared. “I no longer take second helpings, I don’t think about food all day, and I simply forget about snacks. And if I’m at a birthday party, I can easily say no to something. The thought of a piece of cake even makes me feel nauseous.”
Ongoing Support
A Goodweigh program always includes lifestyle coaching. “I really appreciate that Goodweigh is available 24/7. That gives me a safe feeling. If I ever have questions, I can always call a doctor or other coach. I also chat with my lifestyle coach every week at a set time. That’s also a nice support.”
She concludes, “I’m very happy with where I am now, but you must remember that you’re dealing with a serious process. Some people get really sick from the medication at first. I didn’t experience that myself, but I would advise anyone against experimenting with medication on their own. If you’re planning to lose weight with medication, make sure you do so under good guidance.”
Follow Esther’s weight loss journey on her Instagram page @life_of_esther
Expert Perspective
Dr. Jessica Gremmer, a general practitioner working for Goodweigh, notes, “Many people have already tried everything before coming to Goodweigh, from various diets to guidance from personal trainers. At Goodweigh, we look beyond the number on the scale; even without a BMI over 25, there is significant health gain to be made. We emphasize the importance of a long-term approach and how lifestyle forms the basis for lasting results. It’s great to hear such positive feedback from participants who have lost a lot of weight and are once again full of positivity in life.”
This is a collaboration with Goodweigh.
