Setting Successful Weight Loss Goals This New Year: Expert Tips from Palm Beach Health Network Specialists
Jan 2, 2025PALM BEACH COUNTY, FL -January 2nd, 2025 – As we are officially in 2025, many individuals are focused on setting goals to achieve a healthier lifestyle, including weight loss. Palm Beach Health Network experts emphasize the importance of creating realistic, achievable goals.
Dr. Abraham Betancourt, a bariatric surgeon at Good Samaritan Medical Center; Dr. Erica Podolsky, a bariatric surgeon at Delray Medical Center; Elizabeth Mills, RDN, LDN, a bariatric dietitian and nutrition counselor at Good Samaritan Medical Center; and Sam Barone, RD, bariatric dietitian for the Surgical Weight Loss Program at Delray Medical Center, offer their insights to help individuals stay on track and achieve long-term success.
“One of the biggest mistakes people make when setting New Year’s weight loss goals is being overly ambitious without a clear plan,” says Dr. Betancourt. “It’s essential to set small, specific, and measurable goals. For instance, instead of saying ‘I want to lose weight,’ aim for something like, ‘I will lose one to two pounds per week.’ This approach ensures progress and prevents discouragement.”
Dr. Podolsky emphasizes the importance of mindset when embarking on a weight loss journey. “Rather than focusing solely on the scale, consider other markers of progress, like improved energy levels, better sleep, and enhanced mobility,” she says. “These changes often happen even before significant weight loss and can keep you motivated.”
Elizabeth Mills recommends starting with manageable dietary adjustments. “Instead of attempting a complete overhaul of your eating habits, pick one or two small changes to focus on, such as reducing portion sizes or eating more vegetables. Consistency in these small habits builds the foundation for lasting results,” she advises.
Sam Barone underscores the importance of support systems. “Having a strong support system can make all the difference,” Barone explains. “Share your goals with friends and family or consider joining a support group or working with a dietitian to keep you accountable.”
For those considering bariatric surgery, the experts agree it’s a valuable tool but requires commitment. “Bariatric surgery is a powerful option for eligible individuals struggling with significant weight challenges, but it’s not a quick fix,” explains Dr. Podolsky.
Dr. Betancourt emphasizes it is a tool to assist in creating a healthier lifestyle. “Bariatric surgery works best when paired with long-term commitments to nutrition, physical activity, and overall health management,” he explains.
If you’re looking to kick-start your weight loss journey in 2025, the specialists at Palm Beach Health Network are here to help. Whether you’re seeking guidance from a dietitian or exploring surgical options, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your health and wellness goals.
Two Palm Beach Health Network hospitals offer bariatric surgery: Delray Medical Center and Good Samaritan Medical Center. To learn more, click here.
Delray Medical Center’s bariatric surgery program, which is entering its 10th year, has earned the following distinctions: MBSAQIP national accreditation for Bariatric Excellence, Aetna Bariatric Institute of Quality, Blue Cross Blus Shield Bariatric Blue Distinction Center, United Healthcare Optum Bariatric Center of Excellence, and Cigna Bariatric Center of Excellence.
Good Samaritan Medical Center’s bariatric surgery program has been accredited as a Comprehensive Center by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP®), a joint Quality Program of the American College of Surgeons (ACS), Blue Cross Blus Shield Bariatric Blue Distinction Center, and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS).
