Understanding approaches to weight management 

Just like sleep, exercise and nutrition, maintaining a healthy weight is important for overall health and wellbeing. When we maintain a heathy weight, our risk of chronic disease may reduce over time – conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, some cancers and kidney disease may be less likely to affect us. 

With benefits like that – not to mention a potential for improved sleep and mental health – it’s no wonder that we look for ways to maintain a healthy weight. 

But conversations about weight management are always evolving, especially as new trends emerge and social media skews our perception of what works. That’s why it’s important to understand options that may be available for weight management (not just weight loss) and how to find strategies that could help promote good health in the long run. 

It’s important to remember that everybody is different and that's why this information is general in nature and has been provided for informational purposes only. It is not health advice and is not tailored to meet your individual needs. You should always consult a trusted health professional before making decisions about your health care. 

What factors can affect body weight and management?

Genetics, cultural background, some medicines and lifestyle factors can all affect body weight and our ability to manage it. In other words, weight management is complex. 

If you’re considering support for weight management, it can help to understand the different options available and how they may work together. For many people, long-term support involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medical care and ongoing guidance from health professionals. 

Lifestyle and behavioural support are key to long-term weight management 

Lifestyle and behavioural support are generally considered the foundation of long-term weight management. That’s because small changes and habits add up over time, whereas some weight management approaches – like fad diets – often don’t sustain long-term change. 

Some small lifestyle changes for weight management might include: 

• eating a healthy and balanced diet

• increasing physical activity 

• building sustainable habits around meals and movement. 

These changes don’t need to be made all at once. Small, achievable changes to diet and exercise may make a big difference over time. While quick fixes can be appealing, long-term support and consistent habits are more important for maintaining a healthy weight over time.  

Always speak to your GP before making any significant changes to your diet or starting a new exercise regime. 

Are you living with type 2 diabetes and needing exercise and nutrition support?

For eligible^{^} Medibank members living with type 2 diabetes, the Medibank Type 2 Diabetes Program can provide weight management support through health coaching, education and guidance designed to help members build sustainable lifestyle habits. Clinical and product eligibility criteria apply.  Find out more.

Weight management medication in Australia 

Prescription weight management medicines are increasingly discussed in Australia, however these medicines should only be used where your treating GP considers it is clinically appropriate and where they are used alongside lifestyle and behavioural changes. Getting regular exercise and eating a healthy and balanced diet are the foundation of any weight management plan. 

Prescription medicines are not suitable for everyone and can only be prescribed by an appropriate health professional.    

Some of these medications may help regulate appetite and blood sugar levels. Others may affect fat absorption or appetite signals in the brain.  

There may be serious side effects to taking these medications, so you should always ask your GP or pharmacist if you have any concerns. Common side effects of these medications can include nausea, diarrhoea and reflux. Other side effects may include insomnia, kidney stones and glaucoma. This is not a complete list of side effects.  

If you would like to understand more about whether prescription medicines may be suitable for you as a complementary approach to weight management, it’s important to speak with your GP who can consider your individual circumstances. Your GP is best placed to explain the potential benefits, risks, side effects and suitability of medicines for you. 

Weight loss surgery in Australia

Weight loss surgery (also known as bariatric surgery) includes a range of procedures that may involve changing the shape of the stomach or changing how the digestive system works. 

The most common types of bariatric surgery in Australia are gastric sleeve surgery and gastric bypass surgery, both of which may be performed using minimally invasive techniques, depending on the procedure and the person's circumstances. 

A specialist may consider whether weight loss surgery is appropriate for people living with obesity where other approaches may not have been effective, or where weight is significantly affecting overall health and quality of life.  

Like prescription medication, surgery is not a quick fix or standalone solution for weight management. Long-term success after bariatric surgery usually involves lifestyle changes, including following dietary advice, increasing physical activity and ongoing medical support. 

As with any surgery, there are also risks to consider, including infection, complications during surgery and vitamin deficiencies. Some people may also regain weight over time, which is why ongoing support and healthy lifestyle habits may offer the best chance at continued weight management. 

If you would like to learn more about bariatric surgery, speak with your GP or specialist about the potential benefits, risks and recovery process, and whether it may be suitable for your individual circumstances. 

Find the right support for you

Weight management is complex and deeply personal, and the right support can look different for everyone. Some people may focus on nutrition and movement changes, while others may explore medication or surgery as part of their care plan. In many cases, different approaches may be used together with support from healthcare professionals. 

Remember, lifestyle and behavioural support are generally considered the foundation of long-term weight management and are often the best place to start. Importantly, you should speak with a GP or other healthcare professional before making any significant changes and also to better understand your options, your health needs and the support that may be available and best suited to you.