A new approach to weight loss and metabolic health puts personalized care and long-term results first

ORLANDO, Fla., Jan. 28, 2026 — For millions of people living with obesity, diabetes or metabolic conditions, weight loss care can feel fragmented, confusing or short-lived. AdventHealth is addressing that gap with a new, tailored approach that brings medical expertise, lifestyle support and personalized guidance together in one place — helping people pursue healthier weight and metabolic health in a way that’s sustainable and supportive.

This new approach helps people find the care that’s right for them, no matter how they begin their journey with the care team. Instead of treatment being determined by the first type of provider someone sees, this model focuses on listening first and guiding each person to the options that best fit their needs – whether that includes medical support, surgery, lifestyle changes or a combination of approaches – to support lasting health and well-being.

At the center of this approach is the Health Optimization Center, a dedicated medical practice designed to guide individuals through modern weight management and metabolic health care, including lifestyle-based interventions, medical management and, when appropriate, advanced therapies like bariatric surgery. The center offers coordinated, whole-person support that goes beyond prescriptions alone, helping patients understand their options and build habits that last.

The Health Optimization Center is a key part of AdventHealth’s new Metabolic Health Institute, created to transform care for people affected by obesity, diabetes and metabolic disease as well as provide access to care for prevention and early intervention of metabolic disease.

Only 36% of Floridians are currently at a healthy weight, and nearly 60% are projected to have obesity by 2030 — underscoring the need for a more effective, patient-centered model of care. In Florida today, more than 2 million adults — roughly one in nine — already live with diagnosed diabetes, a majority of which is type 2, placing further strain on individuals, families and the health care system.

"Weight loss and metabolic health are not one-size-fits-all,” said Dr. Damon Tanton, executive medical director of the Metabolic Health Institute. “Patients deserve care that goes beyond fads and quick fixes and truly considers the whole person — their physiology, daily habits, mental well-being and long-term goals. At the Health Optimization Centers, we integrate today’s most effective weight loss and metabolic medications with tailored nutrition, compassionate behavioral health and personalized lifestyle support to help patients achieve meaningful, lasting change."

Unlike traditional approaches that focus on a single intervention, the Health Optimization Center connects patients with a multidisciplinary team that may include physicians, nurse navigators, dietitians, behavioral health specialists and fitness experts. Together, they create personalized care plans that can include medical weight management, diabetes care, nutrition guidance, physical activity, stress management and, when appropriate, surgical options.

Virtual visits, coaching and education are also available through the AdventHealth app, making it easier for patients to access care, stay engaged and receive support wherever they are.

“The launch of the Metabolic Health Institute reflects our commitment to meet people where they are and care for what matters most to them,” said Margaret White, vice president for the Metabolic Health Institute. “By bringing these services together under one institute, we are making it easier for individuals and families to access coordinated, compassionate care that supports long-term health and quality of life.”

The Metabolic Health Institute brings together the Diabetes and Endocrinology program (ranked 20th in the nation by U.S. News and World Report) and the Bariatrics and Weight Management program, creating a seamless experience for patients who often manage multiple, interconnected conditions.

To learn more about weight loss and metabolic health care through the AdventHealth Metabolic Health Institute, visit AdventHealthMHI.com or talk with your primary care provider about a referral.