As Venbrook's Vice President of Wellbeing & Engagement, I recently had the opportunity to attend Kaiser Permanente’s powerful webinar, “Weighing in on GLP-1s: Essential Strategies for Workforce Wellness.” The discussion went far beyond the buzz surrounding GLP-1 medications—it offered a holistic, compassionate, and science-backed approach to obesity and weight management in today’s workforce.

Here are my top takeaways:

1. Obesity is more than a lifestyle choice

Obesity is influenced by a mix of biology, environment, and social systems, not just personal willpower. Understanding this helps shift the narrative from blame to support.

2. Our brains love “food pleasure”

Unhealthy food triggers the brain’s reward system, making it difficult to resist. It’s not just about cravings, it's biology at work.

3. Our environment sets us up

From fast food on every corner to oversized portions, the modern food landscape normalizes unhealthy choices, making behavior change an uphill battle.

4. Stress plays a hidden role

Stress activates the “fight or flight” response, encouraging the body to store energy, often leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms like overeating.

5. Weight loss isn’t linear

When we lose weight, our bodies often fight to regain it. Metabolic adaptation and muscle loss can make long-term success especially hard without the right tools.

6. The power of holistic lifestyle changes

Promote four foundational lifestyle pillars:

  • Sleep | Prioritize it.

  • Movement | Strength training, especially.

  • Mindfulness | Practice gratitude and a positive mindset.

  • Nutrition | Focus on whole foods and balanced intake.

7. GLP-1 Medications: A double-edged sword

GLP-1 medications, like Ozempic and Wegovy, show promise for diabetes management and weight loss. However, costs, access, and long-term use must be considered.

8. Bariatric Surgery: A serious option

Surgery can be a viable path, especially when health conditions are severe. However, it's not a shortcut; instead, it's one part of a broader care plan.

9. Don’t forget muscle mass

It's critical to preserve muscle mass as you lose weight. Protein intake and resistance training both support your metabolism and long-term health.

10. Physicians as coaches

We should shift our mindsets: physicians are empathetic guides, helping patients navigate their weight management journey with encouragement, not judgment.

11. Wellness is more than weight

Many carriers offer programs that go beyond fitness, including:

  • Financial wellness

  • Social connection

  • Tobacco cessation

  • Community engagement and volunteering

These broader supports are essential for total wellbeing.

12. Stay curious, stay updated

Obesity research is rapidly evolving. Continue learning about policy advocacy and systemic change, including improved access to healthy food and affordable care.

Kaiser Permanente Resources

Have questions or want to explore how these insights can support your organization’s wellness initiatives? Feel free to reach out—I’d love to continue the conversation!

Jennifer Green, Vice President of Wellbeing & Engagement
jgreen@venbrook.com