Jakarta, May 5 2026 – Modern lifestyle factors such as excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods high in sugar and fat, lack of physical activity (sedentary lifestyle), lack of sleep (which disrupts hunger hormones), and chronic stress (which increases cortisol and triggers emotional eating) have contributed to the rising obesity rate in Indonesia each year. Lifestyle patterns maintained over many years lead to metabolic adaptation, where metabolism slows down and the body perceives the new weight as normal, making weight loss difficult. It is this cycle that ultimately makes weight gain difficult to control.
Therefore, people with obesity are required to reset their eating habits, not simply regulate them, through a structured weight management program. In some patients, bariatric surgery may become an option when the risks of maintaining obesity are considered greater than the risks of the surgery itself.
“Bariatric surgery is part of metabolic disease therapy. This procedure works by changing the anatomy of the digestive tract to help control hunger, calorie absorption, and hormonal responses related to diabetes and other metabolic disorders. There are several minimum BMI criteria depending on the patient’s health background that may benefit from bariatric surgery. These include: diabetes mellitus patients with a BMI above 27.5; patients with comorbidities and a BMI above 30; and patients without comorbidities and a BMI above 35,” said dr Handy Wing, Digestive Surgery Specialist handling bariatric surgery patients at LIGHThouse Advanced Clinic.
It is important to note that deciding to undergo bariatric surgery is not a “shortcut.” Patients will need to adapt to a new and unfamiliar eating pattern due to the reduced stomach capacity. Because of this, nutritional guidance and the need for additional supplements are essential for post-bariatric patients.
“Before and after bariatric surgery, patients experience significant dietary changes, especially during the post-surgery period, which is very crucial because patients must adapt to their new stomach condition. Our focus is not only on ensuring adequate fluid and protein intake, but also on preventing micronutrient deficiencies and assisting patients through each stage of food adaptation. We also provide comprehensive education regarding dietary adjustments, because even though the stomach size becomes smaller, challenges, temptations, and cravings still exist. Therefore, bariatric patients require ongoing support so that the surgical results can remain optimal and sustainable in the long term,” said Veronica S.Gz., Nutritionist and Program Manager at LIGHT Group.
The next challenge comes psychologically, as permanent and drastic changes can affect the patient’s mental condition. According to PubMed under the United States Department of Health and Human Services, around 15% of bariatric patients experience depression caused by hormonal and metabolic changes. Psychological screening before surgery and continuous support after surgery are highly recommended to monitor patients’ mental health.
“For many individuals, eating is not just a biological need, but also a coping mechanism. If the emotional root is not addressed, patients may experience frustration. Therefore, psychological support is needed so patients can adapt more quickly to the changes and adjust to their new lifestyle and mindset more effectively,” said Tara de Thouars, Clinical Psychologist at LIGHThouse Clinic.
The LIGHT Companion Program is not only intended for bariatric patients, but has also been expanded to patients undergoing Ultrasound Fat Removal (ULFRA) liposuction procedures. This program was created in response to post-procedure recovery needs that involve not only physical recovery, but also nutritional and psychological aspects. Liposuction itself is effective in removing subcutaneous fat that has accumulated over a long period of time. However, without sustainable changes in diet and lifestyle, there is still a risk of fat reaccumulating in the same area.
Through a comprehensive support approach, the LIGHT Companion Program focuses on education and behavioral change (lifestyle shifting) to help patients maintain their treatment results, achieve optimal weight loss, and build healthier long-term habits.
“As a pioneer in weight management with more than 22 years of experience in handling obesity patients, we remain committed to providing comprehensive, integrated, and sustainable solutions. At LIGHThouse Advanced Clinic, we ensure that every patient receives complete support, starting from pre-surgical nutrition to post-surgical nutrition, to help patients adapt optimally to their new eating patterns. This approach is also supported by psychological assistance aimed at overcoming anxiety while helping patients develop healthier and more sustainable mindsets and lifestyle habits,” said Anna Wibowo, CMO of LIGHT Group.
Through a holistic approach, the LIGHT Companion Program offers intensive supports that includes consultations with experts such as nutritionist, medical specialists, and psychologists, as well as post-operative treatment planning. Further information about our services and consultations is available through the official LIGHThouse Advanced Clinic channels or the Instagram account @lighthouse_advanced.
About LIGHT Group
LIGHT Group is a comprehensive weight management solution provider in Indonesia. LIGHT Group, established in 2004, started with the LIGHThouse clinic for weight control services. To date, more than 100,000 patients are satisfied with the LIGHTweight program designed by dr. Grace Judio. In addition, LIGHT Group develops diet and healthy living products (LIGHTmeal), diet coaching applications (LIGHTcoach), and Corporate Wellness Programs (LIGHTcoach Corporate), as well as fat removal, bariatric surgery, and aesthetic surgery services through LIGHThouse Advanced. LIGHT Group also provides psychological therapies such as hypnotherapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and group therapy to help patients achieve ideal weight and a healthy lifestyle.
For further information, please contact:
LIGHT Group Corporate Communication
utami.pratiwi@light-group.co
