Weight Wellness Day
Weight Wellness Day (WWD) is a free community event scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 at UT Southwestern Medical Center. It is open to UT Southwestern employees, patients, family members, and friends. There is no cost to attend, and lunch will be provided. Registration is requested.
UT Southwestern physicians, researchers, advanced practice providers, and nurses will lead talks during WWD 2026. Attendees also can speak informally with experts at information stations. Numerous medical discoveries and facts will be explored, such as:
- Causes Of Obesity And Overweight (Biological, Environmental, Lifestyle)
- Weight Management Options (Lifestyle, Medications, Endoscopic Therapies)
- GLP-1 And Related Treatments (Benefits, Risks, Practical Considerations)
- Realistic Expectations For Weight Loss And Long-Term Management
- Strategies For Improving Nutrition And Healthy Eating Habits
- Personalized Treatment Planning Based On Individual Needs And Goals
- Role Of Nutrition And Cooking In Supporting Wellness And Weight Management
Weight Wellness Day is sponsored by the UT Southwestern Nutrition and Obesity Research Center (NORC).
- 2026 Program Schedule
- 9:00 a.m. –9:05a.m.
- Welcome / Introduction to Weight Wellness Day 2026
Jeffrey Zigman, M.D., Ph.D., F.T.O.S. - 9:05 a.m. –10:20 a.m.
- Key Tools for Effective Weight Management
Tonia Vinton, M.D. - Anna Tavakkoli, M.D., M.Sc.
- Dalton Williams, M.A., RD, LD
- This moderated panel discussion will explore effective weight management options. UT Southwestern experts will discuss the important role of physical activity and lifestyle changes, weight loss medications, and endoscopic weight loss therapies. Panelists will explain who these approaches may be best suited for, how well they work, and what the benefits and risks may be. The discussion will also focus on how care can be personalized based on an individual’s health needs, preferences, and goals.
- 10:20 a.m. –11:35 a.m.
- GLP-1 Medications: What You Need to Know
Melissa Shoemaker, M.D. - This session will explain, in clear and accessible terms, the medications many people are hearing about for weight management and other emerging therapies. Attendees will learn who these medications are intended for, how they work, expected benefits beyond weight loss, common side effects, and what a typical treatment plan may involve. The session will also address practical questions surrounding long-term use, medication access, insurance coverage, and how individuals can determine whether these treatments may be appropriate for them.
- 11:40 a.m. –12:40 p.m.
- Food as Medicine: Discussion and Cooking Demonstration
- Jaclyn Albin, M.D.
- Milette Siler, M.B.A.-HC, RD, LD, CCMS
- In this interactive session, attendees will learn how everyday food choices can support health and help prevent or manage obesity and related conditions. Through an engaging discussion and live cooking demonstration, participants will explore realistic and sustainable ways to prepare nutritious meals that fit into busy lifestyles. The session emphasizes practical strategies for gradual, long-term healthy changes while encouraging attendees to view food as a powerful tool for improving overall well-being.
- 12:40 p.m. –2:45 p.m.
- Lunch & Information Booths
- Attendees will have the opportunity to engage informally with healthcare professionals, community organizations, and wellness-focused exhibitors while enjoying a complimentary lunch.