Subjects will be selected from surgical candidates of the Nutrition and Weight Management Center who meet the study criteria. Subjects will be randomly assigned to one of the 2 groups (treatment and control). Subjects will be seen at the study site 2 weeks before surgery and 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months after surgery (for a total of 5 visits). Data recorded during the study visits will be used to assess post-operative progress and will include: body composition, resting energy expenditure, muscle strength, quality of life questionnaires, hair loss, and blood markers for insulin resistance, nutritional state, organ function, lipid profile and inflammation. Safety indicators and compliance will also be monitored.