WHY WE'RE DIFFERENT

Science-Backed Weight Loss & One-on-One Coaching

Dedicated Weight Loss Specialists
Our team of certified health coaches provides one-on-one guidance, expert nutrition advice, and ongoing motivation to help you reach your ideal weight and maintain your results.

Structured & Effective Plans
We don’t believe in fad diets. Our evidence-based weight loss protocol is designed to support fat burning, muscle preservation, and long-term metabolic health.

Proven Success with Real People
At GIA180 @ Gastrointestinal Associates, we’ve helped countless individuals achieve their weight loss goals and sustain their progress. Their journeys prove that lasting change is possible with the right approach.

Meet the GIA180 @ Gastrointestinal Associates Team

At GIA180 @ Gastrointestinal Associates, we are dedicated to providing top-quality health and wellness services that truly make a difference. Our caring professionals are here to support and guide you with personalized care and expertise, helping you reach your health goals.

Dr. Johnny Altawil, M.D.

Physician Nutrition Specialist, experienced Orbera® specialist

“GIA180 offers tools and solutions that can restore health and change lives. Our personal support is unmatched, and we offer multiple levels within the program to help our clients have a healthier future.”

Dr. Johnny Altawil, born and raised in Damascus, Syria, attended a Christian elementary school and finished high school with honors. He completed his medical doctorate degree at University of Damascus School of Medicine in 2006 and subsequently moved to the United States for medical training.

Before joining Gastrointestinal Associates in the summer of 2013, he completed his internal medicine residency and gastroenterology fellowship at Wayne State University/Detroit Medical Center in Detroit.

Dr. Altawil is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, the American Board of Gastroenterology and the American Board of Obesity Medicine. He also is a certified Physician Nutrition Specialist by the National Board of Physician Nutrition Specialists.

Dr. Altawil loves music, listening to different genres and playing the guitar. In his free time, he also enjoys spending time outdoors and staying active in many sports, especially soccer.

Melissa Conner, RN

Director, GIA180, weight loss coach

“My goal is to teach others how to eat better for life and provide the training and tools to make it happen. I am so thankful for the amazing clients I have met who have become friends and a part of my heart. I want clients to leave our office feeling loved and confident about the week ahead!”

Melissa Conner has been a registered nurse (RN) for more than 20 years and has experience in GI, medical-surgical, post-partum and labor and delivery nursing. Her true passion is helping others achieve health goals.

Melissa has served as director and coach of GIA180 since 2015. She appreciates having multiple weight loss options that meet the needs of almost all clients. She loves seeing clients meet their goals, gain confidence and live their best lives.

Outside of work, Melissa and her husband have four kids, and you likely can find her at a youth sporting event or cheering for the Vols. Her favorite exercise is walking – especially with her husband in their neighborhood, or at their happy place: the beach. She also enjoys cooking healthy and easy meals and listing to country and Christian music.

A structured weight loss protocol designed to help you achieve and maintain lasting health goals with confidence. Backed by expert science and compassionate care, we provide continuous support for sustainable, lifelong results.