WHY WE'RE DIFFERENT

Long-Term Weight Loss with Expert Ideal Protein Coaching at GIA180 @ Gastrointestinal Associates

At GIA180 @ Gastrointestinal Associates, our certified Ideal Protein coach brings dedicated expertise and personalized support in Knoxville, TN and online

to every client relationship.

Personalized Support for Lasting Change
Our team of certified Ideal Protein weight loss coach at GIA180 @ Gastrointestinal Associates provides customized guidance, accountability, and professional insight to support you in reaching your weight loss goals and maintaining them long-term.
Tailored Plans for Every Body
Your weight loss journey is unique. That's why we offer a structured, results-driven protocol designed to fit your metabolism, lifestyle, and wellness objectives in Knoxville, TN and online.
Inspiring Transformations, Lasting Success
See how real people at GIA180 @ Gastrointestinal Associates have successfully achieved sustainable weight loss and improved their overall health through our comprehensive Ideal Protein coaching and nutrition protocol.

Meet the Ideal Protein Coaching Team at

GIA180 @ Gastrointestinal Associates

What makes the coaching team at GIA180 @ Gastrointestinal Associates different is the combination of deep Ideal Protein expertise and genuine compassion for every client we work with. Available in Knoxville, TN and online, our certified coach brings both the knowledge to guide you through the protocol and the warmth to make every step of your journey feel supported and achievable.

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.

No Pressure, Just Answers

We Are Here When You Are Ready

Taking the first step can feel overwhelming, and that is completely normal. The team at GIA180 @ Gastrointestinal Associates offers support in Knoxville, TN and online and is here to answer your questions, walk you through how the program works, and help you figure out whether it is the right fit, with zero obligation and no sales pressure.

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.