Medical weight loss programs are gaining traction as an effective, evidence-based method for losing stubborn weight. Unlike a standard weight loss program and even a diet, a medical weight loss program is overseen by a medical professional who prescribes the right weight loss medication. These programs offer more accountability than standard diets, helping patients stay on track toward their weight loss goals.

Components of a Medical Weight Loss Program

A medical weight loss program is a specialized program that is customized to fit your needs and goals. It is supervised by a medical professional and encompasses weight loss medication, diet recommendations, and lifestyle changes so that you can lose hard-to-get-rid-of weight.  The program can also be helpful if you have trouble controlling your cravings and adopting healthier eating habits.

During a consultation, a team member will measure your BMI (Body Mass Index). A BMI of 30 or higher is classified as obese according to medical guidelines, and those patients are ideal candidates for medical weight loss. A doctor oversees all medical weight loss programs to help lose weight and offers the professional guidance needed for success.

To set you up for weight loss success, we will discuss your ideal weight and help create a plan that will make it attainable to meet your goals while also working with your lifestyle. Behavior modifications, as well as following a healthy diet that works for your body type and lifestyle, are necessary to see success with a medical weight loss program.

Weight loss medication is also prescribed to complement your personalized weight loss diet and recommended exercise plan. These medications regulate hunger signals, helping you feel full and reducing cravings. You will be monitored carefully while taking weight loss medication to ensure you are healthy and seeing success.

How Medical Weight Loss Differs from Traditional Diets

Medical weight loss is more effective than typical diets. A personalized weight loss plan with proper monitoring provides a unique, individualized weight loss program specific to your needs, which a diet alone cannot achieve.

Programs based on medical weight loss are customized to each individual and fit your unique goals, lifestyle, and personal preferences, which sets you up for success. Not only is it easier to implement and follow a personalized medical weight loss plan, but it is also easier to stay on it versus sticking to a one-size-fits-all diet.

Most diets are not medically supervised, which can limit their effectiveness. With a medical weight loss program, each step of the way is overseen by a licensed physician. This will also help to identify any roadblocks that may prevent you from losing weight. Plus, our team is here to help guide and support you through the medical weight loss process, which isn’t the same as a traditional diet.

The Benefits of Medical Weight Loss

In addition to weight loss, medical programs offer several health benefits, such as:

• Better sleep
• A boost of confidence
• Instilling healthy habits
• Increased energy
• Improved mood
• Decreased risk of diabetes and heart conditions
• Reduction in high blood pressure and cholesterol levels

Medical weight loss is also a safer way to lose weight because a professional monitors it. This is beneficial for overcoming any issues that may come up throughout your journey while keeping your health and safety a priority. Most weight loss programs don’t have anyone administering them, which can prevent you from losing weight in a healthy way.

Common Medications Used

Several different medications are used in medical weight loss, depending on what you will benefit most. One of the more popular medications for weight loss is the GLP-1s, a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists used to treat both obesity and type 2 diabetes.

GLP-1 is a hormone released by the intestines that stimulates insulin production, slows digestion, and signals fullness to the brain. It also slows down how quickly food moves from the stomach to the intestines and gives the brain the signal that the stomach is full. 

A widely used GLP-1 agonist is semaglutide, available under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy. In addition to helping you lose weight and keep blood sugar levels under control, these medications can improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is medical weight loss, and how does it work?

Medical weight loss is a specialized program used to lose under the guidance of a healthcare professional, usually a doctor. It works by keeping you on track during your weight loss journey while providing the guidance and support needed to be successful.

What are the benefits of participating in a medical weight loss program?

The main benefit of a medical weight loss program is weight loss and healthy weight maintenance. Other health benefits usually accompany the weight loss benefits of these programs.

How is medical weight loss different from other weight loss methods?

Medical weight loss is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. It is overseen by a professional and offers guidance and support for success. Usually, medical weight loss consists of a diet and exercise plan, lifestyle changes, and weight loss medication.

How much weight can I expect to lose?

The amount of weight you will lose depends on your current body weight, the weight loss medication prescribed, and your commitment to a healthy diet and exercise plan. Weight loss medications can help you lose about five to 15 percent of your body weight in about one year.