WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMS

As you search for weight loss help it is easy to become overwhelmed by the noise of advertising tricks and tactics. I want to help you understand the differences between the terms being promoted such as:

  • Weight Loss Center
  • Weight Loss Medical Center
  • Weight Loss Online
  • Weight Loss Clinic
  • Weight Loss Medical Clinic
  • Weight Loss Management
  • Semaglutide Online
  • Weight Loss Doctor
  • Weight Loss Therapy
  • Weight Loss Surgery

Consider all your prescription treatment options. Don’t just settle for any weight loss pill like phentermine or trendy weight loss injections like semaglutide (Ozempic), liraglutide (Victoza), tirzepatide (Mounjaro), or HCG. 

The first thing to know about a weight loss program is the qualifications of the person making the decisions about your treatment. Unfortunately, many programs are administered by a medical assistant, a licensed vocational nurse, or a registered nurse who calls a doctor at a separate location for instructions.  Insist on being monitored directly by a doctor, a nurse practitioner, or a physician assistant. When possible, choose one with many years of experience managing a wide range of treatment options. They should also demonstrate both the willingness and the ability to customize an individualized weight loss program to help you accomplish your weight loss goals.

DOCTOR SUPERVISED WEIGHT LOSS TREATMENTS

Weight Loss Injections Like Semaglutide

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide): Mounjaro is a dual-acting medication that combines glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) agonism. It is primarily approved for managing blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. While not yet FDA-approved for weight loss, Mounjaro may be prescribed off-label for weight management when other methods have been ineffective.

Liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza): Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist initially approved for type 2 diabetes management. It has also received FDA approval for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight. Liraglutide injections, such as Saxenda, help suppress appetite, slow digestion, and promote weight loss when used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

References – 

Other Weight Loss Injections

It’s important to note that using medications off-label for weight loss should be done under the guidance of a doctor. The safety, effectiveness, and potential side effects of these medications may vary.

MIC (Methionine, Inositol, and Choline) Injections: MIC injections are a combination of essential amino acids and vitamins, including Methionine, Inositol, and Choline. Methionine helps in the breakdown and transport of fats, preventing their accumulation in the liver and promoting their utilization as an energy source. Inositol plays a role in cell signaling and lipid metabolism, improving insulin sensitivity and supporting weight loss. Choline is involved in fat metabolism and liver function, preventing fat buildup in the liver, and facilitating its utilization as energy. MIC injections work synergistically to enhance fat metabolism, boost energy levels, and promote weight loss.

Vitamin B12 Injections: Vitamin B12 injections contain a high dose of vitamin B12, which is involved in various metabolic processes. While there is limited scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of vitamin B12 injections for weight loss, they are often used to supplement a weight loss plan. Vitamin B12 injections may provide a boost of energy and support overall well-being during weight loss. 

Lipo-Shots (Lipotropic Injections): Lipo-Shots, or lipotropic injections, are a combination of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that are believed to aid in fat loss. Common ingredients in lipotropic injections include vitamin B12, vitamin B6, vitamin B complex, and amino acids like methionine, inositol, and choline. These injections are often used as a complement to a weight loss program, including exercise and a low-calorie diet. However, the scientific evidence for the effectiveness of lipotropic injections in weight loss is limited, and they are not regulated in the same way as prescription medications.

HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) Injections: HCG injections contain the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin, which is naturally produced during pregnancy. HCG injections are sometimes used as part of a weight loss program called the HCG diet. The HCG diet involves severe calorie restriction along with daily injections of HCG.

References – 

Semaglutide

Semaglutide WARNING – DO NOT USE Semaglutide if any of the following applies to you:

  • A Personal or Family History of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (thyroid cancer)
  • A Personal History of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 (MEN 2) 
  • A Personal History of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
  • A Personal History of Pancreatitis

Semaglutide Cautions exist for the following patients:

  • Individuals with a Personal History of Stomach or Intestinal Disorders 
  • Individuals with Kidney Disease.
  • Individuals with Diabetic Eye Problems such as Diabetic Retinopathy

Semaglutide Other Names include Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus

15 Common Semaglutide Side Effects
(experienced by10% or more of patients):

  • Nausea (44%)
  • Diarrhea (30%)
  • Vomiting (24%)
  • Constipation (24%)
  • Abdominal Pain (20%)
  • Fatigue (11%)
  • Loss of Appetite: (10%)
  • Headache (14%)
  • Increased Hunger
  • Low Blood Sugar
  • Indigestion
  • Skin Rash
  • Anxiety
  • Dizziness
  • Slurred Speech

20 Other, Less Common Semaglutide Side Effects
(experienced by less than 10% of patients):

  • Upset Stomach
  • Sour Stomach
  • Heartburn
  • Indigestion
  • Dyspepsia
  • Gastroenteritis
  • Gastritis
  • Rash
  • Appendicitis
  • Hair Loss
  • Low Blood Pressure
  • Change of Taste
  • Burping or Belching
  • Flatulence or Gas 
  • Pressure in the Stomach
  • Gallbladder Stones, Infections
  • Loss of Consciousness, Fainting
  • Stomach Discomfort or Tenderness
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) 
  • Abdominal Distention, Swelling, or Bloating

References:

Weight Loss Pills

Phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira): Phentermine is an appetite suppressant that stimulates the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that reduces hunger. It is approved for short-term use as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and exercise for weight loss.

Phentermine/topiramate ER (Qsymia): Qsymia is a combination of phentermine, an appetite suppressant, and topiramate extended release, an anticonvulsant. It helps decrease appetite and increase satiety. Qsymia is approved for long-term use as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

Orlistat (Xenical, Alli): Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor that reduces the absorption of dietary fat in the intestines. It is approved for long-term use and is available both as a prescription medication and an over-the-counter (OTC) version at a lower dosage.

Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave): This combination medication consists of an opioid antagonist (naltrexone) and an antidepressant (bupropion). It helps reduce food cravings and increase feelings of fullness. Contrave is approved for long-term use as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

Bupropion/naltrexone (Mysimba): Mysimba is another combination medication that combines bupropion, an antidepressant, with naltrexone, an opioid antagonist. It helps reduce food cravings and control appetite. Mysimba is approved for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight.

References – 

Weight Loss Diets

Basic Principles of an Effective Weight Loss Diet

Calorie Deficit: To lose weight, it is essential to create a calorie deficit by consuming fewer calories than your body needs. This can be achieved by controlling portion sizes, choosing lower-calorie foods, and reducing high-calorie or sugary beverages.

Balanced and Nutritious Meals: A healthy weight loss diet should include a variety of nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein while keeping you satisfied and nourished.

Portion control: Controlling portion sizes can help manage calorie intake. It’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and avoid oversized servings. Eating slowly and paying attention to hunger and fullness cues can also support portion control.

Regular physical activity: Alongside a balanced diet, regular physical activity is crucial for weight loss. Engaging in activities such as walking, jogging, strength training, or aerobic exercises helps burn calories, increase metabolism, build muscle, and improve overall fitness.

Sustainability and Behavior Changes: Long-term success with weight loss requires adopting sustainable lifestyle changes rather than relying on short-term or restrictive diets. Focus on building healthy habits, such as mindful eating, regular exercise, and finding ways to manage stress, to maintain weight loss and improve overall well-being.

References – 

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/25-best-diet-tips

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/in-depth/weight-loss/art-20047752

Popular Diet Programs in Our Culture 

Cabbage Soup Diet (1950s): This diet involved consuming large quantities of cabbage soup while limiting other foods. It claimed to result in rapid weight loss, primarily due to water loss rather than fat loss. The lack of variety and low-calorie intake made it unsustainable and led to nutrient deficiencies.

Atkins Diet (1972): Developed by Dr. Robert Atkins, this low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet aimed to induce a state of ketosis, where the body burns fat for energy. It promoted high protein and fat intake while restricting carbohydrates. The Atkins Diet gained popularity but raised concerns about long-term health effects due to its high saturated fat content.

Ketogenic Diet (20th century): Like the Atkins Diet, the ketogenic diet is very low in carbohydrates and high in fats, with moderate protein intake. By reducing carbohydrates to a minimum, the body enters ketosis and relies on fat for fuel. The diet has been used for medical purposes but may have challenges with sustainability and potential nutrient deficiencies.

Paleolithic (Paleo) Diet (20th century): The Paleo Diet is based on the idea of eating like our Paleolithic ancestors. It emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods such as lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, while excluding grains, legumes, dairy, and processed foods. While it promotes whole foods, the exclusion of certain food groups may lead to nutritional imbalances.

Mediterranean Diet (20th century): Inspired by the traditional eating patterns of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, this diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, lean proteins (such as fish and poultry), healthy fats (like olive oil), and moderate red wine consumption. The Mediterranean Diet is known for its potential health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and improved longevity.

Detox Diets: These diets typically involve short-term, restrictive eating plans aimed at eliminating toxins from the body. They often focus on fruit and vegetable juices, fasting, or specific food restrictions. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support the efficacy of detox diets, and they may lead to nutrient deficiencies and unhealthy relationships with food.

References – 

Natural Weight Loss Supplements

Vitamin D3

Some studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency may be linked to weight gain, and supplementation may have a role in weight management. If you are using vitamin D and calcium, it is important to also use vitamin K2.  Please seek the advice of an informed doctor for further details.

B vitamins

B vitamins, including B6, B12, and folate (B9), play a role in energy metabolism. They are often included in weight loss supplements to support energy production and metabolism.

Chromium

Chromium is a mineral that may help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce cravings. It is commonly found in weight loss supplements such as chromium polynicotinate.

Green tea extract

Green tea contains catechins, which are believed to enhance metabolism and fat oxidation. Green tea extract is a popular ingredient in weight loss supplements.

Garcinia cambogia

Garcinia cambogia is a fruit extract that contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA). HCA is claimed to suppress appetite and inhibit fat production. Be cautious with this supplement because it has been associated with liver damage in some cases.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase metabolism and enhance fat burning. It is often included in weight loss supplements to boost energy and suppress appetite.

Glucomannan

Glucomannan is a dietary fiber derived from the root of the konjac plant. It absorbs water and expands in the stomach, promoting feelings of fullness and reducing calorie intake.

Cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which may increase metabolism and promote fat burning. It is sometimes used in weight loss supplements for its potential thermogenic effects.

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)

CLA is a type of fatty acid found in meat and dairy products. It has been studied for its potential to reduce body fat and improve body composition.

Forskolin

Forskolin is an extract from the Coleus forskolin plant. It is claimed to enhance fat burning and promote weight loss by increasing levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in cells.

Raspberry ketones

Raspberry ketones are compounds found in red raspberries. They are believed to increase fat metabolism and help with weight loss.

African mango extract

African mango extract is derived from the seeds of the African mango tree. It is often used in weight loss supplements for its potential to reduce appetite and improve fat metabolism.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is believed to have various health benefits, including weight loss. It may help control appetite, increase metabolism, and improve insulin sensitivity.

5-HTP

5-HTP is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and appetite. It is sometimes used in weight loss supplements to suppress appetite and reduce cravings.

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that promote gut health. Some research suggests.

that certain strains of probiotics may help with weight management by influencing metabolism and appetite.

Weight Loss Surgery

Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass is a mixed procedure that involves both restriction and malabsorption. In this surgery, the stomach is divided into a small upper pouch and a larger lower pouch. The small intestine is then rearranged to connect to both pouches, bypassing a portion of the digestive tract. This procedure leads to reduced food intake and decreased absorption of nutrients. Gastric bypass has been shown to be highly effective in achieving weight loss and improving obesity-related comorbidities. Studies have reported significant weight loss and improvement in conditions like type 2 diabetes and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, gastric bypass is a more complex surgery compared to other procedures, requiring strict dietary adherence and lifelong vitamin and nutrient supplementation. There is also a risk of complications such as nutrient deficiencies, osteoporosis, and anemia.

Gastric Banding

Gastric banding is a restrictive procedure that involves placing an inflatable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch. The band can be adjusted by injecting or removing fluid through an access port under the skin. This procedure limits food intake and creates a feeling of fullness with smaller portions. Gastric banding is considered less invasive, adjustable, and reversible compared to other weight loss surgeries. It has the advantage of no cuts in the gastrointestinal tract and a relatively fast recovery time. However, the weight loss achieved with gastric banding may be lower compared to other procedures. Additionally, the implant stays inside the body, and there is a higher rate of reoperation compared to other surgeries. Risks associated with gastric banding include band slippage or erosion into the stomach and potential damage to the stomach over time.

References – 

Summary of Weight Loss Programs

Weight loss programs vary in services and qualifications. When considering a program, look for qualified professionals. Regularly seeing a medical assistant or nurse for guidance is not recommended. Choose a doctor with extensive experience in managing a wide variety of treatment options. Consider prescription treatments carefully, avoiding the latest and greatest approaches until proven safe and effective. Semaglutide injection has been proven safe and effective, but you should also consider the numerous potential side effects and medical restrictions. Weight loss programs may also include MIC injections, vitamin B12 injections, lipotropic injections, HCG injections, as well as weight loss pills like phentermine, phentermine/topiramate ER, orlistat, naltrexone-bupropion, and bupropion/naltrexone. Diets should focus on a calorie deficit, balanced meals, portion control, and physical activity. Supplements like vitamin D, B vitamins, green tea extract, and more can also be used.

With Doctor Moose’s highly skilled and experienced team, you can count on customized treatment plans tailored to your needs! We are dedicated to helping each patient conquer their weight loss struggles that keep them from being the best version of themselves.

 

Discover the best you again with the expert team at Doctor Moose today!

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