Medical Weight Loss Programs
Our medical programs are based on the fact that most overweight people suffer from insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia. In these conditions, the insulin that is released in response to eating carbohydrates does not work appropriately, and this leads to an overproduction of insulin in the body (hyperinsulinemia). Insulin works against weight loss by inhibiting the enzyme that breaks down the body's stored fat. It also helps to make fat out of the food we eat that is not used up in our daily activities. By limiting carbohydrates, and therefore decreasing insulin release, the insulin resistance can be reduced and the body is able to burn its stored fat. It is probably not your fault that you have been unable to lose weight on you own. Insulin resistance is likely to be a genetic problem, and correcting it requires professional help.
Why Choose Us?
What we can do for you that other programs can't: Our program is medically-monitored and is administered by licensed professional personnel. Many people who have excess weight also have diabetes, high blood pressure, high triglycerides, and/or high cholesterol. We are very skilled in treating these conditions. With treatment, the above conditions will improve, and often people will be able to reduce or eliminate their medications.
Our main program utilizes OPTIFAST®
OPTIFAST is a liquid meal replacement that provides all of the nutrients you need as cold drinks or hot soups throughout the day. There is no hunger, because you drink as many as you need, but not less than 5 - 7 per day. This allows for a very efficient weight loss--quick enough to keep you motivated and it is safe because it is medically monitored.
The advantages of the Optifast program are:
- You don't have to make food choices. All the protein, vitamins, and minerals are in the product. You don't have to think about what food you will be eating. This is termed "stimulus narrowing". It can be thought of as an "intervention" in life that will allow you to safely lose a large amount of weight in a short time. Of course, it is important to attend the weekly education sessions to learn a new way of eating that will allow you to keep the lost weight off for a lifetime.
- There is no guessing on how many calories you are consuming. Each serving supplies a specific amount of calories.
- It is easy to follow the program with no food choices. It also frees up the time that you would be spending preparing and eating meals.
- The program is convenient at work or home, as you just drink the product and you are finished. You can use the rest of your lunch hour to go for a walk.
- We offer a long-term maintenance program which allows you to reverse small weight gains over time, to help you stay at your goal weight.
Customizing Your Treatment Plan
We feature several plans which are customized to fit individuals' varying needs. A person's plan may be modified periodically to achieve continued weight loss. Each person will have an initial physical exam and medical history including blood tests and an EKG, as well as a nutritional assessment and instruction by our Registered Dietitian. Your weight loss progress and medical condition will be monitored throughout the program. Weekly education and support meetings provide information on the body's metabolic functions, how to make lifestyle changes and other weight loss issues. These meetings help each person achieve and maintain a new lower body weight for the long term. An exercise program is prescribed for each person. To learn more about our clinic and how we can work together to meet your goals, please email drseim@medicalweightcenter.com, and we will contact you. We look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
Treatment Options
Low Calorie Diet (LCD)
The OPTIFAST Program
This diet uses an 800-calorie formula as the source of nutrition for as long as needed. During the weight loss phase, participants work on re-learning eating patterns. LCDs work best for those who have 50 pounds or more to lose by reducing insulin resistance, controlling appetite, and allowing weight loss to proceed.
Modified Fast with Formula
The modified fast is similar to the low calorie diet but it involves the addition of one meal per day along with the use of the liquid meal replacement. This treatment method is effective for many people, especially those with less that 50 pounds to lose.
Food Plan (with or without medication)
The Registered Dietitian will consult with you to identify a food plan which will promote weight loss for you. This may or may not be enhanced with drug therapy.
Medication Therapy
Several medications are available for aiding in weight loss. These drugs are used according to specific guidelines and as a part of an overall program of diet, exercise, behavior modification and nutrition education.