Weight Loss Program
Why do people want to lose weight?
There are many individual reasons for wanting to lose weight. Some of the most common reasons are:
- To look better
- To feel better
- To have more energy
- To have improve memory and concentration
- To be healthier
This last reason - to be healthier - is an especially good reason for many Americans in the new millennium to participate in a weight loss program. A weight loss as little as 5 - 10% of total body weight can result in:
- Increased energy and stamina
- Decreased blood pressure
- Reduced risk of diabetes
- Reduced risk of heart disease and stroke
- Reduced risk of some types of arthritis
- Reduced risk of asthma and breathing problems
What is the best approach to weight loss?
Beware of weight loss products or programs that offer:
- Quick, easy results
- Results without lifestyle changes
- Results without reducing calories and/or increasing activity levels
A truly successful weight loss strategy that has the potential of permanent results will address all of the factors that help determine a person's weight:
- How much and what kinds of foods are eaten (calories in)
- Level of physical activity (calories out)
- Use of food to respond to stress or emotional situations
- Physiological and genetic make-up
- Age and health status
Why participate in Health Circle's physician-supervised weight loss program?
It is a good idea to consult with a physician before starting a weight loss product or a weight loss program. A physician can evaluate a person's beginning health status in order to design the most appropriate weight loss strategy. A physician can help monitor each individual's progress for safety and efficacy. A physician can utilize prescription medications when appropriate to assist in achieving weight loss goals.
Health Circle's weight loss program has the following features:
- There is a set monthly fee that allows each person to see the physician at least twice per month.
- Additional visits in a month are at no additional cost.
- One of the measurements used to set weight loss goals will be the BMI or Body Mass Index. The BMI along with measurement of the circumference of the waist are reliable ways to estimate body fat and relative health risks.
- Educational materials on Dietary Guidelines for Americans, food pyramids, etc. will be made available to the person in the program. These guidelines emphasize lowered fat consumption and increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Educational material regarding ways to increase daily activity levels will be available
- Medications may be prescribed to medically appropriate individuals to augment reductions in caloric intake and/or increases in physical activity in order to achieve weight loss goals.
- The physician will monitor each person for any complications and/or side-effects.
- The monthly cost is $95 for the first month and $65 for each additional month. Medication costs are extra.
- If a patient seeks evaluation or treatment for other medical issues during a weight loss visit, additional charges will be charged or billed to insurance.