Weight Loss Program FAQ’s

Have a question about our customized, medical weight loss plans?

Check out the most commonly asked questions regarding our customized diet plans and weight loss solutions. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, please feel free to contact our medical team today!

What is the typical weight loss per week?

Overall, the weight loss is 10% of total weight in the first 3 months, 2-5% in the 4th month, and 4lbs average a month after that. Your weight loss will depend on your total weight but, the more you have to lose, the faster it will come off. Women can expect roughly 1-3 lbs a week and men 3-5 pounds a week. The first week is always the biggest weight loss, due to extra fluid that we carry leaving the body.

How many times a day do I eat?

People should eat about 5 times a day on this diet, three meals and two snacks. A minimum of 4 servings of protein per day are required on the diet.

Will I be hungry on the diet?

Most people are very comfortable and not hungry on this diet. This is due to a higher protein intake and the state of ketosis (fat burning) that suppresses the appetite. We also offer appetite suppressants, if needed.

Are there side effects of this diet?

The side effects of the diet tend to be mild and temporary. They can include: tiredness, coldness, dizziness, bad breath, headaches, and constipation. We educate you how these can be helped, we follow up with you frequently, and you are always welcome to message us with any questions.

How often do I have to come in for appointments? How long are the appointments?

The follow up appointments are usually every 2-4 weeks while you are on the diet and run about 10-15 min. In maintenance, follow up is anywhere between 1-4 months.

Do I have to log my calories or keep a food journal?

Yes. Everyone is required to keep a food log daily, either journal or online/apps. This habit becomes one of the most important factors in maintenance in order to prevent weight regain.

Will I be able to eat out at restaurants or go to get-togethers without feeling left out because I am on the diet?

Yes, because plenty of foods are allowed on this diet. For example, at a restaurant, you can order a meat/fish with a side of veggies. At get-togethers/pot-lucks you can have meats, veggies, fruit, or other low carb options. Just no junk food or dessert.

Are caffeine, alcohol and fruit allowed on this diet?

Caffeine is allowed, we will help you figure out a low carb creamer for your coffee if needed. Alcohol and fruit are both allowed in moderation, starting in the second month of the diet.

How much water do I have to drink on the diet? Can I drink anything else?

People need to drink at least 64 oz of water (8 cups) daily. Zero carb and zero calories options are allowed such as flavored water, teas, and others.

Am I required to exercise?

Yes. We will work with each individual and their current level of exercise. We want this habit in place by the time maintenance begins, since it is one of the healthy habits required to prevent weight regain. We will set small goals and increase exercise slowly.

Will my primary care doctor know that I am on this diet?

We are happy to communicate with your primary care doctor about your progress and any medicines we have to adjust during the diet.

Does your clinic offer appetite suppressants?

Yes. We offer a couple of appetite suppressants including Phentermine and Topiramate. These medicines help control appetite and increase weight loss. Patients eligibility for these is determined by reviewing the medical history. Patients are followed very closely while using these and are only given a limited amount of the medicine.

Am I allowed to use any shakes or bars bought at the store while on the diet? Or only those sold at the clinic?

Patients are encouraged not to use over-the-counter meal replacements while on the diet. The nutritional composition of our shakes/bars is to fit the parameters of the diet and they also provide vitamins and minerals that need to be replenished while on the diet.

Do I have to take vitamins while I am on the diet?

We do recommend certain vitamins for those on the diet. Most of these are the same ones recommended by general doctors, such as a multivitamin, calcium, vitamin D, fish oil, and others.

I have diabetes, can I do the diet?

Yes. Weight loss and this diet have a very powerful sugar lowering effect. It is likely that we will be adjusting diabetes medicines during the diet. Patients will continue to check their blood sugars while on the diet.

I have high blood pressure and high cholesterol, will this diet help these?

Yes. Even a small weight loss can improve hypertension and high cholesterol. Many patients get to reduce or come off their medicines as they lose weight.

Will this diet slow down my metabolism?

A temporary decrease of metabolism is normal on any diet. We help patients preserve as much muscle mass (what gives us our metabolism) during the diet as possible through adequate protein and exercising. The good news is that after the diet, in the first year of maintenance, the metabolism will increase as people begin to eat more calories.