Struggling with weight loss can often feel overwhelming, but there’s hope! Medical weight loss clinics offer support and expertise to help you achieve your health goals. If you're in Carlsbad, New Mexico or Carlsbad, California, and looking for a medically assisted weight loss solution, this article breaks down what to expect and how these clinics can help.
Why Weight Loss Matters
Weight loss is about more than just looking good; it plays a vital role in your overall health and well-being. Increased BMI may put individuals at risk of a variety of health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers. The extra weight also puts pressure on joints, resulting in pain and decreased mobility with age.
Many people struggle with weight loss due to factors like physical pain, cravings, limited diet knowledge, medication, or busy schedules that make healthy living challenging. A healthy lifestyle is key to reaching an ideal weight. However, it’s difficult to exercise enough if physical activity causes pain. Plus, cravings may make it difficult to eat well. In addition, there may be other factors playing a role, such as genetics, a lack of knowledge of what a balanced diet looks like, or limited time for physical activity, preparing healthy meals, and sleeping. Lastly, some people gain weight due to a medication like a beta blocker needed to control a chronic health condition.
What is Medical Weight Loss?
Medical weight loss provides a structured and supervised approach to losing weight that is guided by healthcare experts. Using the highest-quality weight loss medications accompanied with evidence-based strategies, doctors help individuals achieve and maintain a healthier body weight.
The best medical weight loss programs pair medications with lifestyle changes.
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Personalized Treatment Plans
At medical weight loss clinics in Carlsbad, New Mexico and Carlsbad, California, they offer personalized programs made just for you. When you seek support from the best medical weight loss clinic in Carlsbad, expect an individualized experience. The first step is to reach out to medical professionals in your area. Ask Klinic to connect you with a medical weight loss specialist near you. Specialists gather your personal and family medical history, helping to tailor programs that minimize side effects and enhance results.
Gameday’s medical weight loss programs start with a comprehensive assessment of your overall health, including medical history, current medications, and any underlying medical conditions that may impact weight loss efforts. If eligible, the provider will create a tailored weight loss program to fit your goals.
Prescription Weight Loss Programs
It’s often difficult - if not impossible - to lose weight with willpower alone. The good news is that medical providers and treatments are available to help you lose that stubborn extra weight. One of the most effective strategies is to incorporate medication alongside lifestyle changes. There are modern, non-invasive medications designed for weight loss available through medically supervised weight loss clinics. Typically, providers recommend weight loss medications for individuals with obesity, defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or more. However, anyone with a BMI of 27 or above can still be considered if suffering from obesity-related conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
Semaglutide
Among other medical treatments, prescription medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide stand out for their effectiveness. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 medication administered as a weekly subcutaneous injection. Delivered through a weekly subcutaneous injection, semaglutide helps control hunger and regulate blood sugar levels. It not only keeps you feeling fuller longer but also regulates blood sugar levels, making it especially beneficial for patients with type 2 diabetes.
GLP-1 (glucagon-like-peptide-1), a receptor agonist, means that it mimics the hormone GLP-1, which regulates hunger and food intake. Additionally, when GLP-1 is taken on a weekly basis, it suppresses the hormone glucagon to prevent feelings of hunger. Additionally, it delays gastric emptying, therefore making you feel more satisfied after a meal.
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A recent study of 1,961 people found that in people with a BMI over 30 and who did not have diabetes, GLP-1 injections combined with exercise resulted in a mean decrease in body weight of 14.9% over 68 weeks. The placebo group saw only a 2.4% mean decrease in weight. A second study found that when combined with behavioral therapy and incorporating a low-calorie diet into meal plans, GLP-1 provided even more significant weight loss. GLP-1 is often prescribed to men and women who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or individuals with a BMI of 27 or higher that is accompanied by high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or other health conditions that can make weight loss difficult.
Medical weight loss treatments, including GLP-1 receptor agonists and other therapies, are designed to help regulate hunger and manage food intake. GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone that controls hunger and cravings, helping individuals feel fuller for longer periods. This can contribute to reduced calorie intake and gradual weight loss. Additionally, these treatments can slow down the digestive process, leading to greater satisfaction after meals.
Recent studies show that medical weight loss therapies, including GLP-1 receptor agonists, are most effective when combined with regular physical activity and healthy dietary habits. Individuals who adopt these changes while undergoing treatment often experience more substantial weight reduction over time compared to those who do not implement lifestyle adjustments.
GLP-1 injections offer many benefits to qualified candidates, including:
- Significantly reducing weight when combined with changes in diet and exercise
- Providing consistent, safe weight loss over an extended period of time
- Diminished risk of heart and cardiovascular disease upon achieving a healthy weight
- Helping you to look and feel healthier
- Requiring only one injection per week
It often is not until 4 or more weeks on a dose of 0.5 mg that patients will start to see a decline in weight. It’s possible that some individuals might not notice weight loss until close to 6 weeks. Studies have shown that GLP-1 is most effective when combined with exercise and changes in diet. Therefore, the exact amount of time someone might need to receive this treatment will depend on current health conditions (if any) and if exercise and dietary changes can be adopted permanently to maintain an ideal weight.
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Potential side effects can include headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, changes in mood, constipation or diarrhea, heartburn, and bloating. While rare, more severe side effects can include pancreatitis, allergic reactions, kidney damage, gallstones, and others. Your medical specialist at Gameday Men’s Health will thoroughly discuss the potential side effects with you and answer any questions you might have regarding the injections.
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide works similarly. This weekly injection helps manage blood sugar and slows digestion, helping patients eat less. Similar to semaglutide, tirzepatide works by modulating blood sugar and appetite through another weekly injection. This medication is tailored to meet individual needs through compounding, so you receive the precise dose that fits you best.
MIC Lipotropic Shots
MIC lipotropic shots provide unique advantages for men. When integrated with proper nutrition and exercise, these lipotropic metabolism boosters can significantly enhance your body composition within weeks. Benefits may include:
- Burn Fat
- Boost Energy
- Improved Metabolism
- Stubborn Fat Breakdown
- Supports Lean Muscle Retention
- Enhanced Liver Function
- Cholesterol Management
- Improved Workout Performance
- Faster Recovery Times
Gameday Men’s Health believes in making MIC injections accessible for all men seeking optimal wellness:
- Multi-session packages available at discounted rates
- Flexible payment options available
- Potential eligibility for FSA/HSA coverage with documentation support
What to Expect During Your Consultation and Appointments
Your Gameday Men’s Health GLP-1 specialist will review your health history with you and perform a physical health analysis, including evaluating your BMI.
GLP-1 injections only need to be given once per week as a subcutaneous injection. The dosage is typically increased over time as the weeks’ progress. The exact amount of dosage given will depend on your specific health, weight, and needs. As mentioned, most individuals begin to notice weight loss between 4 to 6 weeks after beginning the injections.
Are You A Candidate?
If you are someone who has excess weight and/or is obese without any significant health complications, you might be a candidate for GLP-1 injections.
Comprehensive Health Considerations
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a treatment used to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause. As women approach menopause, their bodies produce less estrogen and progesterone, which can lead to various uncomfortable symptoms. The loss of oestrogens that results in most menopause symptoms. HRT aims to replace the declining levels of estrogen and helps to reduce your menopause symptoms.
There are two main types of HRT: estrogen-only therapy and combination therapy (estrogen and progestin). For most women, HRT is an effective way of managing menopause symptoms. HRT can provide relief from menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings. It may also help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
The duration a person stays on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can vary widely and depends on several factors, including individual goals, medical considerations, and other various care plans.
Sexual Health
Age can influence sexual health. For example, menopause may lead to changes in hormonal levels and vaginal dryness, impacting sexual comfort. Hormonal fluctuations, especially during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, can affect skin health. Estrogen, in particular, plays a crucial role in maintaining skin elasticity, hydration, and collagen production. As estrogen levels decline during menopause, women may experience increased dryness, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Hormonal imbalances can also contribute to acne breakouts and increased sensitivity.
Hormones play a role in sexual health. Common sexual health signs I should be aware of include vaginal dryness, which can result from hormonal changes, medications, or certain health conditions.
Vaginismus is a condition where the muscles around the vagina involuntarily contract, making penetration painful or impossible.
Pelvic Floor Health
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that form a supportive sling at the bottom of the pelvis. These muscles support the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. A healthy pelvic floor is essential for sexual function. Factors such as pregnancy, childbirth, aging, obesity, chronic constipation, and certain medical conditions can contribute to weakening of the pelvic floor muscles.
Pelvic floor dysfunction can lead to issues like pain during sex, difficulty reaching orgasm, and challenges with arousal. During menopause, hormonal changes can lead to decreased vaginal lubrication and changes in the pelvic floor.
Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. These exercises involve contracting and relaxing the muscles that support the pelvic organs. To perform them, tighten the muscles as if trying to stop the flow of urine and hold for a few seconds before releasing. Pelvic floor exercises are not exclusive to women.
Pelvic floor dysfunction can be treated.
Vitamin Therapy
Vitamin Therapy, also known as intravenous (IV) vitamin therapy, delivers a concentrated dose of essential vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream. Vitamin injections are designed to provide a boost of essential nutrients and minerals that can be absorbed more readily by the body than by taking a pill or consuming animal foods or other sources of vitamins.
Vitamin Therapy can help boost energy levels, strengthen the immune system, improve skin health, and promote overall well-being. Injectable vitamins can also lead to a more rapid and efficient uptake of the vitamins by the body, as they are absorbed directly into the bloodstream and bypass the digestive system.
When you inject vitamins, they are introduced directly into your bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. However, it is important to note that injecting vitamins should only be done under the guidance of trained professionals, as too much of certain vitamins can be harmful.
Prior to your vitamin injection appointment, disclose any medical conditions or allergies. Vitamin injections can be injected into several locations on the body, including the upper arm, thigh, or buttocks. When administering a vitamin injection, the practitioner will clean the injection site with an antiseptic solution and use a sterile needle to inject the vitamin solution into the muscle tissue.
There may be a slight degree of irritation at the injection site after your chosen treatment is administered via intramuscular IM injections. You may resume normal activities immediately. Your safety is our utmost priority. We always take down a full medical history prior to your first consultation and treatment.
Gut Health
Gut health refers to the balance of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. A healthy gut is linked to better digestion, nutrient absorption, and a strong immune system. The gut and hormones are closely connected. Gut microbes help regulate estrogen levels by producing an enzyme called beta-glucuronidase. An imbalance in the microbiome can lead to estrogen-related conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and even breast cancer.
The gut and hormones are interconnected. The gut microbiome may play a role in metabolism and weight regulation. A diet rich in fiber, prebiotics, and diverse nutrients promotes a healthy gut. Probiotics, found in fermented foods or supplements, can support a healthy gut microbiome. Consuming a variety of fiber-rich foods, fermented foods (like yogurt and sauerkraut), and staying hydrated can contribute to a healthy gut.
Skin Health
A good skincare routine includes cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting your skin from sun damage. Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping your skin of its natural oils. Follow up with a moisturizer suited to your skin type to keep your skin hydrated and supple.
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins provides your skin with the vitamins and minerals it needs to stay healthy. Foods rich in antioxidants, like berries, leafy greens, and nuts, can help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals. Staying hydrated is crucial for skin health. It helps maintain skin elasticity, prevent dryness, and supports the body’s natural detoxification processes.
Diet can significantly impact skin health. Stress can exacerbate skin conditions like acne and psoriasis. Hormonal contraceptives can influence skin conditions.
Common skin concerns for women include acne, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and dryness. Acne can be managed with a combination of topical treatments, such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, and a consistent skincare routine. Fine lines and wrinkles can be minimized with products containing retinoids, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid. Uneven skin tone can be improved with products that contain brightening ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and kojic acid.
Lifestyle Adjustments for Weight Loss
Both diet and exercise play important roles in weight loss. Various diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, low-carb diets, and intermittent fasting, have shown effectiveness for weight loss. Weight loss results can vary, but a safe and sustainable rate is generally considered to be 1-2 pounds per week.
Chronic stress can impact weight loss by influencing eating habits and hormonal balance. Lack of sleep can disrupt hormonal balance and lead to increased appetite and cravings, making weight loss more challenging. Spot reduction is a common misconception. Weight loss generally occurs uniformly across the body. Some supplements and vitamin therapy may have a modest impact on weight loss, but they are not a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise.