Comprehensive Medical Weight Loss in Alamosa & Denver
Are you one of the millions of adults struggling with weight management? It's a challenge faced by many, but with the right guidance and support, achieving your weight loss goals is entirely possible. At Defiance Health, we understand the complexities of weight management and offer comprehensive medical weight loss programs tailored to your unique needs. In this blog, we'll delve into what constitutes a comprehensive medical weight loss program as endorsed by leading obesity medicine organizations, discuss medications suitable for weight loss, and highlight the expertise of our clinic in this specialized field.
Understanding Comprehensive Medical Weight Loss Programs
When it comes to addressing weight management, a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn't work. That's why comprehensive medical weight loss programs are crucial. These programs take a holistic approach, considering factors such as medical history, lifestyle, and individual goals to develop personalized plans for each patient.
The cornerstone of a comprehensive medical weight loss program is a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals. This team may include Physicians, Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners, as well as dietitians, counselors, health coaches, psychologists, fitness specialists and exercise physiologists, all working together to provide tailored care and support throughout your weight loss journey.
Key components of a comprehensive program may include:
Medical Evaluation: A thorough medical evaluation is essential to assess your current health status, identify any underlying medical conditions that may impact weight loss, and determine the most appropriate course of action.
Nutritional Counseling: Proper nutrition is fundamental to successful weight loss. A health coach or registered dietitian can provide personalized dietary guidance, helping you make healthier food choices and develop sustainable eating habits.
Physical Activity: Regular physical activity is essential for both weight loss and overall health. An experienced health & fitness coach can design a safe and effective exercise program tailored to your fitness level and goals.
Medication Management: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to aid weight loss. Not all of our patients who have been successful with weight loss have used medications. These medications work in various ways, such as reducing appetite, increasing feelings of fullness, or altering the absorption of nutrients. Phentermine has been used for many years to assist with increased appetite and increase activity levels. Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are currently the leading medications used to achieve successful weight loss. Injections of Semaglutide or Tirzepatide are most common, but oral and sublingual forms are also becoming available.
Behavioral Therapy: Changing behaviors and habits is crucial for long-term weight management. Behavioral therapy techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help you address underlying issues related to eating patterns and develop strategies to overcome obstacles to weight loss. Your Defiance Health provider may refer you for these therapies to ensure that you are well supported by a team of experts.
Medications for Weight Loss: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Phentermine
Among the medications used for weight loss currently, GLP-1 receptor agonists and phentermine are two of the most commonly prescribed.
GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as liraglutide (Saxenda), semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), & tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) work by mimicking the effects of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). These medications help regulate appetite, promote feelings of fullness, and may also have beneficial effects on blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity. GLP-1 receptor agonists are typically administered by injection and are suitable for individuals with obesity or overweight who have failed to achieve weight loss through diet and exercise alone.
Phentermine is a stimulant medication that works by suppressing appetite and increasing energy expenditure. It is approved for short-term use (up to 12 weeks) as part of a comprehensive weight loss program, but can be used longer (off-label) when appropriate. Phentermine is most effective when combined with dietary changes and increased physical activity.
Why Choose Defiance Health for Your Weight Loss Journey?
At Defiance Health, we specialize in medical weight loss, hormones, wellness and aesthetic services, offering a comprehensive approach to help you look and feel your best. What sets us apart from the crowd is that our team is committed & experienced at providing personalized, evidence-based treatment tailored to your needs.
With our Team of healthcare professionals, state-of-the-art technology, and proven track record of success, you can trust us to support you every step of the way on your weight loss journey. Don't let excess weight hold you back any longer—schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight requires more than just willpower—it requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying factors contributing to weight gain. With the guidance of a specialized medical weight loss program and the support of a knowledgeable healthcare team, you can achieve lasting success in your weight loss journey. Choose Defiance Health for expert care and personalized support every step of the way.