Can I still enroll in the program if I have over 100 lbs to lose?
Yes. Because we customize our programs, if a patient has over 100 lbs to lose, we can lengthen the time a patient remains enrolled. Our patients typically see 2-7 lbs of weight loss a week. We will adapt a program to ensure that patients are meeting their weight loss goals as quickly and safely as possible.
Can I enroll in this program before I have Bariatric surgery?
Yes. Many patients trying to lose a significant amount of weight in preparation for Bariatric Surgery find that our program is very beneficial. In fact, pre-operative weight loss makes surgery technically much easier and less risky. Many surgeons recommend our program to achieve sufficient pre-operative weight loss.
If I am on multiple medications, will I still be able to enroll in the program?
Yes, in fact this is the main reason that many patients enroll in our program. Most patients that are overweight have weight-related health issues that force them to be on a long list of medications. As you lose weight, the dosages for your medications will need to be reduced. Weight reduction without appropriate medical supervision increases chances of medication side effects and over-dosage. Our doctors will monitor and adjust your medications as you lose weight, if enrolled in our clinic program. If you are participating online, it is advised to consult with your primary care physician before and during the program.
If I am only consuming Trim 360° Nutrition Line products, will I still get all of the daily nutrients/vitamins of a regular diet?
Yes. Patients typically consume 5-7 nutrition products per day (shakes, bars, soups, smoothies, entrees, pudding, etc). These contain, at least, 100% of the FDA Recommended Daily Allowances of vitamins and minerals. Trim 360° products are created to provide patients with a simple, low calorie alternative that is high in protein and low in fat. This low calorie option is what leads to rapid, predictable weight loss.
What is the cost of the program?
We customize our programs for every individual, which is why it is difficult to give an exact estimate (patients with various weight-related health conditions require different amounts of weight loss and will remain on the program for a varying amount of time). Therefore, in order to gain the most accurate cost of the program, you may call 323.654.2020 and speak with a weight loss representative.
Does insurance cover the program?
We are providers for most insurance companies, and will bill for all office visits, EKG’s, labs, and physicals. Depending on your insurance policy, the amount that is reimbursed will vary. We encourage our patients to contact their insurance provider for specific coverage amounts.
What is the time commitment involved?
A patient’s commitment to the program is oftentimes the key to their success. Our clinic- based program requires weekly visits with each patient that last approximately one hour. The first 15-20 minutes is spent with the physician while the remaining time is spent with the dietician and/or behaviorist. Patients will receive their food at the end of each session. Our online program consists of a brief introductory phone call and optional support.
What is Trim 360°?
Trim 360° is a calorie-controlled nutrition line, specifically engineered to address the nutrition and appetite control aspects critical to weight loss. Each serving of Trim 360° products contains 15 grams of high-quality protein (20-40% more than other nutrition products on the market), which assures sense of satisfaction and eliminates hunger. Our selection consists of shakes, bars, soups, entrees, puddings, and smoothies. Each option comes in many different flavors such as mocha, strawberry, chocolate, chocolate mint, vanilla, mixed berry, and cinnamon. Entrees and soups also are available in several different flavors. (View our Catalog). A typical daily menu consists of a personally chosen combination of 5-7 meals per day.
Is this program a liquid diet?
We offer customizable meal plans that allow the patient to choose their product options. Liquid-only options are available, but not chosen as commonly as our mixed meal plan, featuring other options, such as bars, entrees, snacks, cereals, etc. Above all, in order to lose weight, we have to enable our patients to consume significantly fewer calories than they are currently eating. The only realistic way to accomplish this is to provide patients with a calorie-controlled meal options that are filling, taste great, and jumpstart weight loss.
What are the possible side effects?
Potential side effects are rare but can include fatigue, dizziness, headache, food cravings, bad breath, dry mouth, dry skin, brittle nails, hair loss, muscle cramps, frequent urination, constipation, gallstones, diarrhea, and minor illness. The key role of the physician weekly follow-ups is to monitor any occurrence of potential side effects and make alterations to the program as needed. Many treatment options are available to effectively manage most of the side effects as well as factors interfering with patients’ ability to follow the program.
Won’t I gain the weight back once I go off the diet?
Weight gain is always a possibility after completing a weight loss program. However, our goal is to instill the behavioral modifications necessary for long-term weight management. We have an excellent track record of long-term weight control by our patients. Some of the areas that we focus on to encourage weight control over time are stress management, cooking light, body image, managing relapses, eating out, and shopping smart. We also offer weekly maintenance courses to patients that have completed the program for additional support to maintain weight loss.
What makes your program different than the other weight loss programs?
Medical Weight Loss LA is different in that it offers patients a comprehensive approach to losing weight. Our program offers the guidance of a physician that knows the complexities of treating excessive weight, a registered dietician that helps patients create a meal plan that will enable them to maintain weight loss, and a behaviorist that will instill necessary lifestyle modifications for long-term weight management. Our focus is to not only help patients lose weight quickly, but to ensure that those patients keep the weight off! Our nutrition products have been studied in clinical studies and the results on weight-related conditions, initial weight loss, and long-term weight management are incomparable. If you are looking for the answer to weight loss, not just a quick fix, Medical Weight Loss L.A. is the program for you!
Are there pills or injections involved?
Our physicians believe in giving patients the tools necessary to lose weight. We offer no injections or miracle pills (unless you have a laboratory-proven vitamin deficiency). In order for weight loss to be sustained over time, there are lifestyle modifications that MUST be implemented. Pills and injections offer no such tools; therefore, weight loss is rarely maintained. If during the initial stages of the program patients experience hunger, appetite suppressants may be prescribed; however, a physician consultation will determine if these are necessary and/or appropriate.
Won’t I be hungry?
Our program utilizes the philosophy of 7 meals a day. When patients are on Trim 360°, plan, they consume 7 meals a day, eating every 3 hours. Each meal contains approximately 15g of protein, which results in sense of satisfaction and lasting fullness. This approach teaches patients to eat on a schedule as opposed to hunger, which typically leads to consuming fewer calories. Our nutrition plan provides patients with 100% of all necessary daily vitamins and nutrients. Hunger is rarely a concern, but if hunger is experienced, we offer 2 solutions. Patients may be placed on appetite suppressants or given additional food servings.
How much weight will I be able to lose on this program?
Weight loss on the program varies; however, typically, patients see an average weekly weight loss of 2-7 lbs. Average weight loss within our clinic is 30-60 lbs. Along with weight loss, additional benefits are decreased blood pressure, decreased cholesterol, decrease in blood glucose, decrease in sleep apnea and reduced/eliminated arthritis and joint pain.
Are the meal options tasty and will they satisfy me?
Patients are very satisfied with the variety and choices offered with our Trim 360° Nutrition Line. We offer a wide assortment of meal options and flavors to meet the individual tastes and preferences of all patients. To enhance the flavor of the shakes and soups, natural extracts may be added, and we encourage you to check out Healthy Recipes, our guide to simple and delicious meal variations! For patients with lactose intolerance, we offer a lactose free option.
How many calories will I be consuming?
The calorie intake will vary depending on which program is most appropriate for you. Calorie levels range from 800-1800, depending on a patient’s goals and current Body Mass Index. We will help you choose a program that ensures simple, predictable weight loss in a very quick timeframe. Because of the unique nature of our nutrition products, we are able to place our patients on a program that satisfies all daily nutritional requirements while still maintaining a low calorie diet.