Erica - HER LIFE Magazine

“The focus is onre-learning how tochoose healthy foods.”Physician’s Weight Clinic is no ordinary weight loss center. Firstof all, when patients come into the office, noticeably absent is themedical office feel. Instead, it presents with a comforting spa-like ambiance.Next, patients won’t be inundated with a myriad of products topurchase. Instead, the focus is on a custom-made plan, incorporatingpersonal goals, using real food, and working around each individual’slifestyle.“This is not a diet where you have to eat pre-packaged foods,”noted Wendy. “You can still go out to eat and have a good meal. Youjust learn to choose foods differently so as not to revert to those old habitsthat contributed to your weight gain in the first place. Once peoplebegin to lose weight, they begin to feel better, and they are naturallyinclined to continue with this subtle but effective shift in their lives.”Education is a key component of the plan.“The focus is on re-learning how to choose healthy foods,” emphasizedWendy. “There is a huge learning curve involved at first, butyou just have to be patient with yourself. You are not alone, though,and our staff is very encouraging and knowledgeable.”Education is one of the main ingredients at Physician’s WeightClinic.“It’s amazing how much people don’t know when it comes toreading labels on products,” said Wendy. “That is why we endeavorto focus greatly on nutritional education. Of course, exercise is also ahuge part of the plan, as well.”When patients first consult with Wendy and her staff, they aretested for body fat percentage; a complete medical history is taken; anda physical is given by the doctor. Blood pressure and weight are monitoredon a weekly basis. While the staff is there to help as much asneeded, accountability on the patient’s part is key. They have to wantto make the change and desire to learn how to change their lifestyle,incorporate exercise, and refocus their efforts on a fit and healthierbody and way of life.“We have specific diets that incorporate all food groups,” saidWendy. “There is no calorie counting or carb counting on these plans.The average weight loss is about a half pound a day when patientsstick to the plan, although many will lose up to four pounds in the firstweek, primarily from water weight.”Patients are also provided with prescription appetite suppressantsas needed. Also available is an HcG protocol that can be used as astand-alone option or as part of a custom-made program.While losing weight might seem like something simply related tocosmetic reasons, the trend now is to do this as a preventative measure,with good health remaining thenumber one goal.“For us, the key to successfor our patients is about the relationshipswe build with them;the fact that we use real foods;and the focus on a new lifestylealong with the right amount ofexercise,” stated Wendy. “Youcan still enjoy your life.” ■For more information, call209-333-3750 or visit them onlineat www.lodiweightloss.com.HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 21