Master your next grocery store visit with tips from Medical Weight Loss Clinic

We’ve all been advised to stay away from the grocery store when we’re hungry. But we wondered, what other words of wisdom work for Medical Weight Loss Clinic patients who are working toward their goals?

Medical Weight Loss Clinic gives you the tips you need to grocery shop for a healthier you.

Sharon Barksdale, manager at the Southfield location of Medical Weight Loss Clinic, understands how important shopping truly is for patients. She and her staff work hard to help patients prepare for success.

Since all Medical Weight Loss Clinic programs rely on cooking real food and preparing ingredients in advance, that trip to the grocery store is perhaps the most important step.

It can be a daunting one, too.

“Carry your meal plan to the grocery store,” Sharon suggests. “Make a conscious effort to shop healthy.”

She and her team are available to help. They will sit and talk with a patient to help plan out meals for the day – even discussing the steps it will take to make those meals. Sharon and her staff provide a Program Education Class to help patients get acquainted with the kinds of meals and recipes that are best suited to their own health and nutritional needs.

And then comes the recipe inspiration. There’s plenty of it here, according to Sharon.

Medical Weight Loss Clinic patients often use MWLC.com as a resource for recipes and ideas. In Southfield, they keep a book of recipe ideas at the front desk for patients to review at any visit.

When it comes time to head to the grocery store, she shares the following tips:

·      Try not to grocery shop hungry

·      Plan ahead an take a list

·      Meal prep so you always have the ingredients to make something healthy at hand

·      Buy in bulk to save time and money

·      Remember that sometimes frozen food lasts longer than fresh

For patient who struggle with cravings or are tempted to buy items that aren’t on their individualized plan, Sharon gave this: “Everything takes time. Modify a recipe if you can't resist making it. Avoid the sweets, the deli and chip aisles.”

Want to learn more? We are here to give you the support and tips you need to reach those healthy goals.. Schedule your free consultation today at MWLC.com.

This couple found that losing weight is better together

When Sierra Evans got tired of fad diets, she Googled weight loss facilities where she could check in and gain accountability. She got more accountability than she expected when her husband, Michael, overheard her scheduling her consultation with Medical Weight Loss Clinic and asked to make him one too.

A year later, they are down a combined 83 pounds and say doing the program together was key to their success.

Michael and Sierra Evans have lost a combined 83 pounds with Medical Weight Loss Clinic. They are on the program together.

“Being able to go through the program with Michael made it so much easier,” says 37-year-old Sierra. “I had an in-house accountability partner and motivator.”

Sierra is now focused on maintaining her weight and toning, while Michael, 32, works to drop his last 10 pounds, to get to 220 pounds.

The pair joined our Southfield clinic and were put on the same program, which Sierra says was helpful because she could prep the same meals for both of them.

With expertise from clinic staff and support from one another, Michael and Sierra feel like they’ve made lasting changes. Prior to joining MWLC, Sierra tried diets that didn’t stick, “so I would gain the weight right back,” she says. While Michael says, “Prior to joining I could feel myself gaining weight but didn’t think I could actually do something about it. My weight loss experience was unorganized. I was just going to the gym with no change of eating habits.”

 Now, they have tools and knowledge about healthy eating that will help them sustain their weight loss, and they continue to visit their clinic weekly for maintenance support.

“The Medical Weight Loss journey can be very rewarding doing it with a partner,” Michael says. “I wouldn’t have wanted to do it any other way.”

If you’re ready to learn more about how our customized programs can help you achieve lasting weight loss success solo or with a buddy, schedule your free consultation at MWLC.com.

WATCH: Make this super bowl of Buffalo Dip in time for the Big Game

Eating healthy is something we specialize in at Medical Weight Loss Clinic. We know it can sometimes be challenging to stick to a healthy diet.

Aaron Centofanti, clinic manager at our Brighton location, works with patients who are looking for inspiration when it comes to a daily menu.

“Patients at the clinic will tell me that foods are getting boring,” he says. “‘They’re not really challenging my palate. They’re not exciting in any way.’ So how do we fix that?

Aaron says it comes down to three things:

·      Add more color

·      Add more texture

·      Add more flavor

As we all prepare to gather and celebrate the Super Bowl this Feb. 9, it’s an ideal time to try out Aaron’s advice and prepare party snacks that also happen to be healthy - with plenty of flavor, color and texture. Chips and dip top our go-to party foods, so he found a way to make them delicious and healthier.

Aaron Centofanti shared his party snack tips with Fox 2 Detroit.

“You can make a very flavorful Buffalo Dip without all the sodium or salt,” he says, while sharing his tips on Fox 2 Detroit recently.

His recipe includes plenty of ingredients you might already have at home. It can be made with either a base of Cottage Cheese or a base of lean, cooked and shredded Chicken Breast.

Add your choice of those two proteins to a bowl and mix in:

·      2 teaspoons of Tabasco sauce

·      A dash of Fiesta Seasoning

·      ½ teaspoon of Garlic Powder

·      ½ teaspoon of Onion Powder

·      Ground Black Pepper – to taste

Then fold in a teaspoon of Fat Free Blue Cheese Dressing and the dip is ready to serve. It’s a flavorful dip for fresh cut vegetables.

Aaron suggests toasting up some low fat tortilla chips in the oven. Pre-heat the oven to 300 degrees. Slice a low fat tortilla into triangles and place them on a baking sheet. Spray them lightly with Pam cooking spray and season the chips with sodium-free seasonings like Garlic Herb or Southwest seasoning. Then simply bake for about 10 minutes.

 Adding colorful fruit trays or checking out Medical Weight Loss Clinic recipes and supplements are also a great way to add to the healthy options at any social gathering.

Want to learn more? We are here to help you reach your fitness goals. Schedule your free consultation today at MWLC.com.

Patients tell us how great it feels to live at a healthy weight

Don’t wait to feel your very best. Hear what our patients say about Medical Weight Loss Clinic and our personalized health programs.

With a healthy goal in sight, it only takes a personalized plan and support to reach it. No one knows that better than the patients we see every day at Medical Weight Loss Clinic.

This job comes with a lot of exciting wins. We love to see how our patients react as they progress, reach their goal or even learn how to maintain a healthier lifestyle.

We’ve compiled these top seven statements – it’s what we hear from patients at those milestone moments:

1.    “It was the best decision I made” – Heather Kehoe of Shelby Township, Mich. knew she had to lose weight when hiking felt difficult. Like so many of our patients, she came in for a consultation and never turned back.

2.    “Medical Weight Loss Clinic is a good investment,” – Chris Clark has lost more than 50 pounds over about 4 years with personalized support from the staff at our Rochester Hills, Michigan location. He calls himself a member for life. “

3.    “I never had the kind of success doing anything else that I did with Medical Weight Loss Clinic.” – Cindy Hayes Faubert of Hastings, Mich. lost 50 pounds and has kept it off for 4 years and running. It just took the right kind of personalized program to get her back to her high school weight.

4.    “They were there every step of the way…teaching me about food, what kinds of food to eat and what time of day to eat them. I needed that accountability.” – Amy Rummelt lost 80 pounds with the support of our Medical Weight Loss Clinic staff in Grandville. When she noticed the scale began to creep back up, she returned and has lost 47 pounds on a new program.

5.    “I didn’t think someone my age could lose the weight. I thought it was always going to be something I would deal with. I feel a lot younger. I'm doing a lot more and it just feels wonderful.” – Anne DeHaan, 64, lives in Dexter, Mich. She lost 107 pounds and those feelings of doubt disappeared.

6.    “I was a little skeptical at first because the amount and volume of food I was eating and, lo and behold, four months later, I'm down 30 pounds. And I haven't felt this good since college” – Adam Scheinfield of Frankin, Mich. We hear this a lot. Our patients find they can fit into closes they held onto from college or high school. Anything is possible with the right program.

7.    I have so much more energy. I sleep better. I just feel good in my clothes again.” – Heather Kehoe of Shelby Township, Mich. lost 32 pounds on her program and has kept it off for a year. Now, she feels unstoppable.

Don’t wait to feel this good.

A personalized program is waiting for you and our professional staff know just how to help you navigate the challenges so you, too, can reach your health goals. Schedule your free consultation today at MWLC.com.

Refocus on your health with Medical Weight Loss Clinic

Anne Kolbert knows there’s something special about this time of year at Medical Weight Loss Clinic.

“The new year is the perfect time to restart healthy habits,” she says. “It’s about new beginnings; new resolutions and it’s a new chance to reach your goal weight.”

Just getting started or restarted? We’re here to support you to help reach those goals.

Anne is a manager at the Troy location of Medical Weight Loss Clinic. She and her team are ready to welcome new and existing patients to make the most of 2025. After the overindulgence of the holiday season, these early months are an ideal time for us all to get back to the healthy basics.

For Anne, that means trying out new recipes at MWLC.com, planning ahead when you’re going to eat at a restaurant and keeping a daily food journal to track supplement, meals, daily protein and water intake.

Noura Kanouna, medical assistant at the Troy clinic agrees.

“Daily visits with your consultants, as well as filling out your food journal will allow you to be accountable and help us to counsel you as well,” she says.

Noura suggests patients should come in three times a week to recommit to a healthy personalized program. She and Anne shared the following tips to keep in mind between those visits:

• Measuring and weighing out foods can prevent overeating.

• Eating a variety of protein, fruits, vegetables and starches can keep a diet interesting and beneficial for our health.

• Using apps to track foods online will help you make mindful eating choices.

• Making sure to have a working food scale and measure and weigh portions will avoid going off track.

Imagine how much you can achieve by next year?

Now is the time to recommit to your weight loss journey. We are here to help. Schedule your free consultation today at MWLC.com.

Medical Weight Loss Clinic patients start the new year with RE3, a new supplement for better health

Medical Weight Loss Clinic staff and patients are kicking off 2025 with a brand new product. It’s called RE3, which stands for Release, Reduce and Refine. Already, a few patients are finding it helpful.

When your digestive system is unbalanced, feeling of bloating, fatigue and constipation can be a concern. Medical Weight Loss Clinic patients are trying a new pill, RE3, to ease those symptoms and support intestinal health.

“RE3 is a gentle and fast acting supplement that releases the layers of build-up in the colon for an overall feeling of well-being,” said Kelly Smith, director of operations and Medical Weight Loss Clinic. “With pollution and harmful additives everywhere, our gut can have a lot of toxic build up. This plays a negative role on our colon and affects digestion and overall health.”

Shelly Kwiatkowski has been a patient at the Ann Arbor location of Medical Weight Loss Clinic for a year. She’s been taking RE3 for about three weeks and said it took only days to feel the benefits on her digestion.

“It seems to really regulate me,” Shelly says. She has reached her goal weight, losing more than 42 pounds with Medical Weight Loss Clinic. Still, Shelly plans to continue taking the medication and would recommend it to anyone else struggling.

The kind of support patients see from RE3 includes enhanced absorption of proteins and vitamins. Kelly adds that this is necessary for both physical and mental health. It’s an improvement patients can feel right away.

“People tend to feel lighter when their colon is flushed,” she says. “This helps eliminate feelings of bloat.”

Felecia Heard also began taking RE3 in mid-December 2024 due to concerns about bloating. Within the first two weeks, she experienced a reduction in her symptoms. While she’s recently seen a resurgence, Felecia says she’ll continue to monitor how she’s feeling over the next month.

“I recommend consuming ample water to maximize the product’s benefits,” Felecia adds. She has lost more than 35 pounds with Medical Weight Loss Clinic’s Fast Track 1.0 plan and believes “consistency is key” to achieving her goal. 

Jordan Stewart, director of special projects at Medical Weight Loss Clinic, has a keen understanding of all the products and supplements available to help patients. She says RE3 can offer six important benefits to those experiencing digestive symptoms:

•             Reduces the accumulation of waste

•             Reduces bloating

•             Reduces inflammation

•             Patients report they feel lighter

•             It contributed to good intestinal health

•             Reduces constipation 

“The body becomes unable to perform daily activities when the colon is backed up with toxic material,” Kelly adds. “When free of this material, the colon can properly process foods and help us to stay feeling full longer.”

Are you interested in trying RE3 for yourself? Medical Weight Loss Clinic professionals are available to support your healthy journey today. Schedule your free consultation with us today at MWLC.com.

Start the New Year on a healthy path with help from Medical Weight Loss Clinic

As the New Year begins, many of us go right to work setting fresh goals, with health and weight loss often topping the list. Monifa Khorshid, our Canton clinic manager at Medical Weight Loss Clinic, sees it regularly.

It’s a new year and Medical Weight Loss Clinic can help motivate you to make it the best one yet.

She offers her insight into how to turn our hopes and resolutions into long-term success.

“When a new patient comes in with New Year’s weight loss goals, as a weight loss coach, we start by focusing on small, sustainable lifestyle changes rather than drastic diets,” Monifa explains. “We emphasize the importance of setting realistic, measurable goals and exploring their current eating and exercise habits to identify areas for improvement.

Monifa Khorshid, Canton clinic manager at Medical Weight Loss Clinic, is ready to help you start the new year off in the healthiest way possible. Find out how.

“This helps them build a healthy foundation for long-term success without feeling overwhelmed by drastic changes.”

According to Monifa, the key to success lies in understanding your current daily habits. “Once you’ve decided to lose weight, it’s crucial to evaluate your energy-in, or diet, and energy-out, or movement.”

Here are Monifa's tips for starting your weight loss journey:

1. Follow a Healthy Eating Plan

2. Take Baby Steps

3. Set Realistic Goals

4. Reward, Don’t Punish

5. Get a Buddy

6. Track Your Meals

7. Add Exercise

8. Seek guidance from a weight loss coach to stay accountable and motivated

Monifa reminds us that the New Year provides a psychological "clean slate" that encourages positive changes. Let’s make the most of it.

"It's an opportunity to focus on a 'new you' with fresh goals and a renewed sense of purpose," she says.

Are you looking for a fresh start to your healthy program? Medical Weight Loss Clinic professionals can help. Schedule your free consultation with us today at MWLC.com.

Give the gift of fitness with Medical Weight Loss Clinic

Whether you’re a Medical Weight Loss Clinic patient seeking gift ideas for yourself or a loved one looking for thoughtful, health-focused presents, we’ve got you covered. Ashley Bronson of our Southgate clinic shares her top holiday gift suggestions and tips to support loved ones in achieving their weight loss goals this season.

Fitness bands make a great gift for that healthy friend on your holiday list.

“Holiday gifts that prioritize health and wellness can be incredibly meaningful for patients on a weight loss or health journey,” Ashley says. “For example, high-quality meal prep tools like portion-controlled containers or an air fryer can make it easier to maintain healthy eating habits.”

She also recommends a high-quality water bottle with built-in tracking features that can encourage adequate hydration throughout the day -  which is essential to weight loss.

Along with proper diet and nutrition, building muscle is crucial for weight management and metabolic health, Ashley says. This means movement and strength training are key to weight loss and maintenance.

To support strength training, Ashley recommends a gift of adjustable dumbbells. Resistance bands are another useful, effective option that cost less and also make a great stocking stuffer.

Wearable fitness trackers make great gifts to encourage necessary movement.

“They provide insights into daily activity levels, heart rate, and sleep quality, helping patients stay motivated and on track with their goals,” Ashley says.

And if you’re looking for a gift idea for someone focused on mindfulness, she recommends a subscription to a meditation app or a yoga mat with alignment guides that can promote stress reduction and mental well-being.

Support Beyond Gifts

While purchasing gifts that help a loved one stay focused on their weight loss and health goals are worthwhile, Ashley says free gestures also go a long way.

“Friends and family can offer tremendous support around the holidays by creating an environment that encourages healthy choices,” she says. “This could include preparing or serving nutritious meals during gatherings, avoiding excessive focus on food, and engaging in active traditions like family walks.”

She also says it’s helpful to express encouragement and celebrate non-scale victories like improved energy or fitness, rather than focusing solely on weight.

“Supporting MWLC patients with empathy and understanding can make all the difference in their success.”

Prioritizing Health and Wellness During the Holidays

Ashley notes that the holiday season can be a challenging time for those focusing on their health goals, but it’s also an opportunity to embrace balance and self-care.

She says MWLC patients should feel empowered to set boundaries and prioritize their well-being. This might mean politely declining a second serving or carving out time for physical activity.

“Remember, the journey to better health is not about perfection but about progress and sustainability.”

For more tips on meeting your health and fitness goals this holiday season or to jumpstart your weight loss journey, schedule your free consultation with us today at MWLC.com.

Face the holidays stress-free with Medical Weight Loss Clinic

Each year the holiday season arrives filled with light, joy and family gatherings. Each year, the busyness of the season can also bring its share of stressful situations.

For Medical Weight Loss Clinic patients working hard to manage healthy eating and activities year-round, the holidays can pose an extra challenge. The stress of having more to accomplish can stand in the way of reaching our healthy goals.

Sarah St. John, manager at the Shelby Township location, can spot this kind of challenge and help patients navigate it with ease.

Stay stress-free and make your health-related wishes come true this season with Medical Weight Loss Clinic.

“This time of year, our cortisol levels rise,” she said. “Stress leads to binge eating. It leads to brain fog or a lack of focus. We can find it harder to focus on a good nutrition and exercise routine.”

It calls for a change in mindset. Sarah says that this time of year just maintaining our weight is considered a victory.

“The holidays are a handful of days,” she reminds us, “not months long.”

To help maintain progress toward a healthy goal, consider bringing a healthy dish to pass, she says. Keep portion sizes top-of-mind. And perhaps most important, Sarah suggests that patients “always eat before you go to a gathering - so you aren't hungry.”

The same food preparation and planning that works year-round will be crucial for holiday crunch time. Sarah says prepping meals ahead can relieve a lot of stress. She reminds patients that there’s a good reason to keep those healthy foods around.

“Eating healthier gives you more energy,” she says. “A poor diet or poor hydration will make you feel sluggish. Having a routine helps manage stress. ”

Plus – it feels great to know you look and feel comfortable in the outfit you choose to wear to a holiday gathering. That can be a motivating factor to stick with your personalized program.

As the candles are lit, the stockings are hung or the minutes count down to a brand new year, take a moment to step back and give yourself a little grace, too.

“Don't put so much pressure on yourself,” Sarah says. “Have realistic goals.”

Are you looking for help to set and reach those goals? Medical Weight Loss Clinic professionals are here. Schedule your free consultation with us today at MWLC.com.

Have a festive holiday with Medical Weight Loss Clinic healthy food swaps

The holidays are here and with them comes the temptation of sugary-sweet treats, warm-baked desserts and the very real risk of over-indulging.

Find some holiday food swaps and healthy ingredients to make this the best season ever.

Abby Pignatelli, a consultant at the Saginaw location of Medical Weight Loss Clinic, encourages patients to stay on their healthy program. The holidays are no exception.

“People walk into Medical Weight Loss Clinic for a reason,” she says. “Especially during the holidays when there’s a ton of food and desserts around, giving our patients options is important. No one should miss out on holiday fun, or food!”

Abby often suggests patients check out the Medical Weight Loss Clinic website for food inspiration. Holiday recipes can also be found there.

“They can be a huge help,” she says.

This season, the Medical Weight Loss Clinic Holiday Cookbook is back. It is a special collection of recipes that anyone can access and try this season. There’s another good reason to do so. For each download, Medical Weight Loss Clinic will donate $1 to Gleaners Community Food Bank.

Whether you’re looking for recipes or adapting traditional holiday foods at home, what you make these dishes with makes a difference. When it comes to some of the best ingredients to keep around, Abby says low sodium seasonings top her list. Look for brands like McCormick, Kinders and Tony Chachere’s – to add a kick to your holiday meal without adding too much salt.

She’s also a fan of adding in 1 percent cottage cheese to recipes that call for a creamy flavor or thicker consistency. This has an added bonus of protein, too.

“I always recommend mixing 1 percent cottage cheese with the Medical Weight Loss Clinic Cheesecake supplement for some extra protein,” Abby says. “It makes a great dessert option. There’s no missing out on the dessert fun.”

Headed to a party – or planning one at home?

Abby has a recipe for that. She makes a festive Apple Cinnamon Dip. It’s simply a blend of one Medical Weight Loss Clinic Cheesecake Nutritional Supplement with one Cinnamon Swirl Pudding Shake Nutritional Supplement and a dash of cinnamon. Mix it all together and dip in slices from one small apple to enjoy. 

“It’s important to stay on program, even more so during the holidays,” Abby says. “We are here to help hold you accountable.”

Who is ready to lose, rather than gain weight this season? Sign up for a free consultation today at mwlc.com.

Ask a Doctor: How does metabolism change as we age

If you swear it was easier to lose weight in your 20s than it is now, you’re not imagining it. Thanks to changes in our metabolism and decreased activity as we age, it becomes easier to gain weight and more challenging to drop it.

We asked Medical Weight Loss Clinic Medical Director Dr. David Rabens about what happens with our metabolism as we get older.

Resistance training is a key to getting and staying fit, at any age.

“The changes that occur involve our food intake, our energy expenditure, our lean body muscle mass, our healthy subcutaneous fat stores and our visceral fat stores,” Dr. Rabens says. “As we age, it gets harder to lose weight because of the metabolic changes that take place in our bodies, the energy consumption and expenditure.”

He explains that, as we age, adipose tissue — known as body fat — increases, lean muscle mass decreases and we typically eat more food and exercise less. Hormone levels change. The power house of our cells, the mitochondria, do not function as well. This can all contribute to difficulty losing weight. 

Dr. Rabens says it’s possible to overcome these changes, lose weight and encourage longevity. It takes caloric restriction and exercise.

“It has been shown that caloric restriction does improve longevity,” he says. “The mainstay of weight loss is caloric restriction and exercise. What most people fail to realize is that our energy expenditure is constantly changing. It lowers with age starting in your 30s and progressively decreases in your 60s. This means you burn fewer calories.”

Dr. Rabens says most patients are surprised to learn that when you lose weight, you also burn fewer calories.

“If you then stop limiting your caloric intake, you are consuming more calories than you burn. You will gain your weight back unless you increase your energy expenditure,” he says.

This means it’s important to exercise to maintain weight loss and overall health.

“Resistance (strength) training is required to maintain weight loss,” Rabens says. “Ideally, one should start exercising when they start their weight loss program. It should be gradually built up to at least five days a week, but better if it is daily. Resistance training burns fat calories more efficiently than other exercise and also helps maintain or build muscle mass. Muscle mass - as well as fat mass - decreases with weight loss.”

Dr. Rabens says it’s important to counteract the muscle loss that accompanies weight loss because, as people hit their 40s, metabolic changes cause an increase in fat mass and weight, with a decrease in muscle mass. In addition to strength training, he recommends upping your protein intake, including leucine, an important amino acid that helps maintain muscle mass.

As we age, visceral fat mass — the belly fat deep in your abdomen that wraps around your organs — increases. Too much visceral fat increases your risk of diabetes, stroke and heart disease. In addition, Dr. Rabens says, there can be fat infiltrating into the muscle, which may alter strength.  

“If you are not exercising regularly by the time your diet program is over, you are playing ‘catch up,’ in maintaining your weight loss,” he says. 

For a customized program to achieve your weight loss goals no matter your age, schedule a free consultation at MWLC.com. Our experienced, dedicated staff at clinic locations throughout Michigan and Ohio is ready to offer guidance and support for your personal goals.

Commit to self-care with Medical Weight Loss Clinic this holiday season

At Medical Weight Loss Clinic, our expert staff know that starting a customized health program is about so much more than a number on a scale. Weight Loss Consultants Kari Kerzka and Noor Alhmadawi, who work at our Dearborn location, consider committing to the program an important act of self-care.

“It is a declaration that your health, well-being and happiness matter,” Kari says.

Kari Kerzka and Noor Alhmadawi, medical consultants with Medical Weight Loss Clinic, are helping our patients get ready for the holiday season.

When a patient steps into Medical Weight Loss Clinic, Noor sees it as an investment in a better future.

“Self-care is about taking the time to invest in activities that bring you closer to your best self,” she adds. “Every personalized session with a weight consultant, every meal plan crafted for your unique needs and every pound lost is a step towards a healthier, happier version of yourself.”

That doesn’t stop when the holiday season arrives.

This is a time known for its temptations — delicious treats, festive gatherings and,  often, an upheaval of routine. Don’t let those healthy habits slip. Seek out or rely on our supportive and knowledgeable staff at Medical Weight Loss Clinic.

As Kari says, “self-care doesn’t take a vacation.”

Our health needs remain the same. By sticking to personalized goals, our patients choose to start off the new year strong.

This season, Kari and Noor remind their patients to:

·      Plan ahead before attending holiday parties.

·      Keep an eye out for healthier versions of favorite dishes.

·      Practice mindful eating.

·      Find ways to stay active – like taking a brisk winter walk after a meal.

“Most importantly, give yourself grace,” says Noor. “Enjoy the holiday season without compromising your commitment to your health.”

Our patients see proof at doctor visits and in test results as they move closer to their health goals. They learn how to manage or even prevent chronic diseases. Patients reduce their risk of diabetes and hypertension and they find more energy to do the things they love. 

The self-care benefits at Medical Weight Loss Clinic are mental, as well as physical.

“Losing weight can enhance your self-esteem, improve your mood and boost overall mental clarity,” Noor says. “It reduces the burden of depression and anxiety, which often accompany a poor body image or health concerns. As patients progress, they gain a sense of accomplishment and confidence.”

Remember - real, sustainable weight loss is about making lifestyle changes that honor both body and health. Self-care reminds us we are worth the effort, and our health is worth the investment.

That rings true every day of the year.

If you’re ready to make a move toward a healthier future, reach out for a free consultation at mwlc.com

MWLC Patients Achieve Quicker Results with New Medication Support

Updated: 8/6/25

A Smarter, Faster Path to Weight Loss

Would adding a new weight loss medication to your healthy program give you the weight loss boost you’ve been looking for? Our patients are reporting great results.

For many patients at Medical Weight Loss Clinic, the addition of the weight loss medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide to our programs has been a game-changer. The combination of a personalized nutrition plan, with this medication and accountability has helped many patients who were struggling to move the scale in the right direction.

We recently spoke with three patients, Jackie, Kimberly and Carissa, to learn about their experiences with Medical Weight Loss Clinic’s program and semaglutide. Their journeys highlight the effectiveness of this combination in transforming lives.

Jackie’s Success

Jackie, who visits the Novi clinic, has struggled with her weight for most of her adult life. After trying various diets and weight loss programs, she found herself at her heaviest weight, 195 pounds, in the summer of 2023 after having her second child. With a history of gestational diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome, Jackie turned to MWLC in November 2023 for a comprehensive program that included weight loss medication.

“The compounded semaglutide has been life-changing, ,” Jackie says. “It has changed my relationship to food. I no longer crave sweets or constantly think about my next meal in the same way that I did previously.”

Now at 157 pounds, with a goal of 140 pounds, Jackie is confident in her progress. The support from MWLC’s staff, along with the meal plan emphasizing whole foods, has been crucial to her success. She has noticed a commonly-reported side effect. When the dosage increases or she eats certain foods, Jackie sometimes experiences nausea, though it hasn’t caused her concern. 

Jackie notes the the affordability of semaglutide she’s able to obtain through MWLC. Our patients pay significantly less for the medication through a compounding pharmacy than they might for Wegovy or Ozempic through their doctor and a standard pharmacy.

Kimberly’s Journey

Kimberly C., an attorney from Troy, began her weight loss journey with Medical Weight Loss Clinic in November 2023. She was frustrated with the weight gain of nearly 85 pounds that came with early menopause, starting in 2018, and the lack of results she had seen with other efforts.

With a Mediterranean cruise planned to celebrate her 50th birthday in September, Kimberly began to research medical programs that included semaglutide to help her feel her best.

“Part of my issue is I work about 60 hours a week. I don’t have time to do a lot of meal prep or make multiple meals a day,” she says. “Starting on the Fast Track program meant one small dinner meal a day, along with shakes and a bar," she said. “I was actually less hungry than before because I was getting better nutrition.”

As part of her customized program, Kimberly injects the highest dose of semaglutide available. So far, she has lost 50 pounds and aims to lose 35 more.

Carissa’s Transformation

Carissa from Farmington Hills had experienced yo-yo dieting throughout her life. After the loss of both her parents during the pandemic, she was stressed and anxious and had gained 50 pounds. Tired of wasting time and money on weight loss and dieting efforts that didn’t pay off, she turned to Medical Weight Loss Clinic in October 2023.

Within the first month of her program, Carissa lost 10 pounds, then about 3 pounds a week. That progress helped motivate her to keep going. She started the program weighing 222 pounds and is down to 142, with the goal of getting to 130.

Carissa is on the lowest dose of semaglutide as part of her program and says she believes the key to her success has been the medication combined with learning how to eat for better health.

“It hadn’t sunk in how much of a difference being on a low-carb, low-sugar, high-protein diet would make,” she says of her experience before coming to Medical Weight Loss Clinic. “At this point, I actually like the natural foods I eat more. I’m not looking forward to junk food.”

The accountability she’s gained by visiting the clinic is also crucial.

“After the pandemic, I couldn’t motivate myself anymore, so I really needed their help to keep me honest and motivated,” she says.

Faster Weight Loss at MWLC: How Medications Are Helping Patients Succeed

Carissa, Jackie and Kimberly attribute their weight loss success to the synergy between their personalized Medical Weight Loss Clinic programs and semaglutide. The medication helps control hunger, making it easier to adhere to the nutritional plans. This combination not only aids in significant weight loss but also promotes better overall health. For instance, Kimberly noticed a reduction in lower leg and foot swelling and discomfort, while Carissa reported improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels and Jackie normalized her fasting blood sugars.

Our comprehensive approach ensures that patients receive continuous support, from regular health check-ups to personalized dietary advice. This combination of semaglutide and expert guidance provides a powerful tool for those serious about losing weight and maintaining a healthier lifestyle.

“I recommend it to everybody,” Carissa says of her experience with semaglutide and a customized program. “If somebody’s really serious about losing weight, I  definitely tell people to try it, because I know it works.”
Why MWLC Now Offers Prescription Medication Support

While nutrition, education, and accountability remain the foundation of our program, clinically approved weight loss medications can offer an added boost. For eligible patients, this option provides enhanced support for appetite control, increased metabolism, and improved long-term outcomes.

Who Can Benefit from This Addition?

Medication isn’t for everyone, which is why our team of medical professionals evaluates each patient individually. If you're struggling with stubborn weight or have underlying health factors, this added support may help you break through plateaus and gain momentum.

Talk to a Weight Loss Expert Today

Interested in learning if medication-enhanced weight loss is right for you? Schedule a free consultation or visit one of our clinics to speak with an MWLC expert. Book your consultation here: MWLC.com.

Medical Weight Loss Clinic food donations do a ton of good for Gleaners

Medical Weight Loss Clinic patients and staff may spend their time focused on finding ways to lead a healthier life. At the same time, they also contribute to a healthier future for our neighbors in need.

“Since last summer, the Medical Weight Loss Clinic community—both patients and staff—has generously donated over one ton of food to Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan,” says Bob Irland, Gleaners community giving manager.

The generosity of our patients and staff - like Dahlia and Lauren at our Canton location - has helped Medical Weight Loss Clinic contribute more than 2,000 pounds of donated food to Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeast Michigan over the past year. Keep those food donations coming.

The partnership began last September when Medical Weight Loss Clinic locations became convenient drop-off sites for staff, patients and the community to donate non-perishable food items. Since then, more than 2,248 pounds of food has been collected.

For every four pounds of food Gleaners receives, the non-profit organization is able to provide three meals to a hungry neighbor. According to these estimates, the Medical Weight Loss Clinic donations equate to about 1,686 meals and counting.

At a time when  one in seven people – including one in five children – are facing food insecurity in Southeast Michigan, programs like this one are making a difference.

“Combined with (the Medical Weight Loss Clinic) holiday cookbook download donations supporting our summer Meet Up and Eat Up program, this food has been a lifeline for our mobile food distributions and local food pantry partners as we all work to meet the ongoing demand in the face of high food and housing costs,” Bob adds. “We are incredibly grateful for the awareness the Medical Weight Loss Clinic team spreads about food insecurity and the simple process they’ve created for patients to get involved. 

Fran Yee, marketing director for Medical Weight Loss Clinic, considers the partnership beneficial to all parties.

“When patients start a program with any of our 27 Medical Weight Loss Clinic locations, they will often do a pantry reset where they will remove any non-perishable goods not on plan to avoid temptation so it makes perfect sense to collect these items to be distributed to those in need,” she says. “With the help of Gleaners, we can help ensure unopened, non-perishable items are not wasted.”

Gleaners provides food to more than 400 partner soup kitchens, food pantries, shelters, schools and other agencies across the region. In 2023, Gleaners distributed more than 50 million pounds of food to neighbors in need.

But the work is far from over. In the past year, more people than ever visited Gleaners for help. The organization experienced a 30% increase in demand for its services over the previous year, mirroring increased levels of need seen at food banks across Michigan.

“We look forward to an ongoing relationship with Gleaners, especially since it impacts so many people in our community in a positive way,” Yee adds.

The time to shop your own pantry is now. Donation boxes are still available.

Bring unopened, non-perishable, labeled and shelf-stable food items today at any Medical Weight Loss Clinic location. Learn more at mwlc.com.

Find out how this Medical Weight Loss Clinic patient banished binge eating

For 49-year-old Teresa Pecoraro of Canton, adding semaglutide to her weight loss efforts has given her the freedom from binge eating she sought for years.

Translating and speaking on her behalf, Teresa’s husband Alessandro Vitali explained that she had struggled with binge eating off and on for 30 years. Then, in the fall of 2023, about a year after relocating from Italy, Teresa sought help from Medical Weight Loss Clinic in Canton. Alessandro says she specifically looked to MWLC for guidance after reading about the benefits of injectable weight loss medications like Ozempic.

After starting at 196 pounds, Teresa expects to hit her goal weight of 130 pounds within the next few months with Medical Weight Loss Clinic.

“She tried several times to lose weight in the past and she did well with some medical support but had never used semaglutide,” he says. “Semaglutide, in combination with a specific diet that has been provided, is now giving her a big improvement. She lost 60 pounds in nine months.”

Teresa has received a steady dose of semaglutide since she started taking it and says her experience has been positive. She felt a bit nauseous and tired for the first couple months, especially for the first couple days after a weekly injection, but that’s almost stopped.

“It’s not an issue,” Alessandro says. “It’s something she can manage quite well.”

After starting at 196 pounds, Teresa expects to hit her goal weight of 130 pounds within the next few months. In the past, she has struggled to stabilize her weight after meeting a goal, but feels supported by our staff and confident she will succeed.

Beyond the semaglutide, Teresa and Alessandro say the support from clinic staff when it comes to diet has been helpful as they adjust to food shopping and eating in the United States.

“She wants to mention as well that being Italian and moving to the U.S., it was not easy for us to find healthy food and keep a healthy diet,” Alessandro says. “We know how to do it in Italy but not here. There are several similar products but not the exact same. The suggestions from the clinic were really helpful.”

Grocery shopping in the United States was challenging for Medical Weight Loss Clinic patient Teresa, who moved here from Italy. She found support and helpful medication she needed.

The changes Teresa has made and experienced thanks to the combination of the semaglutide and a custom meal program from our Canton team has had real impacts on her life. In addition to the weight loss, Alessandro says Teresa’s sleep apnea has dissipated. She’s also experienced less knee pain and water retention. Thanks to these improvements to Teresa’s health, the 10-hour flights to and from Italy are much easier for her than they had been before she began her program.

To learn whether a semaglutide may be the right tool to add to your custom weight loss program with Medical Weight Loss Clinic, schedule a free consultation today at MWLC.com.

Track your progress and get healthy with Medical Weight Loss Clinic

Tracking your weight loss progress is an essential part of staying motivated and achieving your goals. Janice Jacobs, manager of our Grandville location, explains how Medical Weight Loss Clinic helps patients monitor their journey and offers advice on how to continue tracking progress at home.

Never underestimate the power of the scale when losing or maintaining your weight. Regular weigh-ins are just one way we track success at Medical Weight Loss Clinic.

“People are more likely to reach their weight loss goal when they track their progress,” Janice says.

Ways to track your weight loss include keeping a food journal, creating a weight loss chart and weighing yourself regularly. We encourage patients to visit their clinic daily for one-on-one visits that offer motivation and support too. Clinic check-ins help keep you accountable and give you the opportunity to address any challenges with our expert staff. Janet says that if you can’t make it to the clinic, phone check-ins at least once a week can help you stay on track with your plan.

For patients looking to track their progress at home, she recommends having a scale for regular weigh-ins and continuing to log progress in a journal. Journaling and weighing yourself at least three times a week are key to a successful weight loss journey.

Janet says tracking progress is motivating because it provides visible results.

“As patients lose weight and see the results, they are more likely to stay motivated and stick to their plan,” she says.

This steady feedback keeps the momentum going and can help you stay focused on your weight loss goals. For more tips and personalized support, schedule your free consultation today at MWLC.com.

Break through your weight loss plateau with Medical Weight Loss Clinic

It can be frustrating to feel successful on your weight loss journey, consistently seeing the scale going in the right direction when it suddenly comes to a screeching halt. You’ve hit the dreaded weight loss plateau. The good news is that, not only is it normal — even expected — but the team at your Medical Weight Loss Clinic has the tools and expertise to help you push through and get the scale moving again.

Overcome your weight loss plateau by following our tips at Medical Weight Loss Clinic.

What is a Weight Loss Plateau and Why Does It Happen?

MWLC Regional Manager Kami LaPerna says a weight loss plateau is when you have stuck to your MWLC program but haven't seen movement on the scale in two weeks.

“It’s not a matter of if, it’s more a matter of when,” she says. “It’s different for everybody. A lot of times after you lose your first 10-12 pounds, you’ll hit a plateau. It could last a year or month at other programs. But at MWLC, if within two weeks there hasn’t been a movement, we will implement one of our meal plan changes because we don't want someone to be stuck with that.”

This is one of the times that journaling proves key because Kami says she can skim a patient’s food journal and quickly know whether they’ve truly hit a plateau or have fallen off track a bit with their program. She notes that some patients think they hit a plateau, but journaling shows that they may actually be eating off plan, or thrown off their healthy habits by vacations and special events.

“By tracking what you eat and when, we can at a glance make quick changes if we need to,” she says. 

If your MWLC team does establish that you’ve been following your program and have truly hit a weight loss plateau, don’t panic.

“A weight loss plateau is frustrating but common as well,” Kami says. “That’s what patients need to understand. It’s not something they’re doing wrong; it’s that they’re doing all the right things and that’s how they got to the plateau.”

She says that you will likely see significant weight loss in the first weeks of your program, but as your body gets used to your new behaviors and habits, including eating a healthier, lower calorie diet, it will stop giving you results. This can happen more than once over the course of your weight loss journey.

“That’s when I always say we need to shock your system again.” Kami says.

How to Overcome a Weight Loss Plateau

MWLC programs are custom built around a patient’s unique circumstances and goals. Kami says this means they are created to allow room for change when those plateaus occur. Depending on which program you’re on, there are meal plan changes and modifications to jumpstart your metabolism and break through the weight loss plateaus. This might mean cutting your calorie intake for a couple days, adjusting your program overall or suggesting workout changes, among other options.

“During a plateau, we focus on whether we can increase your activity, if you drink enough water, and if you are getting enough sleep at night. Tracking and journals are such essential tools when it comes to weight loss because it paints a picture. We can tell when and what you’re consuming and what changes we can make. 

Sometimes, all it takes are simple changes.

“People often eat the same thing over and over. That might be convenient for weight loss, but that can cause a weight loss plateau as well because your body is used to eating the same thing,” Kami says. “Something as simple as changing up the types of food you’re eating can break the plateau.”

She adds that if you are someone who goes for walks regularly, even changing your route can make a difference.

“It’s like tricking your brain into knowing you’re doing new things.”

Kami says it’s crucial to stay positive when you hit a plateau.  

“We can be so negative and hard on ourselves,” she says. “But your body truly responds to what you’re saying and how you’re thinking about yourself, so use positive words and affirmations. I don’t want people to give up on their long-term goals.”

She also cautions against getting discouraged by a weight loss plateau and thinking that’s just the weight your body wants to be.  

“I don’t want people to do that,” she says. “We remind them that your body has gotten comfortable and that’s where we need to help.” 

Kami and the rest of the MWLC clinic staff are ready to help with motivation and solutions that will work best for you. And while checking in on the scale is an important part of your program, she stresses that it’s not the only component to weight loss success. 

“You will not walk around with a scale. You will walk around in your skin and clothing. Focus on things like how much better you feel, how much better your clothes are fitting, how you’re sleeping at night. Don’t narrow your weight loss success to a number on a scale because that can be very defeating.”

If you are ready to jumpstart your weight loss journey with a knowledgeable team that will help you achieve your goals and break through any challenges, schedule your free consultation with Medical Weight Loss Clinic now at MWLC.com.

Medical Weight Loss Clinic patients can try a sunny new supplement this month

We’ll let you in on a little secret. Our patients have access to delicious and healthy supplements with every visit to one of our clinic locations.

Medical Weight Loss Clinic nutritional supplements make it easier to meet your healthy goals. Many of the tried-and-true tested products can be purchased online in our shop. But every so often, something new comes along that can only be found at our clinics.

Imagine an Orange Creamsicle shake that was actually good for you? You don’t have to imagine it; just stop by your local Medical Weight Loss Clinic to find out more about supplements like these.

That’s the case with Orange Creamsicle, the newest flavor of our pudding or shake supplement. It’s a tasty blend of sweet and tart oranges with a creamsicle twist.  

“If you’re a fan of Orange Creamsicle ice cream bars or Orange Julius smoothies, this is the product for you!” said Jordan Stewart at Medical Weight Loss Clinic. “Our Orange Creamsicle supplement can be easily made into a rich smoothie or a creamy pudding.” 

Like many Medical Weight Loss Clinic nutritional supplements, it comes with 15 grams of high quality protein and is fortified with essential vitamins and nutrients. What tastes like dessert can actually support your overall health and wellness. The Orange Creamsicle  pudding or shake has only 100 calories.

Add this high-quality supplement to a customized program to reach your health goals. Contact us at Medical Weight Loss Clinic today and sign up for a free consultation at mwlc.com.

Eating in Season with Medical Weight Loss Clinic

Late summer and early fall offer the perfect chance to take advantage of fresh and vibrant produce. To help you make the most of in-season fruits and vegetables, we spoke with Renee Hunter, manager at the Dearborn Medical Weight Loss Clinic. She shared some of her favorite fresh ingredients and tips for incorporating them into your healthy eating routine.

Renee's top picks for seasonal fruits include grapes, apples, oranges, pears, and bananas. When it comes to vegetables, she loves yams and beets.

Grapes are just one of our favorite summer foods to eat in-season.

“These veggies are quick to prepare and can be baked in an air fryer or oven in no time, usually less than 30 minutes,” she says. “They make easy side dishes for the entire family and are even safe for our fur babies.”

When you take advantage of eating in-season produce, consider the variety of ways you may be able to prepare it.

“Beets, for example, can be eaten raw or cooked, used in juices or added to shakes with our MWLC supplements,” Renee says. “Sweet potatoes or yams are incredibly versatile — they can be used in pancakes, soups, shakes, and salads.”

Quick Recipes for Hot Weather

Renee said patients love to share tips and cooking ideas that include MWLC supplements.

One popular late summer recipe uses our chicken soup mix as a batter for air-fried chicken. To make it, you’ll need 6 ounces of boneless, skinless chicken strips, seasoned to your liking (skip the salt) and covered with one egg wash and dry chicken soup mix. Spray with Pam and place it in the air fryer until cooked, which will take less than 20 minutes. Voila!

A recipe Renee recommends for when you’re craving something sweet and don’t want to turn on the oven is the No Bake Cookies.

It's a quick and easy treat. Just mix one pack of chocolate pudding, one pack of our oatmeal supplement and one bar of peanut butter crunch, roll into balls to make cookies then refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Don’t forget to visit the many recipes available on our website. It’s simple to search for an ingredient you want to use, like Chicken, or search under an eating category, like Vegetarian, for recipe inspiration anytime. For more personalized recipes, our knowledgeable staff is always ready to share ideas, customize a recipe or provide suitable substitutions to fit a patients’ program.

Are you looking to reach your health goals? Contact us for a free consultation at MWLC.com.

Lose weight before summer ends with Medical Weight Loss Clinic

Imagine looking and feeling your best for this year’s holiday parties or that winter beach vacation you just booked. The summer wind down is the perfect time to start working toward that goal with a personalized Medical Weight Loss Clinic plan.

Donna Davies from our Chesterfield Township clinic shares why this season is an excellent time to start your program and how it can lead to success by the holidays.

Live your healthiest and happiest this summer with help from Medical Weight Loss Clinic.

Starting a program at Medical Weight Loss Clinic now offers a unique advantage. As Donna points out, “All of our programs are based on regular grocery store foods. Summer is a great time for grocery shopping as the fresh produce is delicious and less expensive.” 

This makes it a great time to enjoy a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables in your meal plan and even try something new that may not always be available.

If you’re feeling more motivated to start your weight loss journey this summer, you’re not alone. The availability of fresh produce along with longer days and warmer weather encourage people to be more active and health conscious.

“Individual moods tend to be better when there's more daylight each day,” Donna says. “Their positive energy and outlook improve.”

She adds that people are also motivated by a heightened awareness of their appearance and weight in the summer.

“Warm weather clothing shows every trouble spot, unlike covering up with bulky sweaters in the cooler months,” she says.

Donna emphasizes the importance of starting your weight loss journey now, highlighting the almost-immediate results you can see. 

“Eating healthy gives you more energy. Skin glows with increased water intake. Losing weight and limiting salt lowers blood pressure and relieves common aches and pains,” she adds.

The sooner you begin, the sooner you can experience these positive changes, enhancing your overall well-being. By starting now, you also give yourself a head start to reach major milestones and celebrate your achievements during the holiday season.

“The key is to start; progress begins right away,” Donna says. “Holidays and special dates are an awesome motivator. Imagine going to that class reunion or neighborhood get-together 10-20 pounds lighter, one to two sizes smaller.”

If you’re ready to take advantage of all that starting your weight loss journey in the summer has to offer, schedule your free consultation today at MWLC.com. Let’s make this summer the beginning of a healthier, happier you!