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Step 1: Consultation
Before you formally become
a patient at the Southwest Bariatric Nutrition Center, you will
consult with Dr. Robertson to establish your goals and discuss
ways for you to achieve them. Many dietary options will be discussed
at that time, including low-fat, vegetarian and modified fasting
through conventional food and/or a formula. Optifast,
developed at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in Cleveland, was incorporated
as a weight loss option in 1981. Together, you and Dr. Robertson
will arrive at a dietary program that best suits you. Changing
eating plans is never a problem.
Step 2: Medical Evaluation
At the start of the program,
you will undergo a complete evaluation which includes a medical
history, physical exam, electrocardiogram and lab tests to help
determine which program is best for you.
Step 3: Modified Fast
Dr. Robertson strongly
believes total fasts are dangerous and can have serious side
effects. Instead, for many patients, a modified fast, combining
a limited number of calories with the necessary daily nutrients,
is recommended.
Step 4: Close Observation
During your weekly visits
to Southwest Bariatric Nutrition Center, in addition to your
medical monitoring, there is time for your questions and concerns.
A re-education program is an integral part of your weekly visit.
The attention and supervision of the staff during your visits
will help you stay on the right track and ensure you make the
necessary lifestyle changes that will allow you to reach your
goal.
Step 5: Group Classes
Ongoing classes are held
on topics necessary to help you learn the essentials of good
nutrition, behavior changes and regular exercise. Classes are
offered regularly to fit your busy schedules and are designed
to help you achieve long-term maintenance. In addition to the
classes, weekly support groups are offered.
Step 6: Self-Image Workshops
Southwest Bariatric Nutrition
Center offers periodic workshops conducted by experts in fashion,
personal appearance and cosmetic surgery. The sessions offer
suggestions on how to modify your appearance and wardrobe to
fit better your new weight and physical appearance.
Step 7: Maintenance Program
One of the most difficult
aspects of weight loss is keeping excess pounds off once you
have lost them. Southwest Bariatric Nutrition Center's strong,
long-term maintenance program is designed to ensure your success
by providing the individual support and attention you need to
master the lifestyle changes that are so critical to permanent
weight loss. Personal Eating Plans that suit individual lifestyles
are an important part of the maintenance program.
Periodic maintenance workshops
are offered also and geared towards food-oriented holidays. Workshops
are conducted in tandem with the dietician, psychologist and
group support leader. |
