Medical Weight Loss: A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Health

Medical weight loss is a non-surgical treatment option for individuals who need help with more than diet and exercise to lose weight. Dr. Jessica Cho is an experienced medical weight loss consultant in Century City, Los Angeles, CA. Our care goes beyond just treatment or procedure. Dr. Cho has 25 years of experience in medical weight management. She quickly identifies the underlying cause of your weight problem and provides safe, effective treatment options. She creates customized weight loss programs only for you.

Beyond Diet and Exercise

Medical weight loss goes beyond the traditional methods of calorie counting and exercise. It’s about addressing the core imbalances that impact weight, such as:

• Restorative sleep
• Cortisol regulation (stress hormone)
• Hormonal balance
• Insulin sensitivity
• Inflammation management (hs-CRP)
• Metabolic enhancement

At Wellness at Century City, I help patients navigate their weight loss journey by focusing on restoring balance in the body and mind. Instead of just “dieting,” we aim to optimize your body’s natural ability to metabolize food and convert it into energy effortlessly. No more fear of losing control or emotional eating due to unmet physical and emotional needs. Over the past 26 years, I’ve witnessed countless patients reclaim their confidence, health, and vitality by addressing their “hurt stories.” 

Optimizing Your Body for Lasting Change

Our journey is about more than shedding pounds—it’s about reclaiming your “happy weight” and living a life full of vitality and balance. 

Exercise and Weight Loss: Reversing the Wheel of Time

Lengthen Your Telomeres and Boost Metabolism

Regular exercise not only helps with weight loss, but it also activates anti-aging processes at the cellular level by lengthening telomeres (the protective caps on your DNA). Exercise reverses signs of aging, builds muscle, and improves insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for both weight loss and disease prevention.

Here are my exercise recommendations:

• High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Burns fat, builds muscle, and significantly boosts mitochondrial capacity at any age.
• Endurance exercises: Swimming, cycling, and running improve cardiovascular health and stamina.
• Resistance training: Strengthens muscles and improves overall body composition.
• Yoga and stretching: Enhances flexibility and reduces stress.

Exercise not only lengthens telomeres but also improves cognition, mood, and insulin sensitivity, offering protection against over 40 adult-onset chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Intermittent Fasting: A Time-Tested Weight Loss Tool

Intermittent fasting (IF) is a powerful tool for optimizing metabolism and supporting overall health. By alternating periods of eating and fasting, you shift your body from a growth (fed) state to a fat-burning (fasting) state, promoting healthier blood sugar levels, insulin sensitivity, and immune function.

My IF recommendation:

• Fast for 12-16 hours daily with an 8-hour eating window.

Fasting activates autophagy, the body’s cellular “clean-up” process, improving immune resilience and supporting healthy aging. Over time, intermittent fasting can improve appetite control and help tune your body to its natural hunger cues.

Keto Diet: A Fat-Burning Strategy for Health and Weight Loss

The ketogenic diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that shifts your body into ketosis, a fat-burning state. By avoiding carbs and focusing on healthy fats and proteins, you can achieve sustainable weight loss while also addressing chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cognitive decline.

Examples of Foods to Eat:

• Meat, fatty fish, eggs, butter, cheese
• Low-carb veggies, avocados, healthy oils
• Nuts, seeds, dark chocolate (in moderation)

Examples of Foods to Avoid:

• Sugary foods, grains, legumes, root vegetables
• Low-fat diet products, unhealthy fats, alcohol

By embracing keto, intermittent fasting, and targeted exercise strategies, you can transform your health and reach your weight loss goals naturally.

Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your weight gain, such as bloating, brain fog, and cravings, and work towards healing the body and mind. When we balance the key pillars—sleep, stress, hormones, metabolism, and inflammation—weight loss becomes a natural outcome of achieving overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is medical weight loss?

Medical weight loss is a structured weight management program supervised by healthcare professionals. These programs include lifestyle changes, medical interventions, and personalized support to help individuals maintain a healthy weight.

How much does medical weight loss cost?

The cost of medical weight loss can vary depending on the type of program, location, and the services included. It’s essential to consult with providers for detailed pricing and to check if insurance covers any part of the program.

What is a medical weight loss program?

A medical weight loss program is a comprehensive plan designed and supervised by healthcare professionals to help individuals lose weight safely and effectively. It usually includes:

• Assessment of health status and weight-related conditions.
• Dietary recommendations, exercise plans, and behavioral strategies.
• Possible prescription medications or supplements to aid weight loss.
• Regular follow-ups, counseling, and adjustments to the plan based on progress.
•  Guidance on long-term weight management and healthy lifestyle practices

How does medical weight loss work?

Medical weight loss involves a comprehensive approach to address weight gain and obesity. It starts with assessing the individual’s health and goals, followed by a personalized plan that includes dietary changes, exercise, and behavioral modifications. Medical treatments may be used to support weight loss. The program consists of regular monitoring, support, and education to help maintain a healthy weight and prevent future gain.