Frequently Asked Questions

The National Institutes of Health defines obesity as an "abnormally high proportion of body fat" and overweight as "excess of body weight compared to set standards." Guidelines have been adopted for classifying obesity using a calculation based on weight and height. This is called Body Mass Index or BMI and is calculated by dividing an individual's weight in kg by their height in meters squared. BMI is categorized as follows:

• Overweight = BMI of 25-29.9
• Obesity Class I = BMI of 30-34.9
• Obesity Class II = BMI of 35-39.9
• Obesity Class III = BMI >or = 40

The higher the BMI, the greater the risk for all cause mortality as well as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, etc.

• Diabetes
• Heart Disease & Heart Attack
• High Blood Pressure
• Stroke
• High Cholesterol
• Gall Bladder Disease
• Osteoarthritis
• Gout
• Sleep Apnea
• Mood Disorder & Depression
• Cancer of the colon, breast, & uterus
• Polycystic Ovarian Disease & Infertility

Body composition analysis determines the ratio of an individual's lean body mass to fat body mass. Results are significant because individuals who have a higher percent body fat are at increased risk for medical problems associated with obesity.

This information is added to the BMI for a more detailed insight of their body condition. Also, metabolic rate can be estimated based on the amount of lean body mass. Finally, as an individual loses weight, it is important to reevaluate body composition to ensure that body fat is being lost as opposed to lean muscle mass.

• It lowers LDL (bad cholesterol) and raises HDL (good cholesterol).
• It improves Insulin sensitivity which can delay the onset of Diabetes as well as improve existing Diabetes.
• It improves cardiac function and strengthens the heart.
• It lowers Blood Pressure.
• It boosts metabolism and enhances weight loss when combined with diet.
• It is the most important factor for maintaining weight loss.
• It improves the quality of sleep.
• It increases energy level.
• It improves mood.
• It relieves STRESS!

We do not file with insurance companies, as the majority of companies do not cover services for the medical management of obesity. However, we will provide a superbill with appropriate diagnostic and billing codes that you may submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.

Keep in mind, the IRS allows you to deduct expenses for PHYSICIAN directed weight loss programs if you spend at least 7.5% of your gross annual income on the care/meds/exercise regimens/supplements/etc.

We offer 0% and low-interest financing through Care Credit and accept MasterCard and Visa.

For further inquiries or to schedule an appointment, please contact us by phone at (512)371-9885 or by e-mail.

Metabolic Syndrome is a constellation of risk factors that have been shown to greatly increase your risk for diabetes, heart attack and stroke. We will screen you for this condition and provide the necessary treatment which may include diet and exercise changes and/or medication. The criteria for Metabolic Syndrome are as follows:

• Waist >35 inches in females/ >40 inches in males
• HDL (good) cholesterol <50 in females, <40 in males
• Triglycerides >150
• Fasting blood sugar >110
• Blood pressure >130/85