Health Hack: How to use your health insurance plan benefits for weight loss services
You can use your Health Savings Account (HSA) for certain weight loss-related expenses if they meet specific criteria. Here’s a summary of how it works:
Eligible Expenses
Medical Care & Programs: You can use HSA funds for medically supervised weight loss programs, including doctor visits and consultations with healthcare professionals such as dietitians and therapists.
Weight Loss Medications: Prescribed weight loss medications for conditions like obesity or heart disease can be covered, provided you have a letter of medical necessity from your healthcare provider.
Other Treatments: Eligible expenses include nutritional counseling, weight loss injections, and surgical interventions like gastric bypass.
Ineligible Expenses
Gym Memberships: These are generally considered wellness expenses and not eligible.
Wellness Items: Organic foods, nutritional supplements, and spa memberships are not covered.
Utilizing Your HSA
Direct Payment: Use an HSA debit card at the time of purchase for eligible expenses.
Reimbursement: If you pay out of pocket, you can submit a request for reimbursement to your HSA administrator.
Maximizing Your HSA
Contribute the Maximum: In 2024, individuals can contribute up to $4,150; families can contribute up to $8,300.
Employer Contributions: Check if your employer matches contributions.
Interest Earnings: HSAs can earn interest tax-free, and some allow investment in mutual funds.
FSA Considerations
You can also use a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for weight loss costs, but remember:
The full annual contribution is available at the start of the plan year.
FSAs typically have a "use-it-or-lose-it" policy regarding unused funds.
Documentation
Keep receipts and relevant documentation for all expenses paid with your HSA to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
By understanding eligible expenses and maintaining proper documentation, you can effectively utilize your HSA for weight loss-related costs.
Are concerns regarding costs holding you back from making the changes to your health that you desire? At Tiffany Adult Wellness and weight loss our team of experienced professionals is here to support you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier you, including providing you with the documentation you need to utilize the health care benefits you already have. Offering personalized plans tailored to your specific needs and goals, we provide a comprehensive approach to weight loss that includes medical supervision, nutritional guidance, and ongoing support. Don't wait any longer to take control of your health - get started today with Tiffany Adult Wellness and let us help you achieve lasting results. Request an appointment today!
The Saucer Revolution: The Psychology of portion control
In an era where portion sizes have ballooned and chronic diseases are on the rise, maintaining a heart-healthy diet with low carbohydrate content is more crucial than ever. The solution might be simpler than you think: switching from a regular-sized plate to a saucer. This small change can help control portion sizes, a key factor in a healthy diet.
The Growing Concern: Portion Sizes
Over the past 50 years, portion sizes in America have dramatically increased. What was once a modest meal has transformed into an oversized serving, contributing to the obesity epidemic and related health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. This increase has led to higher caloric intake, larger waistlines, and increased incidence of heart-related illnesses.
Why Use a Saucer?
A smaller plate, or even a saucer, can help counteract this trend. The psychology behind plate size and portion control is compelling: we tend to fill our plates and eat what we serve ourselves. A smaller plate leads to smaller portions, which can naturally reduce calorie intake without making you feel deprived. This strategy aligns perfectly with creating a heart-healthy, low-carb meal plan.
Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a balanced, heart-healthy, and low-carb meal using a saucer:
1. Start with the Base. Leafy Greens. Begin by filling half of your saucer with a variety of leafy greens like spinach, kale, or arugula. These greens are low in carbohydrates but rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support heart health.
2. Add Lean Protein. Next, add a source of lean protein. Choose options such as grilled chicken breast, turkey, or fish like salmon or mackerel, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Aim for a portion about the size of the palm of your hand.
3. Healthy Fats. Include a small amount of healthy fats. Avocado slices, a handful of nuts, or a drizzle of olive oil can add flavor and satiety without tipping the carbohydrate scale.
4. Low-Carb Vegetables. Fill the remaining space with low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and broccoli. These vegetables add bulk and nutrients to your meal without the added carbs.
5. Flavor with Herbs and Spices. Instead of relying on high-carb sauces or dressings, enhance your meal with herbs and spices. Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley, along with spices like turmeric and garlic, can add a burst of flavor and additional health benefits.
Mindful eating and portion control can enhance satiety and enjoyment of food. By revisiting the size of our plates and making thoughtful food choices, we can create meals that are not only heart-healthy but also low in carbohydrates. The shift to using a saucer can lead to significant health benefits. Embrace the saucer revolution and take a step towards a healthier, more balanced diet.
Are you ready to transform your life and achieve your weight loss goals? Look no further than our medical weight loss clinic at Tiffany Adult Wellness and weight loss! Our team of experienced professionals is here to support you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier you. With personalized plans tailored to your specific needs and goals, we provide a comprehensive approach to weight loss that includes medical supervision, nutritional guidance, and ongoing support. Don't wait any longer to take control of your health - get started today with Tiffany Adult Wellness and let us help you achieve lasting results. Request an appointment today!
What you need to know about medically assisted weight loss now
Obesity plagues on average 7 in 10 American adults according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Weight loss is difficult for many people and studies show that only 1 in 5 adults in the United States successfully lose weight on traditional exercise and diet programs. Unless you have been living under a rock, you have seen all over the news and online many celebrities and regular people miraculously losing weight faster than ever before. What has been revealed is that many of these people are utilizing medical assistance to achieve their weight loss goals.
What is medically assisted weight loss?
Medically assisted weight loss involves the use of medical interventions, under the supervision of healthcare professionals, to help individuals lose weight. This approach is often recommended for those who have struggled with weight loss through diet and exercise alone, or for individuals with obesity and obesity-related health conditions. Under the supervision of a medical team that may include a dietician, nurse practitioner, physician or therapist, these patients recieve a multidisciplinary approach to weight loss that includes meal planning, behavioral therapy, medication, physical activity and in some cases surgery.
Prescription Medication
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for protecting the public by ensuring safety, security and efficacy of human drugs. Some medications have been approved by the FDA to treat obesity and are available for medically assisted weight loss. Some of these medications include:
Trizepatide (Zepound, Monjaro)
Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wergovy, Rybelsus)
Pentermine (Pro-Fast, Lomaira, Adipex-P)
Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda)
Orlistat (Xenical. Alli- available over the counter without a prescription)
Bupropion/Naltrexone (Contrave)
Setmelanotide (Imcivree)
Healthcare provider or team weight loss assistance
Weight loss under the supervision of a healthcare provider drastically increases the chances of losing weight successfully. These professionals offer expertise while providing support and accountability through out your weight loss process. A nurse practitioner, physician assistant or doctor can prescribe medication, provide assistance with meal planning, offer health education and provide referrals to other professionals such as surgeons if surgery is recommended. Excess weight gain may also be linked to habits, emotions and choices. Multiple failed weight loss attempts can also contribute to mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. A mental health professional can provide counseling and behavioral therapy to help you overcome emotional barriers and teach alternative coping mechanisms through behavior modification strategies.
Surgery and Devices
There are a range of procedures for medically assisted weight loss that include sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass and adjustable gastric banding. Medical devices such as laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) and medication-like devices like Plenity may be used to assist with weight loss. These options must be inserted surgically or are not absorbed by the body. These procedures have risks that include malnutrition and surgical complications. If you are interested in these options, talk to your primary care provider for possible referrals.
What to expect with a medically assisted weight loss program
Just as you are not identical to anyone else, you should expect a unique program that is tailored to your medical history, goals and preferences. All patients are not candidates for weight loss medications due to safety contraindications. If you meet the qualifications for medication, sustainable weight loss will include changes in physical activity and diet as well.
To begin any program, you should expect an initial assessment by a provider to evaluate your weight, vital signs and medical and family history. They should ask questions about your exercise routine, eating habits, current medications and medical history to ensure any options you chose are safe and appropriate. You should be offered a program that includes dietary and physical activity adjustments and ongoing monitoring and follow-up.
Get started with medically assisted weight loss with Tiffany Adult Wellness and Weight loss
With Tiffany Adult Wellness and Weight loss you can find a licensed provider to help you meet your weight loss goals. Schedule your initial appointment for help and support through Tiffany Adult Wellness and Weight loss today.
Sleep and Weight loss in Perfect Harmony
Getting enough sleep is an important aspect of life. Furthermore, not getting enough sleep can have a negative effect on your weight loss journey.
As a Nurse Practitioner I have interviewed numerous patients with sleep disturbance. Sleep disturbances include any problems falling asleep, staying asleep, excessive drowsiness, or disruptions in the sleep schedule.
The relationship between sleep and weight loss is intricate and powerful, with scientific evidence highlighting the vital role of quality sleep in the weight management journey. Numerous studies have shown that sleep and weight are intertwined in complex ways. Sleep deprivation, often defined as consistently getting fewer than 7-9 hours of sleep per night, can disrupt hormonal balance, metabolism, and appetite regulation. Two hormones, ghrelin (which stimulates appetite) and leptin (which signals fullness), are particularly affected by sleep. Sleep deprivation can lead to an increase in ghrelin levels, causing an upsurge in appetite and cravings, especially for high-calorie and carbohydrate-rich foods. Simultaneously, sleep loss can reduce leptin levels, making it challenging for individuals to recognize when they are full, leading to overeating and potential weight gain. Sleep deprivation has been linked to insulin resistance, which impairs the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance can promote fat storage and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, both of which can hinder weight loss efforts.
One of the first things I would suggest to anyone thinking they may have insomnia to take an assessment. The sleep hygiene practice scale evaluates four domains that may interfere with sleep.
The Four Domains of Sleep
1. Timing and scheduling
Are you going and wakening up about the same time each day even on the weekend? Are you taking long naps during the day? Constant inconsistency in the sleep schedule can interfere with our circadian rhythm, or the body’s internal clock. Additionally, activities such as use of electronic devices or drinking caffeine can interfere with the ability to fall asleep.
2. Food and Beverages
How we eat, what we eat and how much you eat can impact sleep quality. Drinking caffeine, fasting or overeating are examples of foods and beverages that affect sleep. Restrict drinking caffeine at least 2 hours before bed. Avoid overeating or skipping meals to avoid food/beverage interfereneces with sleep.
3.. Environment
The environment plays a pivotal roll in our ability to experience restful sleep. Items such as a loud clock or an open laptop that are not associated with sleep can prevent us from having quality sleep. Trying to sleep in a room that is too bright or being in a room that has been dark all day can interfere with sleep.
4. Arousal
Stress and overstimulation close to bedtime have a negative impact on our ability to fall asleep. Worrying about the days events (I hate my neighbor, does Pookie love me), having an aggressive conversation with your mate (I wish a joker would!), smoking prior to bed and exercising prior to bed are proven to negatively impact sleep.
As you start your weight loss journey, keep in mind that sleep is an important factor in reaching your goals. Getting good-quality sleep can have a positive effect on your hormones, metabolism, and control over your appetite. This means that it can be easier to choose healthier foods and maintain a healthy weight. By developing a routine for better sleep and understanding how it influences weight loss, you are increasing your chances of success in both areas.
Are you ready to transform your life and achieve your weight loss goals? Look no further than our medical weight loss clinic at Tiffany Adult Wellness and weight loss! Our team of experienced professionals is here to support you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier you. With personalized plans tailored to your specific needs and goals, we provide a comprehensive approach to weight loss that includes medical supervision, nutritional guidance, and ongoing support. Don't wait any longer to take control of your health - get started today with Tiffany Adult Wellness and weight loss and let us help you achieve lasting results. Request an appointment today!
The information in this post is for informational or educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals. Always consult with healthcare professionals to create a personalized plan that aligns with both your health needs and weight goals.
Get off the treadmill: Maximizing Metabolism for Effective Weight Loss
For the most part, most people on a weight loss journey are told that eating less and burning more calories is the simple formula for achieving weight loss. However, understanding the intricate relationship between body tissue type, metabolism, and the impact of different activities on our bodies are crucial components of achieving sustainable results.
Fat and Metabolism
Metabolism plays a critical role in how our bodies utilize energy, burn calories, and lose weight. Our bodies are composed of various types of tissues, including muscle tissue and fat tissue, otherwise known as adipose tissue. Fat tissue, while essential for insulation from cold and hot temperatures, cushioning of soft organs, and energy storage. In states of excess fat tissue, otherwise known as obesity, our bodies maintain an increased resting metabolic rate, or the energy required to fuel the body’s functions. When we lose weight, we decrease the body’s resting metabolic rate because we have less body tissue and cellular functions for the body to support. Many obese people who use cardiovascular exercise as a primary form of exercise source to lose weight notice that they ultimately require longer and more frequent exercise to achieve the weight loss they were able to achieve when they were at a heavier weight.
“Image by MANNATECH via https://us.mannatech.com/ .”
Muscle and Metabolism
Muscle tissue, on the other hand, requires high metabolic rates and requires more demand on the body compared to fat tissue. Muscle tissue is also denser than fat, resulting in a smaller appearance on the body than fat tissue. As a result, when strength training is used as the primary form of exercise, the immediate weight loss occurs slower, however, the physical appearance of the body is smaller, leaner and the long-term energy demand of the denser muscle fibers results in overall increases the rate of the metabolism at rest. Simply put, people with higher muscle mass burn more calories at rest, appear more fit and have more effective weight management and overall fitness.
“If you think lifting weights is dangerous, try being weak.”
Maintain those Gains!
When focusing on weight loss, it's critical to prioritize muscle preservation. Healthy muscle tissue needs to be fueled through nutrition. Extreme cardiovascular exercises and caloric deficits can cause muscle loss and decrease resting metabolic rate. Participating in strength training exercises and maintaining an appropriate caloric deficit that allows muscle growth with fat loss helps maintain a higher metabolic rate and ensures that the body continues to burn calories efficiently.
Progressive Overload and Sustainable Results:
To harness the benefits of muscle gain and effective weight loss, it's important to follow a sustainable fitness routine. Resistance exercises such as squats, weightlifting, pull-ups, and push-ups can promote consistent muscle development. Gradual increase of intensity, known as progressive overload, coupled with proper nutrition allows for steady metabolism optimization and healthy fat loss.
Understanding the interplay between body tissues, metabolism, and various forms of physical activity is crucial for anyone striving for successful weight loss and muscle gain. Prioritizing muscle preservation, muscle gain, and fat loss, and consuming healthy nutrition options lead to a more efficient metabolism. Remember, it's not just about getting off the treadmill; it's about strategically working with our body's natural processes to achieve lasting fitness results.
Are you ready to transform your life and achieve your weight loss goals? Look no further than our medical weight loss clinic at Tiffany Adult Wellness and weight loss! Our team of experienced professionals is here to support you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier you. With personalized plans tailored to your specific needs and goals, we provide a comprehensive approach to weight loss that includes medical supervision, nutritional guidance, and ongoing support. Don't wait any longer to take control of your health - get started today with Tiffany Adult Wellness and weight loss and let us help you achieve lasting results. Request an appointment today!
The information in this post is for informational or educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals. Always consult with healthcare professionals to create a personalized plan that aligns with both your health needs and weight goals.
The Case for Weights: What women over 40 need to know about weight lifting to stay strong
Aging… who needs it?
Well, as much as we live in a youth obsessed society, the truth is the goal is to age. And as we age, our bodies change, making physical activity more critical. Contrary to common misconceptions, incorporating weight lifting, particularly in those over 40 can yield numerous benefits and become a vital component of a women’s fitness journey after 40.
Muscle building improved mobility and stability
As women age, they may experience a natural decline in muscle mass, known as sarcopenia. Weight lifting, also known as resistance training, counteracts this process by stimulating muscle growth and strength. Maintaining muscle mass is essential for preserving mobility, stability, and overall functional independence, ensuring a higher quality of life as women continue to age gracefully.
Metabolic rate increases improves fat burning ability
The metabolism naturally slows down with age. Building muscle through resistance training increases the basal metabolic rate, leading to more efficient calorie expenditure, even at rest. This can be beneficial for managing body weight and promoting a healthy body composition.
Strength training creates strong bones
Women are particularly susceptible to osteoporosis, particularly after menopause. This can cause bones to be weakened and increase risk for fractures. Weight lifting is a places healthy stress on bones that results in enhanced bone density and significantly reduces the risk of fractures and improves overall bone and joint health.
Weight lifting improves memory and mood
Hormonal fluctuations are an inherent part of the aging process. Weight lifting has been clinical shown to positively influence hormone levels, reduce stress hormones, increasing endorphins, and improve cognitive function. By promoting blood flow to the brain, weight lifting helps nourish brain cells and supports cognitive health.
Incorporating weight lifting into the fitness routine of women over 40 is a transformative step towards embracing strength, health, and vitality. As women continue to age gracefully, they can shatter stereotypes, redefine what it means to be strong, and enjoy the journey of life with unwavering determination. So, let's lift weights and lift spirits, proving that strength knows no age and no limits.
Remember to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program to ensure it aligns with individual needs and health considerations.
Are you ready to transform your life and achieve your weight loss goals? Look no further than our medical weight loss clinic at Tiffany Adult Wellness and weight loss! Our team of experienced professionals is here to support you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier you. With personalized plans tailored to your specific needs and goals, we provide a comprehensive approach to weight loss that includes medical supervision, nutritional guidance, and ongoing support. Don't wait any longer to take control of your health - get started today with Tiffany Adult Wellness and weight loss and let us help you achieve lasting results. Request an appointment today!
The information in this post is for informational or educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals. Always consult with healthcare professionals to create a personalized plan that aligns with both your health needs and weight goals.
Is your Brunch Routine Ruining your Life?
Or at least your fitness goals.
We all love #selfcaresundays and brunch with friends over the weekends can be a long-awaited social oasis. But is something about our brunch time derailing the hard work we have done all week in the gym and making us unhealthy?
It could be if you are drinking too much alcohol with your meal.
A staple for most at brunch is the breakfast cocktails. Bloody Mary’s, mimosas, morning mules, and Bellini’s, often bottomless, can be un-doing your workout and mindful dietary practices.
The water factor
Consuming enough water is essential to a healthy diet and fitness program and excessive consumption of alcohol can cause dehydration and in extreme cases impair kidney function. Within 20 minutes of consuming alcohol, you may notice you have to go to the restroom. This happens because alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it causes water loss by signaling the kidneys to release electrolytes and fluids. A decrease in circulating water can increase your appetite, causing you to overeat and slow your metabolism. In addition, dehydrated muscles break down protein and can cause your strength training to be less effective.
The Family Factor
Our body’s ability to metabolize alcohol is influenced by our genetics. Unfortunately, if you have a family history of obesity and alcoholism, your body is likely to be less able to break down the chemicals in alcohol and is more likely to experience a negative effect from alcohol consumption.
The Obesity Factor
The effects of alcohol consumption vary from person to person but if you are already overweight, the effects of drinking alcohol can be more drastic for you when compared to someone who is not overweight. Alcohol like most other foods and beverages contain calories however there is research that indicates that people who have a diet that is high in fat and have a high body fat composition are more likely to experience weight loss from alcohol calories when compared to a person who does not have these factors present.
“Everything in moderation, including moderation.”
The Bottom Line
We all value our traditions and getting together with friends. If you are going to have drinks that include alcohol, remember to be mindful of your consumption so you don’t get off track with your long-term goals to be healthy and happy.
Are you ready to transform your life and achieve your weight loss goals? Look no further than our medical weight loss clinic at Tiffany Adult Wellness and weight loss! Our team of experienced professionals is here to support you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier you. With personalized plans tailored to your specific needs and goals, we provide a comprehensive approach to weight loss that includes medical supervision, nutritional guidance, and ongoing support. Don't wait any longer to take control of your health - get started today with Tiffany Adult Wellness and weight loss and let us help you achieve lasting results. Request an appointment today!
The information in this post is for informational or educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals. Always consult with healthcare professionals to create a personalized plan that aligns with both your health needs and weight goals.