1173 South 250 West, Suite 110 St. George, Utah 84770

435-986-3800

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Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any more questions, please contact us and we can provide you with all the answers you need!

How much weight can I lose?

The answer to this question varies according to each individual. The average weight loss is 4 to 5 pounds per month. There are more extreme “diets” that allow you to lose faster, however, slower steady weight loss and lifestyle changes tend to be more permanent.

Are my calories restricted?

In order to lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you consume. However, there are many other things that affect your ability to lose, such as the type of calories consumed, (i.e. fats, proteins, starchy carbs), amount of exercise and physical activity, stress level, sleep habits, etc. All of these are taken into consideration in developing your individual plan.

Do I have to exercise?

Exercise is an essential component for a healthy lifestyle. However, it is possible to lose weight without exercising and some people cannot exercise until they actually lose some weight. This is understandable. The first and foremost component is changing how you eat and you will see the pounds go down on the scale. Exercise is the “icing on the cake” … it is good for the lungs, it is good for the heart, it is good for emotions and stress, and it is good for toning, and when combined with good healthy eating, it can play a huge role in weight loss.

What about after I lose weight? How do I keep it off?

Just as our weight loss plans are individualized to meet each unique person, so it is with maintenance plans. Hopefully, by the time you have reached your weight loss goals, you have acquired lifelong healthy habits. However, we know how easy it can be to slip back into habits that cause you to gain weight. Since we know how vital accountability is to success, we strongly suggest continuing follow-up visits with Dr. Andruss as frequently as needed and agreed upon with Dr. Andruss in the maintenance program developed for you.

Do I have to give up my favorite foods?

Not necessarily. What you really will need to give up are habits that caused you to be overweight in the first place, and the way you think about food. You may need to restrict the frequency of certain foods or save them for special occasions. The idea here is that you make healthy choices.

Are weight loss medications dangerous?

Not all weight loss medications are created equal. That is why some are over the counter while others require prescriptions. Prescription medications are not without side effects; however, they are rarely unsafe when monitored closely by a physician. When you become a patient, Dr. Andruss performs a physical exam including an EKG and a thorough medical history before considering medication. Medications are monitored on a regular basis.