Medical Weight Loss & Metabolic Wellness
Treating patients across Texas, Arizona, Idaho, & Iowa
Advanced weight loss solutions led by a Dual Board-Certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (FNP/PMHNP-BC). We combine modern GLP-1 medications with metabolic science to help you lose weight and keep it off.
The Medical Difference: Why Choose Serene Bold?
Most weight loss programs only look at the scale. As a dual-certified practitioner, I look at the whole person. We address the biological, metabolic, and psychological barriers to weight loss, including:
- Insulin Resistance & Hormonal Imbalances
- Emotional Eating & Cravings
- Metabolic Adaptation (Plateaus).
What’s Included in Your Program?
Comprehensive Metabolic Review: Analysis of your labs (Thyroid, A1C, Lipids) and medical history.
Custom Prescription Plan: A medication strategy that fits your insurance coverage or out-of-pocket budget.
Ongoing Support: Monthly check-ins to monitor progress, manage side effects, and adjust dosages.
Psych-Metabolic Integration: Specialized support for patients managing weight gain from other psychiatric medications.
Weight Loss Medication Protocols
1. GLP-1 & GIP "Incretin" Therapies (The Gold Standard)
Available for residents in Texas, Arizona, Idaho, and Iowa
These once-weekly injections mimic natural hormones to slow digestion, stabilize blood sugar, and significantly reduce "food noise."
- Tirzepatide (Zepbound): A dual-action GLP-1/GIP agonist, the most potent weight loss medication currently on the market.
- Semaglutide (Wegovy): A highly effective GLP-1 receptor agonist for long-term weight management.
- Liraglutide (Saxenda): A daily GLP-1 injection option for those who prefer or require a daily dosing schedule.
- Note: We assist with Insurance Prior Authorizations and offer access to high-quality compounded options for self-pay patients.
2. Medical Appetite Suppressants (Sympathomimetics)
Available for Texas and Arizona residents only.
These medications work by stimulating the hypothalamus to decrease hunger signals. They are excellent for jumpstarting a weight loss journey.
- Phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira): The most widely prescribed stimulant for appetite suppression. Available in standard (Adipex-P) or low-dose (Lomaira) versions.
- Diethylpropion (Tenuate): A milder stimulant option often better tolerated by patients sensitive to jitters or anxiety.
- Phendimetrazine: A potent sympathomimetic amine used as a short-term adjunct to diet and exercise.
3. Combination & Behavior-Targeted Therapies
Available for residents in Texas, Arizona, Idaho, and Iowa.
These oral medications target both the physical hunger in the stomach and the "reward center" in the brain.
- Naltrexone-Bupropion (Contrave): Specifically designed to curb cravings and stop emotional eating. Excellent for patients also managing mood or "reward-based/emotional" eating habits.
- Phentermine-Topiramate (Qsymia): Combines a low-dose stimulant with a satiety-inducing medication.
- Note: For ID/IA residents, Qsymia is unavailable due to the Phentermine component; however, we can discuss effective non-controlled alternatives.
Telehealth & State Regulations
We offer convenient telehealth visits across four states. Please note our prescribing guidelines:
Important Regulatory Note
- Telehealth Compliance: Controlled substances (Phentermine, Diethylpropion, Phendimetrazine, and Qsymia) require specific state-mandated registrations. We currently offer these to our Texas and Arizona patients only.
- Idaho & Iowa Patients: We offer a full suite of non-controlled medical options, including Zepbound, Wegovy, Saxenda, and Contrave, which are highly effective for long-term weight loss.
Pricing & Getting Started
We do not bill insurance for weight loss consultations; however, your pharmacy may bill your insurance for your medications if they are covered by your plan.
- Initial Weight Loss Consultation: $125 (Self-pay).
- Follow-up Visits: $125.
- Labs: We can order labs through your insurance or provide low-cost cash-pay options through Quest/LabCorp.
Bariatric Surgery: Post-Operative Nutrition Essentials
Optimizing Nutrient Intake After Bariatric Surgery
Choosing the Right Supplements: Factors to Consider
Essential Supplements After Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is a transformative procedure that demands special attention to post-operative nutrition. This surgery involves modifying the stomach or intestines to encourage weight loss, which can impact nutrient absorption in the body. The selection of appropriate supplements and vitamins is crucial for preventing nutrient deficiencies and promoting a successful recovery.
After bariatric surgery, patients typically require specific supplements to bolster their health and well-being. These essential supplements may comprise:
- Multivitamins: Vital for covering various nutritional needs post-surgery.
- Calcium: Essential for bone health and preventing deficiencies.
- Vitamin D: Aids in calcium absorption and overall health.
- Iron: Helps prevent anemia and maintain energy levels.
- B12: Critical for nerve function and preventing deficiencies.
- Protein Supplements: Vital for tissue repair and muscle maintenance.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Support heart and brain health.
- Fiber Supplements: Aid in digestion and regular bowel movements.
- Probiotics: Help maintain a healthy gut.
- Vitamin C: Important for healing and overall health.
Choosing the Right Supplements: Factors to Consider
Choosing the Right Supplements: Factors to Consider
When selecting the right supplements for your needs, it's important to take into account several factors:
- Recommendations Compliance: Ensure that the chosen supplement meets the recommended guidelines for your specific dietary requirements.
- Taste and Flavor: Consider the taste or flavor of the supplement, especially if it's essential for you to consume it regularly.
- Serving Size and Dosage: Pay attention to the number of tablets, chews, or the serving size of liquid required to reach the suggested dose, as this can vary among products.
- Price and Availability: Evaluate the cost of the supplement and its availability in your area. Compare options to find the most cost-effective choice.
It's worth noting that taking a bariatric multivitamin may help minimize the number of individual supplements you need to take.
Thiamine (Vitamin B1): A Vital Nutrient for Energy and Brain Health
Thiamine, also known as Vitamin B1, is an essential nutrient responsible for converting food into energy and maintaining crucial brain and nerve functionality. Deficiency in thiamine can lead to significant health consequences.
- Energy Conversion: Thiamine plays a critical role in the conversion of food into energy, supporting overall vitality.
- Brain and Nerve Function: Thiamine is vital for the proper functioning of the brain and nerves, influencing cognitive and neurological health.
- Deficiency Effects: Insufficient thiamine levels can result in a range of detrimental effects on physical and mental well-being.
Recommended Intake: It's advised to consume 3mg of thiamine per day to maintain optimal health.
The Importance of Vitamin B12 in Cellular Growth and Nervous System Function
Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in the growth and replication of cells and is integral to the proper functioning of the nervous system. Adequate intake is vital for overall health.
Recommended Dosages:
- Oral (By mouth): 350-500mcg per day or 1,000mcg every other day.
- Injection: 1,000mcg once a month.
- Nasal Spray: 500mcg once a week.
Understanding Iron and Vitamin C for Red Blood Cell Production
The body's production of red blood cells relies on iron, an essential mineral. Here are key points to consider:
- Recommended Iron Intake: For most people, a daily intake of 36mg of iron is necessary to support red blood cell production.
- Special Considerations for Women: Females who are still menstruating may require an increased daily intake of 45-60mg of iron. This is particularly important for menstruating women and individuals with iron deficiency anemia.
- Enhancing Iron Absorption: To maximize iron absorption, it's advisable to take iron supplements with Vitamin C, which significantly aids absorption.
- The Role of Vitamin C: Vitamin C plays a crucial role in the body's recovery process, supporting overall health. The recommended daily intake of Vitamin C is 120mg.
Optimizing Calcium and Vitamin D Intake for Better Absorption
- Calcium Citrate: It is known to have better absorption compared to other types, such as calcium carbonate and gummy tricalcium phosphate.
- Recommended Daily Intake: Aim for a daily intake of 1,200-1,500 mg of calcium.
- Divided Doses: To enhance absorption, take your calcium in divided doses of 500-600 mg, 2-3 times a day, as your body can't absorb more than this at one time.
- Combine with Vitamin D: For improved calcium absorption, consider taking calcium supplements alongside Vitamin D.
- Vitamin D3: A daily dose of 3,000 units (IU) is recommended. It's best absorbed when taken with food.
- Timing is Important: To maximize absorption, take calcium and Vitamin D at least 2 hours apart from any multivitamin with iron or other iron supplements.