Should You Consider a Ozempic or Mounjaro for Weight Loss?

GLP-1 agonists have gained immense popularity in recent years as an effective tool for weight loss, especially for individuals struggling with obesity, insulin resistance, high leptin levels or those who’ve found it difficult to lose weight through traditional methods.

But what makes these medications work so well, and what do you need to consider when using them?

Let’s dive into the details behind GLP-1 agonists, how they help reduce appetite, and what steps you should take to ensure your weight loss journey is sustainable and healthy.

How Do GLP-1 Agonists Work?

GLP-1 agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) mimic a hormone that’s naturally produced in your body after eating. This hormone plays a key role in regulating appetite by slowing gastric emptying (how fast food moves from the stomach to the intestines) and sending signals to the brain that you’re full. As a result, your appetite is reduced, and you feel satisfied with smaller portions.

But these drugs don’t just suppress appetite—they also affect insulin secretion, helping to lower blood sugar levels after meals, which can be beneficial for individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes. You may have heard these GLP-1 drugs on social media:

• tirzepatide injection (Zepbound, Mounjaro)

• semaglutide injection (Wegovy, Ozempic)

Why Weight Loss Happens with GLP-1 Agonists

The weight loss effect occurs primarily because of reduced food intake and a decrease in calorie consumption. However, it's important to note that while these drugs can curb hunger, they do not directly burn fat. Therefore, losing weight too quickly or without a proper nutritional foundation can lead to muscle loss, which is why balanced meals and mindful eating remain essential while using GLP-1 agonists.

Balanced Meals Are Still Key

Even though GLP-1 agonists reduce hunger, it’s crucial to focus on balanced nutrition. You may not feel as hungry, but your body still needs essential nutrients like protein, healthy fats, adequate fiber, and minerals to maintain muscle mass and energy. Skipping meals or not consuming adequate nutrients while on these medications can lead to nutritional deficiencies, loss of muscle mass, and even slower metabolism.

A good rule of thumb is to focus on meals that include lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and healthy fats. This not only keeps you full but helps maintain muscle mass and supports overall health.

what we offer & how we do GLP-1 Weight loss differently

• Customized Doses of both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide (Generic versions of Ozempic and Mounjaro)

• Reputable Compounding Pharmacy in the USA

• Monthly Check-ins

• Upgrade & Add Body Contouring

• Dietary Counseling

• Side Effects Management

There is controversy with the availability of the availability of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide from compounding pharmacies, so we encourage clients to be diligent with their weight loss journey before this is no longer available.

Regular Check-Ins

Our GLP-1 Weight loss program includes monthly check-ins. This is a critical part of using GLP-1 agonists effectively. These visits ensure that your dosage is properly adjusted and any side effects—such as nausea, gastrointestinal issues, or dehydration—are managed. Additionally, we will monitor your overall health, ensuring that your weight loss is not happening too quickly or negatively impacting muscle mass.

We also include a protocol to help you deal with side effects! Check this out

Muscle Mass: Why It’s Crucial OR KEEPING WEIGHT OFF

Rapid weight loss can result in muscle loss if not managed properly. Muscle mass is crucial not only for strength and mobility but also because muscle burns more calories than fat. Losing muscle can slow down your metabolism and make it more difficult to maintain your weight loss long-term.

Incorporating protein-rich meals and strength training exercises into your routine is essential. You don’t necessarily need to go to the gym—bodyweight exercises like push-ups, lunges, and squats, along with kettlebell routines, can be done at home with minimal equipment.

These workouts target key muscle groups and help prevent muscle loss as you shed fat. Aim for at least 2-3 strength training sessions per week to maintain muscle mass while on GLP-1 agonists.

Why Targeted Exercise Matters

While GLP-1 agonists help reduce overall body fat, certain areas—like the back, flanks, inner thighs, and lower belly—can be more resistant to fat loss. Strength training helps burn fat in these stubborn areas by building muscle, which boosts your metabolism. Increasing muscle mass in these areas helps burn more fat over time, making it easier to achieve your desired physique.

If you're looking to tone these areas further, body contouring treatments at Potentia Med Spa can help. These non-invasive procedures can target stubborn fat pockets and help you achieve a more sculpted look, especially in combination with the weight loss you're already experiencing.

Watch this in action…

The Bottom Line

GLP-1 agonists are a powerful tool for weight loss, but they should be used thoughtfully and in conjunction with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and medical guidance. Preserving muscle mass is essential to keeping your metabolism healthy and ensuring long-term success. At Potentia Med Spa, we’ve got you covered with both weight loss programs and body contouring treatments to help you achieve your desired results.

XO

Dr. Vera

Harnessing the Best of Japanese Lifestyle

While Dr. Singleton is out of the office on a bucket-list trip to Japan, let’s dive into some advancements Japan has brought to the world of functional medicine. 

Japan’s mix of ancient wisdom and cutting-edge science has been shaking things up, especially when it comes to gut health, anti-aging, and hormonal balance.

 Let’s take a look at the latest updates, it may just inspire your next health upgrade!

1. Calming Bloating: 

If your gut’s been giving you trouble, Japanese-inspired foods might have the answer. Over there, microflora supportive foods & supplements are a big deal when it comes to calming IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). 

By tackling inflammation and boosting gut health, these supplements not only calm digestive symptoms but also improve immunity and even mental well-being. It’s gut bliss, Japanese style! Here are examples of Japanese food-based probiotics you may not be aware of. If you haven’t tried Natto beans, you may want to read this first.

2. Consistency in Skin Health: The Secret to Getting the Glow

Japanese women are known for their flawless, radiant skin, and it’s no accident. Their skincare routine is all about simplicity and effectiveness.

Their mantra? Purify, Polish, Plump, and Nourish. It’s not just about slathering on 15 different serums; it’s about sticking to a routine that works, day in and day out. 

Cleanse to purify, exfoliate to polish, hydrate to plump, and feed your skin with nourishing ingredients. The result? Skin that ages like fine wine—slowly and gracefully. 

We’ve found that defensins in our new product line Defenage is based on Japanese technology of skin stem cell regeneration.  Check out this very technical article!

In Japan, diet is a huge part of skincare. They believe that what you put into your body is just as important as what you put on it. Antioxidant-rich green tea, vitamin-packed seaweed, and fresh fish loaded with Omega-3s keep skin smooth, hydrated, and glowing from the inside out. And don’t forget that healthy dose of collagen-rich bone broths, which helps keep the skin firm and youthful.

3. The Japanese Diet's Superpower

Here’s a fun fact: Japanese women have significantly lower rates of breast cancer than women in other parts of the world, and a lot of that comes down to diet. Soy, especially in its fermented forms like miso and tofu, contains isoflavones that mimic estrogen and help balance hormones—protecting against hormone-dependent cancers like breast cancer.

Seaweed, packed with iodine, keeps the thyroid happy, while anti-inflammatory foods like fish, veggies, and green tea fight off hormonal havoc. In Japan, food isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s a weapon in the fight against disease and hormonal imbalance.

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We hope this blog has helped you learn more about how Japan has influenced many aspects of functional medicine here in the US. If you have more questions about gut, skin or using hormone therapy, we’d love to hear from you. Schedule a consultation with our team of experts at Potentia MedSpa in Lafayette, California or call us at 510 230 2282. We are the only Functional Aesthetics Medspa in the San Francisco Bay Area offering a combination of medical expertise, innovative technology in skin care and holistic support.

Optimize Your Body's Hydration by 300%

Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining overall health, but did you know that simply drinking large quantities of water might not be the most effective way to hydrate? While water is essential, the quality of your hydration matters just as much as the quantity. I’m often asked how incorporating essential minerals and natural beverages can improve your body's water uptake and lead to better health outcomes. Let’s explore this in detail! 

Why Minerals Matter for Hydration

When it comes to hydration, minerals play a key role in helping your body absorb and utilize water efficiently. Here are some of the top minerals that improve water uptake within cells:

1. Magnesium: Essential for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, magnesium helps maintain normal nerve and muscle function, supports a healthy immune system, and keeps the heart beat steady. It also helps regulate blood glucose levels and aids in the production of energy and protein.

2. Potassium: This mineral is crucial for proper cellular function. It helps balance fluids and electrolytes, supports muscle function, and aids in nerve signaling.

3. Sodium: While often associated with high blood pressure, sodium in the right amounts is essential for hydration. It helps maintain fluid balance, supports muscle function, and facilitates nerve signaling.

4. Calcium: Known for its role in bone health, calcium also aids in muscle function and nerve transmission, which are important for hydration.

5. Taurine: An amino acid that plays a role in osmoregulation, helping to maintain cell volume and fluid balance.

Mechanism of Action: How Water Enters Cells

Water moves into our cells through a process called osmosis, where it passes through cell membranes to balance the concentration of solutes (like salts and minerals) on both sides. Minerals such as sodium and potassium are critical in creating the osmotic gradient that drives water into cells, ensuring proper hydration at the cellular level.

Recognizing Symptoms of Inadequate Hydration

Inadequate hydration can lead to various clinical symptoms that affect your overall well-being. Common symptoms include muscle cramps, headaches, migraines, and muscle spasms. For women, dehydration can also cause uterine cramps. These symptoms are signs that your body isn't getting enough water and minerals, highlighting the importance of proper hydration. By staying well-hydrated, you can prevent these discomforts and maintain optimal health.

Hormones and Hydration

Hydration is influenced by several key hormones:

• Cortisol: High levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, can lead to dehydration as it causes the kidneys to retain sodium, disrupting the balance of water and electrolytes.

• Thyroid Hormones: These hormones regulate metabolism, and imbalances can lead to changes in water retention and overall hydration levels.

• Estrogen and Progesterone: These female hormones influence fluid balance. Estrogen can cause fluid retention, while progesterone tends to have a diuretic effect, promoting the excretion of water.

Benefits of Proper Hydration

1. Hair Loss Prevention: Proper hydration supports hair health by ensuring that hair follicles receive adequate nutrients and oxygen.

2. Quality Sleep: Good hydration can improve sleep quality by aiding in the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone.

3. Weight Loss: Hydration aids in metabolism and can help control hunger, as thirst is often mistaken for hunger.

Natural Beverages for Hydration

In addition to water and minerals, certain natural beverages can significantly enhance hydration:

1. Green Juices: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, green juices made from vegetables like spinach, kale, and cucumber provide excellent hydration and nutrient benefits.

2. Celery Juice: Known for its high water content and electrolyte balance, celery juice helps hydrate the body and supports digestion.

3. Herbal Teas:

• Alfalfa Tea: Rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron, alfalfa tea aids in hydration and overall health.

• Horsetail Tea: Contains silica, which helps strengthen bones, hair, and nails while promoting better hydration.

4. Carbonated Water: Limited types of carbonated water can be supportive. Most brands like Lacroix or Waterloo have no medicinal benefit, it just helps make water interesting. However, mineralized carbonated water like Gerolsteiner are packed full of naturally occurring minerals. This is available at your local health food store

Enhancing Hydration with Mineral Drops

Incorporating mineral drops into your daily routine can be highly effective. Products like electrolyte powders, my favorite: Eau de Quinton, and trace mineral drops provide a concentrated source of essential minerals that enhance water absorption. 

These supplements are easy to add to your water and help replenish minerals lost through sweat and daily activities. They support overall cellular function and hydration, making sure your body gets the most out of the water you drink.

I’ve scoured the best hydration products on the market and created a hydration protocol for you if you are looking for a different way to hydrate. I’ve done the hard work for you! Simply click on this link and choose the best support for you.

Choosing the Right Water Bottle

To maintain optimal hydration, it's important to store your water properly. Avoid plastic bottles, which can leach harmful chemicals. Instead, use:

• Glass Bottles with Rubber Netting: These are non-toxic and keep your water tasting fresh.

• Stainless Steel Bottles: Durable and free from chemicals, these bottles are a great alternative to plastic.

Cleaning Your Water Bottles

Regular cleaning is essential to prevent the buildup of bacteria and mold. Here’s how to keep your bottles clean:

• Peroxide: Use a solution of water and hydrogen peroxide to sanitize your bottle.

• Fruit and Vegetable Wash: These solutions can effectively clean your bottle without harsh chemicals.

Conclusion

Optimal hydration goes beyond drinking large quantities of water. Incorporating essential minerals, understanding the role of hormones, and using the right type of water bottle can significantly improve your hydration.

We hope this blog has helped you learn more about the advantages of hydration and how this impacts the most common issues in folks over 40. If you have more questions, we’d love to hear from you. Schedule a consultation with our team of experts at Potentia MedSpa in Lafayette, California or call us at 510 230 2282. We are the only Functional Aesthetics Medspa in the San Francisco Bay Area offering a combination of medical expertise, innovative technology in skin care and holistic support.

Tired of Looking Tired? Discover Natur-Tox at Potentia Medspa

We believe the eyes are the windows to the soul. But sometimes, those windows can show a little wear and tear, with fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles. These signs of aging can make you look tired, stressed, or even older than you are. 

Here at Potentia Medspa, we have the solution: Natur-Tox, a revolutionary treatment using plasma energy is  designed to restore your eye’s youthful vibrancy and radiance.

What can it do? 

Natur-Tox isn't just another eye treatment.  Unlike surgical procedures, Natur-Tox Eyes is non invasive effective non-surgical treatment using plasma energy designed to:

• Erase Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, like crow's feet and under-eye lines, can be a dead giveaway of your age. 

• Eliminate Under-Eye Circles: Tired eyes can make you look years older than you are. Natur-Tox tackles circles and puffiness even the under-eye area 

• Awaken the Collagen Production: Natur-Tox helps to stimulate collagen regeneration, resulting in firmer, plumper skin around the eyes which reverses the signs of aging.

While most people focus on the eye area, we understand that aging often manifests itself in other areas of the face. That's why we offer the option to add on treatments to other key areas that contribute to facial expressions and visible signs of aging, creating a more balanced and youthful look:

• Forehead: Frown lines and horizontal creases on the forehead can make you look tired or grumpy. Adding the Natur-Tox treatment to the forehead area can smooth these lines and create a more relaxed expression similar to Botox.

• Crow’s Feet: Natur-Tox at the corners of your eyes reduces smile lines and can help restore volume and erase the aged look of crow’s feet- no matter if it is deep or fine lines

• Bunny Lines: These fine lines on the bridge of the nose can become more noticeable with smiling or squinting. You can soften the appearance of bunny lines, creating a smoother look.

• Upper Lip: Static Lip lines or barcodes often cause smearing of lipstick. If you’re not a smoker, the lines and folds are due to loss of elastin/ collagen

How does it work?

Natur-Tox Eyes is a safe and effective treatment with minimal downtime.  Plasma energy is an innovative way to resurface the skin. It’s different than RF and Laser. So if you're looking for a non-surgical solution to achieve a smoother, brighter, and more youthful appearance around the eyes, Natur-Tox is the perfect option.

• Consultation: During your initial consultation, our experts will discuss your goals, meticulously evaluate your skin, and answer any questions you may have about Natur-Tox. This is a collaborative process, ensuring you feel confident and informed every step of the way.

• The Treatment: The Natur-Tox procedure is a relatively quick and comfortable experience. Depending on the chosen areas, the treatment can take anywhere from 30 to 45  minutes. We use numbing to minimize discomfort

• Recovery: Downtime is minimal. You will experience some slight redness or swelling from 3-7 days after.  We recommend an after-care protocol to accelerate the healing process.

Ready to Begin?

We hope this article has helped you learn more about Natur-Tox, it’s our signature treatment and works wonders for folks over 40+.  If you have more questions, we’d love to hear from you. Schedule a consultation with our team of experts at Potentia MedSpa in Lafayette, California or call us at 510 230 2282. 

We are the only Functional Aesthetics Medspa in the San Francisco Bay Area, offering a combination of medical expertise, innovative technology in skin care, and holistic support for midlife hormone changes.

XO

Dr. Vera

The Power of Body Contouring: Beyond Vanity to Vitality

Body contouring has emerged as a powerful anti-aging treatment, offering a comprehensive approach to addressing various signs of aging beyond just vanity.

Through techniques like skin tightening, cellulite reduction, fat removal, and muscle toning, body contouring enhances physical appearance and also promotes a more youthful and rejuvenated mindset.

I don't know about you, but seeing loose, saggy skin reminds me of this fact: my hormones are changing and shifting the architecture of my body.

Let's face it, we all are getting older, but your mindset is what makes the wo(man).

Being over 40, you can no longer be lazy with food choices, exercise, and mental health. The blueprint for how your physiology presents in your 4th decade of life and beyond is being shaped right now.

Adipose tissue is inflammatory. Full Stop.

So the quicker you eliminate and recalibrate how your body stores it, best believe you'll get an all-over recalibration. Insulin and Leptin resistance is the real epidemic and this is why we are seeing GLP-1 weight loss drugs make incredible transformations for people.

But some of us don’t want to take prescriptions, or use drugs to lose weight, but can’t muster the willpower to do the workouts to burn fat, or just don’t have the time, here is where body contouring can make a difference.

In 30-60 minutes 1x/week for 5-10 weeks, you can break this inflammatory cycle of fat tissue calling the shots.

Why consider non-surgical body sculpting?

Non-surgical body sculpting aims to redefine your body’s shape and smooth your skin. Here at Potentia Medspa, we’ve brought on PHYSIQ, a non-invasive energy-based solution that you can multiple areas of the body. It works for all skin types and body sizes.

How does PHYSIQ work to remove fat?

PHYSIQ not only removes fat, it also improves muscle tone. It targets subcutaneous adipose ( fat) tissue and muscle with its unique STEP technology. The deep heat phase from PHYSIQ’s super luminescent diode matrix (SDM) targets adipose tissue while electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) creates muscle contractions to re-educate the muscle in the targeted area.

If you are over 40, building muscle mass is critical right now…

Have you noticed less muscle mass and decreased muscle tone from fasting, previous dieting or even weight loss drugs from your 30s? Body contouring techniques, using electromagnetic muscle stimulation, can help tone and strengthen muscles, resulting in what I call the ultimate jumpstart.

Well Dr. Vera, how is body contouring relevant to anti-aging?

Since our Medspa acquired PHYSIQ earlier this year, we’ve had some pretty incredible results with physical transformations as well as behavioral changes with our early adopter clients.

Yes, we saw reduced skin laxity, cellulite disappear, fat accumulation vanish in stubborn areas- all signs of anti-aging.

But most importantly we saw vitality shifts:

• Muscle tone strengthening from PHYSIQ resulted in a client signing up for pilates classes for the first time in her life

• Belly flattening with PHYSIQ encouraged a client to finally start eating a diet that didn’t cause her digestive bloating and upset

• Gluteal (butt lifting) with PHYSIQ gave another client the confidence to finally wear clothing that was flattering. She bought a new outfit to wear on her 1st date in over 4 years.

As you know, vitality adds years to one's life, but also ensures those years are lived with vitality, functionality, and quality. I’m all for living up to the best of my potential, aren’t you?

Grab your appointment for a consultation 24/7 using this link & learn more about body contouring with us at Potentia MedSpa in Lafayette, CA at 510 230 2282

XOXO

Dr. Vera

Press Release: Expansion and Rebranding to Potentia Med: Elevating Holistic Care with Functional Aesthetics

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dr. Vera Singleton, ND, MBA Announces Bold Expansion and Rebranding to Potentia Med: Elevating Holistic Care with Functional Aesthetics

Lafayette, CA – Dr. Vera Singleton, a trusted name in Naturopathic Functional Medicine in the Bay Area is proud to announce its exciting expansion and rebranding as Potentia Med. This transformation marks a significant upgrade in the way we provide care, aligning with our commitment to enhance the well-being of our valued clients.

The word "Potentia," meaning power, perfectly encapsulates the essence of our evolution as we adapt to the changing needs of our community. This strategic rebranding process reflects our dedication to next-level holistic care and the incorporation of functional aesthetics to address the diverse health concerns of our clientele.

While we remain steadfast in offering all our popular and highly rated programs, including Digestion and Gut Health, Perimenopause Support, and Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT), our expansion into aesthetic medicine marks an exciting new chapter in our journey.

As we emerge from the challenges posed by the pandemic, we recognize the profound impact it has had on various aspects of our lives, from increased stress levels to premature peri/menopause transitioning. We understand that these experiences have not only affected us emotionally but have also taken a toll on our physical well-being, causing signs of rapid aging.

Drawing from our combined 18 years of experience in holistic skincare from the inside out, our team has undergone extensive training with leading aesthetic trainers across the country. We are now equipped with the latest protocols and therapies to elevate the appearance and performance of your skin.

Our forthcoming offerings at Potentia Med will not only restore youthfulness but will also include targeted therapies specifically designed to reverse the damage caused by UV radiation, long-term effects of acne and hair loss. Cutting-edge treatments such as PRP/F, Plasma and Microneedling are essential tools for rebuilding healthier, rejuvenated skin.

We are excited to embark on this transformative journey and reaffirm our commitment to providing comprehensive and innovative care to our valued clients. Potentia Med represents a powerful blend of time-tested expertise in natural medicine and cutting-edge approaches to elevate your overall well-being. For more information and to stay connected with our practice, please visit our website at [www.drverasingleton.com].

About Potentia Med:

 Dr. Vera Singleton ND, MBA/Potentia Med is a leading functional medicine and aesthetics practice in Lafayette, CA dedicated to offering comprehensive Naturopathic care and a commitment to holistic well-being, Potentia Med is embarking on a transformative journey, into using regenerative medicine to elevate our client’s expanding needs.

Press Contact:

Vera Singleton, ND, MBA

CEO/CMO

Dr. Vera Singleton/Potentia Med

510-230-2282

Contact us

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