*In a CMWL multicenter randomized trial involving 550 patients who followed a CMWL Low-Calorie Diet (LCD) or Modified LCD Program, both with and without appetite suppressants, the average weight loss was 2 pounds per week over a 12-week period. The research was wholly funded by an independent third party with the exception of travel expenses. According to a study published in The American Journal of Medicine, participants completing a 12-week medical weight loss program lost 11.1% of their body weight, on average. Results may vary.

"Being both a CMWL doctor and patient, I have first-hand knowledge of how well this program has worked. I will never be overweight again."

In July 2010, I decided to open my own Center for Medical Weight Loss (CMWL). While not obese, I was certainly overweight and just didn’t feel as healthy as I wanted. I had lost weight on Atkins in 2003 only to gain it back about 6 months later. Before I started CMWL, I had also been exercising regularly for over a year and didn’t see the weight loss results I had hoped for.

I found out about CMWL from a colleague who had opened a center in another state. She explained that the program was safe, effective, and rather easy to understand and follow.

Dr. Pinto’s Weight Loss Journey

My weight loss journey began with the grand opening of my first Center for Medical Weight Loss in Bellmawr, NJ. (I now have two locations.) I started the modified LCD at the same time that many of my patients were starting the program. I had a shake for breakfast, a shake for lunch, and a bar for a snack. At home I had a sensible dinner under 550 calories and a healthy snack before bed. In three months I went from a 36-inch waist to a 33-inch waist.

This program is easy to follow, and the body composition reports really keep you motivated. Because I was both the doctor and the patient for my program, I had to keep myself motivated, but found it very rewarding each time I stepped on the body composition analyzer and saw the fat loss.

I really had no challenges with the exception of getting used to eating smaller portions. It didn’t take more than a few weeks to understand I was overeating prior to starting the plan.

Best Parts of Losing Weight

The increase in energy, the compliments I get almost daily, and the overall feeling of well-being are the best parts of losing the weight. I also saw significant improvements in my fasting blood sugars, my cholesterol, and my triglycerides without the use of medication.

I have relearned how to eat. I still eat pizza but instead of three slices I’ll have one or two slices. I still use the shakes and bars as meal replacements from time to time, and I weigh myself weekly to see if I’m gaining weight. The program taught me to compensate for days when I may go over my caloric limit. I will never be overweight again.

Being both a CMWL doctor and patient, I have first-hand knowledge of how well this program works. You have nothing to lose, so I would recommend trying it, whether it’s at one of my centers or at one of my CMWL colleague’s centers. You won’t regret it.

Dr. Pinto's Weight Loss Success Tips

Favorite CMWL Product:Fudge Graham Bar.

Top Tip to Stay Motivated:Focus on short-term goals and realize that you need a healthier lifestyle to lose weight and keep it off.

What I Like Best About CMWL:The quick weight loss in the beginning really motivates you to continue.