*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.

"My blood pressure is down, my cholesterol is down, my weight is down – and my self-esteem is way up."

As I approached my 50^th birthday, my weight was out of control. My trainer at my gym told me to speak to another gym member, who was a “diet doctor.” I sought out Dr. Giannakopoulos (“Dr. G”), and made an appointment with The Center for Medical Weight Loss, which turned out to be one week prior to my turning 50.

At our first consultation, I was told that I was one pound shy of being morbidly obese. When I read the pamphlets, longevity was not in my future.

Dr. G discussed our plan of attack, and my initial thought was that I couldn’t possibly follow what he prescribed with shakes and bars. He must be out of his mind. He told me to go home and empty all of the food out of my house, except for the shakes and bars.

I went home, got a garbage bag, and threw everything out, but gave the closed and unopened food to neighbors. And so my journey began.

Initial Weight Loss Challenges

The first day was tough. I found a can of corn in my pantry that I wound up eating at 2am, starving. But the shakes were actually delicious, especially the mocha flavor, and the bars were better than any chocolate bar I’d ever eaten.

One week later, on my 50th birthday, my first weigh-in took place. I’d lost 12 pounds! How could this be? I paid attention to everything Dr. G told me, including tips on how to get past the hunger and the moods. And weighing in 12 pounds lighter certainly was a special gift.

Weight Loss Success

Nine months and almost 90 pounds later, I feel incredible. Dr. G has taught me how to save my own life. The office staff, Dawn and Sarah, are especially helpful and a constant source of support.

I’ve recommended numerous friends to Dr. G with the simple instruction to just listen to what he has to say and then follow it. This has become a “weigh of life” for me. I’m not hungry; I do eat foods other than shakes and bars, and have learned what makes me gain weight, what helps me lose weight, and what helps me keep it off. I sincerely feel that I can follow this “weigh of life.”

I work out five to six times per week and never thought I could be at the gym at 5:30am and actually enjoy it. My blood pressure is down, my cholesterol is down, my weight is down – and my self-esteem is way up. I really feel this ultimate change in my life would have been impossible without the help and guidance from the CMWL team.

This was the best birthday present I ever gave to myself.

Mark N.'s Weight Loss Success Tips

Favorite CMWL Product:Protein bars.

Top Tip to Stay Motivated:Believe you can do it, then take action!

What I Like Best About CMWL:I can always have a place to go when I feel stuck. Dr. G is a great source of information, and inspiration.