1. IDENTITY
 

Successful weight loss starts with a core shift in your identity. Let’s be real – weight loss is difficult! It demands dietary discipline and behavioral change, both of which put our bodies in a state of stress and discomfort. Unless we prepare ourselves mentally for a lifelong commitment, we are bound to regain the weight back.
 

Think about the habits you perform effortlessly every day like brushing your teeth or commuting to work. These behaviors feel automatic because they have become a part of your identity. They align with who you are and the outcomes you desire to achieve. In the same way, when you begin to see yourself as a healthy person and embrace a healthier identity, over time, your dietary choices and behaviours begin to align with that identity and will become second nature rather than an effort.


 

2. CALORIES
 

Caloric restriction is the most fundamental pillar in weight loss. The first law of thermodynamics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or changed from one form to another. This principle certainly applies to weight loss, and we consistently see individuals lose weight when they are on a caloric deficit regardless of what food they eat (even if it’s just burgers!).

 

Weight loss is multi-factorial; however, it is almost impossible to lose weight if your caloric intake is greater than your caloric expenditure. Healthy and successful weight loss involves a calculated caloric deficit in addition to addressing other factors such as stress, poor sleep, or medical conditions like hypothyroidism.

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3. NUTRITION
 

Holistic and preventative care are at the core of our values. That’s why we place special emphasis on your nutritional status when designing a weight loss program. Our goal is to ensure that you continue to receive balanced nutrition throughout, and that when you transition off your diet plan, you can restore optimal levels of carbohydrates, protein, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

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4. EXERCISE
 

Exercise is a fantastic way to not only burn extra calories but also enhance your overall physical and mental well-being. Regular exercise boosts energy, strengthens muscles, decreases cardiovascular risk, reduces stress, and improves mood. However, to ensure your workouts are both safe and effective, professional guidance is key. A qualified coach or healthcare professional can design a personalized exercise plan that aligns with your weight loss goals, physical abilities, and health needs.

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5. GENETICS
 

Genetics play a major role in determining your level of success with weight loss. Individual differences in metabolism, response to exercise, and average body weight are largely shaped by genetic variations. This is why it is essential to focus on your own journey instead of comparing yourself to others. True success comes from reaching your “optimal weight” and being in a state of health, both physically and mentally!

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6. MEDICAL CONDITIONS
 

One of the primary advantages doctors have over dietitians when it comes to weight loss is their ability to screen, diagnose, and treat underlying medical conditions that may contribute to weight gain. Effectively managing these conditions can have a significant impact on your results. Examples of medical conditions that can cause weight gain include hypothyroidism, PCOS, diabetes, and Cushing's syndrome.

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7. MEDICATIONS
 

Medication management for weight loss includes identifying and, when possible, substituting weight-promoting drugs such as some antidepressants with alternatives that have a more favourable metabolic profile. It also involves monitoring for and addressing side effects associated with weight loss medications, including GLP-1 agonists, and prescribing them appropriately when indicated. In addition, healthcare professionals play an important role in supporting patients through recovery and long-term management following bariatric surgery.

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8. PSYCHOLOGY
 

Holistic weight management encompasses both the body and the mind. Therapies such as CBT help individuals identify and overcome barriers to change, recognize high-risk times for overeating, manage emotional and stress related eating, and challenge permission thoughts that justify unhealthy choices. By addressing these psychological factors, individuals can develop healthier habits and create sustainable behavioural change.

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9. SOCIOECONOMICS
 

Successful weight management programs recognize that socioeconomic factors play a vital role in shaping an individual’s ability to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Effective plans go beyond caloric and exercise recommendations, they consider the practicality of each recommendation by accounting for factors like the individual’s disposable income, food security, cultural background, gym access, time constraints, and transportation. By personalizing strategies accordingly, weight management plans become more sustainable and realistic for long-term success.

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10. COACHING
 

Personalized coaching means that you will be given the support you need at every step of your weight loss journey, creating strategies that work for you and building confidence. A professional coach provides structure and accountability, helping you stay consistent and motivated while adapting new strategies along the way. Additionally, a Naturopathic Doctor often performs comprehensive blood work to uncover barriers to weight loss and can offer supportive therapies to further enhance your body’s ability to lose weight.