Weight is a health issue — not a character flaw. If you are struggling with your weight and want medical support to make lasting changes, Mace Avenue Medical is here to help with a compassionate, evidence-based approach that respects your dignity and your goals.
Our team in the East Bronx understands that weight management is rarely simple. Genetics, hormones, medications, stress, sleep, food access, and life circumstances all play roles. We do not offer quick fixes or shaming — we offer medical partnership.
Why Medical Weight Management?
While lifestyle changes are always central to weight management, a physician-led approach offers advantages that self-directed dieting cannot:
- Medical evaluation — Identifying underlying conditions (like hypothyroidism or insulin resistance) that contribute to weight gain
- Personalized planning — A weight management strategy tailored to your health history, not a generic program
- Medication options — When appropriate, prescription medications can be effective tools for weight loss
- Monitoring — Regular check-ins to assess progress, adjust the plan, and keep you accountable
- Coordination — Referrals to dietitians, behavioral health specialists, or bariatric surgeons when appropriate
Our Approach to Weight Management
Step 1: Assessment
We start with a thorough evaluation including:
- BMI calculation and body composition discussion
- Review of health history and medications that may affect weight
- Lab work (thyroid, blood sugar, hormones, lipids)
- Discussion of your weight history, previous attempts, and personal goals
Step 2: Education and Lifestyle Planning
We provide realistic, evidence-based guidance on:
- Nutritional approaches (caloric balance, macronutrient awareness, portion guidance)
- Physical activity recommendations appropriate for your fitness level and health
- Sleep optimization (poor sleep is strongly linked to weight gain)
- Stress management and emotional eating patterns
Step 3: Medical Interventions (When Appropriate)
For patients who qualify, we may discuss:
- Prescription weight loss medications (including GLP-1 receptor agonists and other approved therapies)
- Management of conditions that impair weight loss (e.g., thyroid therapy, insulin optimization in diabetes)
Step 4: Ongoing Support
Weight management is a long-term process. We schedule regular follow-up visits to:
- Track your progress
- Adjust the plan as needed
- Address barriers and challenges honestly
- Celebrate milestones
Health Conditions Linked to Excess Weight
Managing your weight is not just about how you look or feel in the short term. Excess weight is a documented risk factor for:
1
Type 2 diabetes
2
High blood pressure (hypertension)
3
Heart disease and stroke
4
Sleep apnea
5
Joint pain and osteoarthritis
6
Certain cancers (colorectal, breast, endometrial)
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Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
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Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Achieving and maintaining a healthier weight — even a modest 5–10% reduction — can measurably improve many of these risk factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my primary care doctor help me lose weight?
Yes. Your primary care provider at Mace Avenue Medical can evaluate the medical factors contributing to your weight, provide evidence-based lifestyle guidance, and discuss prescription medication options when appropriate. We can also refer you to dietitians, behavioral health specialists, or bariatric surgeons if needed.
What weight loss medications are available?
Several FDA-approved prescription medications are available for weight management, including GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, liraglutide), phentermine-topiramate, and others. Eligibility depends on your BMI, health history, and other factors. Your provider will discuss options that may be appropriate for you.
How much weight do I need to lose to see health benefits?
Research shows that losing as little as 5–10% of body weight can produce meaningful health improvements — including lower blood pressure, better blood sugar control, and reduced joint stress. Even modest weight loss is worth pursuing.
Is weight management covered by insurance?
Coverage for weight management services varies by insurance plan. Many plans cover obesity counseling as a preventive service. Some prescription weight loss medications may be covered under pharmacy benefits. Call our office at (718) 652-4647 to discuss your specific coverage.
Can weight gain be caused by a medical condition?
Yes. Hypothyroidism, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), insulin resistance, certain medications (including antidepressants, steroids, and some blood pressure drugs), and hormonal imbalances can all contribute to weight gain. We evaluate these factors as part of your weight management assessment.
