Posts by Cesar A. Lara | Panache Vue' Magazine

The Clinical Option Of HCG In Your Journey To A Healthier And Thinner You.

May 15, 2013 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

With the summer months approaching and longer sun filled days enticing us all to enjoy the beach, our desire to get our bodies fit for swimsuits is very real.

There is a clinical tool available to facilitate a more robust start or restart in the losing of inches. Consider this option not only for swimsuit season, but as one begins to implement a long-term strategy of lifestyle modification and ultimately, transformation. The option is the use of HCG.

HCG stands for Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, which is a hormone that women produce in significantly high levels during pregnancy (500,000 to 1,000,000 units / day). It is generally believed that its purpose is to ensure that regardless of whether the mother eats or not, the unborn baby will get its nutrition via a facilitated and more direct breakdown of fat, hence creating a constant source of calories.

HCG in small amounts (100 to 300 units / day) has been used in both genders since the mid 1950s to aid in weight loss. Thousands of persons swear by the results that they have achieved. However it has been very controversial, as the original Italian physician who first promoted it for weight loss also tied it to an extremely low calorie diet of 500 calories / day.

The scientific community has done studies that showed that the amount of weight lost with a 500 calorie plan was similar between groups of people taking HCG and those not taking HCG, hence a large majority have concluded that HCG is no better than a placebo. Further clinical evidence advices against such restricted 500-calorie diets due to potential starvation mode elicited in the body, in addition to concerns of safety.

On the other hand there is now clinical evidence that it is not just the amount of weight loss that needs to be compared; but also the source of weight loss that is important. Specifically it is the desire to lose the “ FAT” weight and not the “MUSCLE “ weight, and if someone is put on a very low calorie diet, the problem is that the person will lose too much muscle, (lean body mass) which is in direct proportion to that person’s metabolic rate. In addition, recent studies have clearly concluded that improving and increasing lean body mass directly decreases insulin resistance, which is the culprit in obesity. HCG treated patients have shown that the amount of muscle loss is half the amount as those following a similar diet but without HCG.

The story that we hear and see often is that a person on an HCG protocol will noticeably see inches shrink on the areas of their body where the fat accumulates the most. It is especially helpful in persons with the “pear shaped” body where the weight is accumulated in the hips and thighs. With many diets, the “pear shaped” body type will many times find their upper body, especially their face, begin to look “too thin” despite the fact that their lower half still has significant excess. The volume of a pound of fat is significantly larger than the volume of a pound of muscle, and hence, as more fat is released, the more volume or inches one’s body shrinks.

HCG is a regulator of hormones, which is of great value in patients with excess weight, as their condition is an expression of an imbalance in their hormonal state. Specifically, HCG regulates many hormones including thyroid and the sex hormones, most notably testosterone. It is used clinically in males to help increase their own production of testosterone, and it is also used in females seeking treatment for infertility. The improvement in the testosterone levels of those on HCG most likely is the reason why muscle weight loss is minimized as the testosterone turns on an anabolic state in the body whereby it promotes muscle development.

In our practice we use mainly the injectable type of HCG. There has been controversy regarding the use of oral forms as recent studies have shown there are no detectable levels of HCG except when the injectable type is used. The FDA (Federal Drug Administration) has been warning consumers that the

Homeopathic HCG products typically marketed as weight loss aids, and sold via the Internet and stores, usually in the form of drops and pellets, are illegal and unproven.

As in any nutritional plan that helps shed of the excess weight, keeping it off is the real story. In our practice, we see a large amount of patients that had done what they thought was HCG in the past and obtained good results, but were not maintainable and they regained their weight plus more. Of course this story resonates with all nutritional plans as most people doing diets only focus on “you can eat this and not that “ for a certain period of time. Afterwards they resume their usual and customary habits, which lead them to gain weight initially and will continue to do so always.

However with those patients doing a very low calorie diet on their own and taking what they thought was HCG, it would make sense that they would initially lose the weight dramatically as 500 calories is drastic. The problem is their weight was lost not only in fat, but also in larger amounts of muscle, which subsequently lowered their metabolism and predisposed them to insulin resistance. That in turn, primed them for quick and unhealthy regain, even though their caloric intake was still low.

In my experience, when HCG is used with close medical management of a very low calorie nutritional plan, it can facilitate a great start. It is used in cycles of four or six weeks; and in between cycles, the nutritional plan is adjusted. Some people do a cycle to get a good start and develop the confidence to be on their journey to a healthy weight. Others use a cycle once they reach a plateau in their weight loss journey, and many see the benefits of helping reshape their body by facilitating the loss of inches in the stubborn areas of their body.

A healthy lifestyle transformation is the goal of any nutritional plan that helps release excess weight, and is ultimately the true measure of success. A successful plan should not only focus on the amount of pounds lost, but more importantly on its inherent ability to help transition into a healthier and maintainable weight. This requires the understanding that it is not a quick fix but a long-term commitment where education, guidance and support are paramount.

Although there are many tools to help aid in our journey to a healthier thinner self, the tool that is the most important is your mind and the thoughts that are elicited every single day. Hence despite great opportunities to help in the rebalancing of our hormones, and improvement in insulin resistance, in my humble opinion, the real goal is the ability to maintain that healthier weight, not a quick fix. That goal can only be achieved if you give yourself the love and commitment to change your lifestyle and recognize that all is possible. You just need to visualize, believe and work at seeing it actualize.

Dr. César A. Lara

César A. Lara, M.D. is a Board Certified family physician and a leading expert in the field of medicine, the treatment of obesity, and weight loss management. For more than 20 years, it has been Dr. Lara’s passion to become a positive force in America’s ever-growing obesity crisis…one patient at a time. Dr. Lara’s dream of helping men and women overcome diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and other chronic conditions related to obesity was realized with the emergence of the César A. Lara, MD; Center for Weight Management as a premier weight loss center in Tampa Bay. A graduate of the University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Dr. Lara is known for his strong personal faith and his generous contributions to the Tampa Bay community. Dr. Lara regularly appears on television as a medical contributor to Brighthouse Network’s Bay News 9 en Español and WTSP-TV Studio 10. He frequently participates in corporate health fairs promoting an active lifestyle and healthy weight loss options. He is the founder of St. Michael’s Free Clinic and Weight Away Tampa Bay, charitable organizations that provide free medical treatment to those who cannot afford it.

Filed Under: 2013, Health, May 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Business, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Health, Physician, South Tampa, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Diabesity

April 18, 2013 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

It affects one out of every two persons. This condition makes people sick, fat, tired and eventually limits their life and livelihood. It causes heart disease, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, infertility, dementia, sexual dysfunction, cancers and many other life limiting problems. Diabesity refers to the process and continuum from mildly elevated glucose and insulin levels to the full-blown diagnosis of Diabetes. It is in direct correlation to the degree of insulin resistance. Eighty percent of overweight persons are affected by it along with forty percent of persons with normal weight (skinny fat people who are normal weight but metabolically fat).

Insulin resistance develops as a consequence of social, genetic and environmental factors but its primary driver is the food we eat. The main offenders are the simple, refined and processed carbohydrates like pasta, bread, rice, and most starches, along with the use of rapidly observing sugars and liquid calories. These foods increase our cellular glucose and insulin levels and over a period of time, the cells develop resistance to insulin. In turn the pancreas produces more insulin to process the normal and elevated glucose levels. Insulin although necessary for life at normal levels, when elevated causes disease, rapid cellular aging and is the strongest fat making hormone in our bodies.

The good news is that diabesity is completely reversible. Insulin resistance is propagated by the persistent and progressive elevation of blood glucose, which in turn is elevated as a consequence of the high glucose producing foods we eat.

The key to the reversal of diabesity is first and foremost understanding and appreciating that regardless of the state of health that one may be experiencing, we have the power and ability to effect a positive change if we so desire and commit to the change we want. The mind and the thoughts we nurture and listen to color our experience and influence the creation of the life we live.

What we eat directly influences the cellular function of the human body and to reverse Diabesity requires that we focus our life’s journey on incorporating a healthier life style, where we make smarter choices in the foods we put in our mouth.

The goal with proven scientific evidence is to stop eating the foods that create the high glucose surges that are making us ill and instead focus on a nutritional plan where we eat more lean proteins like chicken, fish and tofu. Our plates should be full of color with different vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, beans and whole grains. These will complement a healthier choice.

Exercise, especially in our sedentary society is extremely important. Although aerobic exercise like walking, biking, treadmill, jogging are mentally and physically helpful as it relates to diabesity, anaerobic exercise like weight training, where the goal is to increase lean body mass has been shown to be very valuable in decreasing insulin resistance.

As we incorporate a lifestyle of a less carbohydrate load to our bodies and begin to increase our lean body mass, not only will our waistlines shrink but more importantly, the insulin resistance will resolve and your sense of well being and energy will return.

Supplements that will reinforce and strengthen your path to resolve diabesity are:

Omega fish oils with a daily EPA/DHA of 2500-5000 mg
Vitamin D-3 with optimal blood levels around 70
Alpha Lipoic acid 150-300 mg twice daily
Chromium Polynicotinate 200-400 mcg daily
Green tea
A good multivitamin and biotin
A prescription medicine that is very helpful is Metformin.

The supplements that are best for an individual should be decided through a medical consultation.

Other factors that are important components of a healthier lifestyle are:

Drinking eight to ten glasses of water daily.
Sleeping an average of 7-8 hours per night.
Stop drinking or eating foods whose list of ingredients reflect chemicals made in a lab, or ingredients you do not recognize.
Whenever possible and as often as possible buy and eat organically grown foods and keep away from genetically modified foods (GMO).
Stress increases cortisol levels in our bodies, which in turn increases insulin resistance. You need to be mindful of the stress you experience or are exposed to and remember to breathe and engage in stress management techniques or exercises that will help keep you alert and focused and not overwhelmed. Yoga and meditation are excellent choices.

You have the power to change, so visualize the life you want, the health you desire; practice reinforcing a belief in the positive outcome that is to come and let life’s miraculous creative ways actualize in the life you live.

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2013, April 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Spring Into Action

March 17, 2013 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

Flowers are in bloom, leaves are returning to the trees…Spring is in the air! All of the messages in nature are telling us that a new day for growth and possibility is here. At each of our locations, we meet hundreds of new faces every single week. These people come from different walks of life and each have unique motivations for their weight loss goals, however, they all have one thing in common; they are “springing into action” to create their life of optimal health.

Unlike the bumble bee, which innately follows the cues of nature, we often times need a bit more of a “nudge” to move in the right direction. Sometimes that nudge is a physical one and at other times it is less tangible. Whether it’s waiting for the right offer or being educated more in the specific area of focus, the proverbial “nudge” helps us spring into action and take the next steps towards our goals. We have consistently recognized this need, and have launched our “Spring Lecture Series” which serves to provide both important information relative to topics such as obesity, diabetes, nutrition and the role each of these plays in the personal journey of weight loss. In these lectures we strive to provide information which can quickly empower people to be educated about the potential health threats they are facing and ultimately be motivated to make a change for the better. Below is a sample of some key elements we focus on to help inform people about the potential risks they may be facing:

Waist Circumference (Relative Risk of Diabetes) ¹
28” – 29” : 1.6 times GREATER RISK of having Diabetes
30” – 31” : 4.6x
31” – 33” : 8.7x
34” – 35” : 12.1x
36” – 37” : 16.7x
> 38” : 22.4x

BMI (Relative Risk of Diabetes) ²
< 21 : 1x
21 – 22.9 : 1.2x
23 – 24.9 : 3.1x
25 – 28.9 : 9.6x
29 – 30.9 : 12.7x
> 31 : 18.1x

Excess Weight ³
For every 2.2lbs of excess weight, the risk of diabetes increases by 9%

Diabetes and Obesity are epidemics in our country with over 68% ⁴ of the population either Obese or overweight and 44% ⁵ Pre Diabetic or Diabetic. The good news is, however, that there are simple and practical ways to live a life of optimal health. At our practice we understand that, although the solutions may be simple in theory, the journey is a challenging one. Many of our staff have walked this journey and are able to provide valuable insight and support for success. If you want to live a healthier, happier and more successful life, I invite you to visit us online or call and RSVP for the next date in our “Spring Lecture Series” which provides additional information about Diabesity and how to live a life of optimal health. Come as my personal guest, and be empowered, as we perform a personalized assessment which will include complimentary blood pressure check, accu check, body fat analysis and metabolic testing as well as healthy refreshments. My staff and I will be there to answer any questions you have and help you “Spring into Action” so that you can BE THE BEST YOU in 2013!

¹ Carey et al. American J. of Epidiol. 1997
² Carey et al. American J. of Epidiol. 1997
³ Mokdad AH. Diabetes Care. 2000
⁴ Flegal KM. JAMA 2012
⁵ CDC.Diabetes Public Health resource. 2011, ADA.Standards of Diabetes Care. 2011, US Census Bureau. 2011

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2013, Health, March 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Journey To Be the Best You

February 10, 2013 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

Many people see the path of weight management and creating lasting change in life as somewhat challenging. Feelings of fear, insecurity, and inadequacy can creep into the mind and heart, leaving some people unable to move forward toward addressing the issues they wish to change. I recognized early that in order for my team, my practice, and myself to help patients create their life of excellence, we were going to have to take an active role as partners on our patients’ journeys. It would be essential for us to not only educate patients from the beginning about what to expect, but also to have a continued role of educating and motivating them every step of the way.

At some point in our life, we have all been faced with creating new behaviors by changing existing habits. Whether it’s weight loss, smoking cessation, starting an exercise routine or committing to personal enrichment, this time of transition holds for you challenge and uncertainty. To maximize success during a given period of change in your life, there are a few key elements which will help:

Education – Learn as much as you can about the journey ahead. Speak with people who have been successful in making the same transition. Speak to professionals in the field, read literature, visit online focus groups, absorb as much as you can about what to expect and how to successfully overcome the challenges that you may face. This will help in alleviating fear and anxiety about the unknown. It is also one of the reasons we spend so much time in our practice working to educate patients each and every step of the way. Then continue to research and learn as you progress along your journey towards the life you desire.

Motivation – Identify in the beginning why you are seeking this change. Is it for better health, to improve mental clarity, spend more time with your loved ones, set an example for your children, to return to activities you used to participate in – whatever your reasons, identify what your motivations are. They will serve as a focusing tool when you are facing moments of doubt and will help realign you with your true path to living the life you desire on the other side of your journey of change.

Support – This key to success should never be overlooked. No matter what journey you are facing, you should not be alone. Rest assured, that there are others in the world who have walked, or are walking, the same path. By finding support through formal groups and other resources, you are increasing your ability to successfully manage the obstacles and transition that exists between who you are today and who you want to be. We provide our patients with online resources of guidance and inspiration, recipes, nutritional, supplements and various support groups to ensure that every tool possible is being provided to assist in this challenging journey of change.

As I tell all of my family, friends and patients…CONGRATULATIONS on taking the first steps to create change in your life! Change is certainly inevitable and can be a beautiful and enriching process. However, no matter how daunting the journey ahead may seem, do not underestimate the power you have within you and the momentum you can gain from properly embarking on your journey. Leverage the guidance of education, the strength of motivation and the stability of support as you move every step closer towards being THE BEST YOU!

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2013, February 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Empowering You: To Achieve Your Life of Excellence

December 17, 2012 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

“There are so many weight loss programs out there, why is yours any different?” This is a question which regularly gets asked of my staff and myself. Simply put, two words: Educate and Motivate.

These are the two tenants by which we partner with our patients to help them achieve the life of excellence that they desire. Throughout our program, we educate each individual about the specific plan which they will be on, and we motivate them to arrive at a place of understanding that whatever is possible is doable – the power lies within them!

When a patient makes the decision to walk through our doors, our first hurdle is not their weight, or even their medical condition, but instead their mind! One of the first steps of the Awakening Phase is empowering our patients to believe that they CAN HAVE the weight which they desire, they CAN LIVE healthy lives, and they CAN ACHIEVE their goals once they choose to change their mindset which is a key element to creating lasting results. Many times, patients come to us and say “I’ve tried every diet out there. I hear you have a great program…but what makes you think that this diet is going to work for me.” The moment you begin this journey of excellence, you must leave “what has happened to you” behind, focus on the things you want and focus on the opportunities that will come into your life as a result of your new mindset and evolved approach to accomplishing your goals.

Once we have established a foundation for motivating our patients, we are ready to help educate them about the program, and how it will assist them on their specific and very personal journey to living a life of excellence. That involves a holistic, science based, approach where we work with each patient to identify an optimal program path towards excellence which includes:

Identifying Healthy Target Weight
Physical & Current Health Assessment
Identify Nutritional Plan
Identify Medicinal Support Tools

During this phase, we Awaken the patient’s perspective to help them understand they have a chronic medical condition. This condition traditionally is created, to a large extent, from behavioral practices, genetics, biochemical responses and many other pathways, but at its core – is a true medical problem, not a function of weakness in character which makes them inadequate. This is unfortunately, a very common thought process for many people who deal with the challenges of excess weight; a thought which, even our medical community as a whole, has continued to support over the years. We use this time to integrate the scientific foundation, that the nutritional program which they are about to begin will create the biochemically driven solution to stabilize the imbalances that may occur as a result of excess weight. This is an important part of the educational process, which motivates patients to feel empowered for the first time in their efforts to achieve their weight loss goals. As well, we educate our patients about the negative impacts that insulin has been having in their body and how making certain nutritional and lifestyle choices can support them in their efforts and propel them closer to their desired life.

Our program has helped thousands of patients achieve their weight loss goals, live healthier lives and ultimately attain new levels of success in all aspects of their life. Our patients understand that as they move closer towards their life of excellence they have the support of our staff, many of whom have been through the program and can empathize with the journey. As well, we offer support groups, recipes, nutritionals and other resources to assist our patients in achieving their goals! Once educated and motivated to truly take ownership in their journey, our patients realize that they are able to maintain a lifestyle of balance, success and happiness. They are responsible for the magnitude of their achievements, and we serve as partners, acting as a light on their journey to the life which they desire. So as you move into the New Year, and are searching for the path to a new you, remember; anything which is possible is doable…the choice is yours – Make the choice today to live YOUR LIFE OF EXCELLENCE!

Cesar Lara, MD

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

It’s Not Just Belly Fat

November 14, 2012 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

Almost one out of every two adults in the US have, or are on their way to developing one of the most devastating and costly medical problems of our time. According to the CDC, in 2010 44% of the adult population had pre-diabetes or diabetes. Diabetes is directly associated with a high risk of stroke, heart disease, and hypertension. It is the leading cause of kidney failure, non-traumatic limb amputation and new cases of blindness. It is the seventh leading cause of death in the US.

The American Diabetes Association estimates the total cost of diagnosed diabetes to be $174 billion. One out of every five dollars spent on healthcare costs is used to treat and care for someone with diabetes.

Diabetes is a medical condition that occurs as a direct consequence of progression of insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is an inflammatory condition where abnormal elevated levels of blood insulin and glucose are manifested which results in thousands of biochemical cellular reactions that ultimately lead to disease.

Genetically there are many who are predisposed to the likelihood of developing insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus. The “switch” to bring about this condition must still be turned on in the genes. The causes that turn on and trigger insulin resistance are visceral adiposity or “belly fat”, lack of exercise, chronic stress, inflammation, smoking and a high glycemic diet with processed foods.

The likelihood of having insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus is 75% higher in a man with a waist size greater than 34 inches when compared to a 32 inch waistline. It is doubled at 36 inches and tripled at 40 inches. Similarly, women with a 36 inch waist have 5 times the likelihood of having diabetes compared to a woman with a 26 inch waist. The risk of developing diabetes when looking at a BMI of 24 is 4 times higher for persons with a BMI ~29 and 6 times higher for BMI of 31.

While there are many treatments for diabetes including many types of oral medications and insulin, it is not uncommon to see a progression of excess weight and the development of other medical problems such as hypertension, high cholesterol and heart disease, even in those patients who follow the traditional recommended diabetic diet and that take their medication.

The reason for the challenge in controlling and eradicating diabetes is in the cause of it – insulin resistance. While it may sound oversimplified, it is now known that the origin of the problem is inflammation, which is rooted in the transformation and development of toxic fat cells in our bodies.

It is no surprise then to recognize the tremendous opportunity that is evident by addressing the root of the problem by empowering our patients to take control of their health and shift their thoughts to focus on “life style modification”, where the daily nutrition will directly impact the inflammatory condition, and where, through weight loss, the toxic fat can be eradicated. This can alleviate the need for medications, or at the very least, decrease their amounts.

The New England Journal of Medicine highlighted a study of over 3000 patients with pre-diabetes . One group was given standard medication which resulted in a reduction in the progression of diabetes at 4 years by 31%. The second group used no medicine but focused on lifestyle change. That group lost 6% of their body weight and had a 58% reduction in the progression of disease. That is nearly twice the reduction of the group that was treated with medication.

In my opinion, the medical literature has an abundance of support and I see it in my daily experience with our patients. Changing to a low carbohydrate diet, where you avoid refined carbohydrates like bread, pasta, rice and any other white carbohydrates (except cauliflower) and avoid sugars, including high fructose corn syrup, desserts , sweets and diet and regular sodas directly impacts the outcome of those with diabetes, such that many patients can totally eliminate their medications as they shed excess weight.

Your nutritional plan needs to include complex carbohydrates like vegetables and whole grains balanced with adequate amounts of protein and good fats. Commercial plans like Atkins and the Mediterranean Diet are different but both have good clinical evidence to support successful outcomes in those who follow them.

While it is evident that diabetes is a devastating condition, it is also evident that as we take responsibility for our own health, we learn and understand that what we eat and experience does directly impact our health; whereby each of us has the power through our own commitment to ourselves to change that condition and instead, experience improved energy and brain function.

May this Thanksgiving be a time of reflection and appreciation of where we are and may it also empower us with the vision to appreciate and make the best of what each of us has and propel us to make a difference in our lives and in those around us.

Cesar Lara MD

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2012, Health, November 2012 - Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Empowering Ourselves

October 22, 2012 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

Through Better Choices, One Step At A Time

It is no secret that our country is facing tremendous financial challenges,and just as we consider the best course to improve and prosper, a deeper and more personal scenario. Surfaces with dreaded consequences, Our health. For it is known that all may be lost but if you got your health, you have opportunities and are blessed.

Our health and that of our families, communities are being taxed by a relentless and aggravating

Obesity epidemic . In 1990 there were only five States in the Country that had Obesity rates of 15% or more, today no state in the country has less than 20 %. In Florida we have 26.6 % obesity according to the CDC, US obesity trends USA.

Today the statistics tell us that two out of every three persons is overweight (BMI greater than 25) and one out of every three is Obese (BMI of 30 or more), with Hispanic and black populations having even worst figures. The percentages for both sexes also worsen as the population ages . The real shocker is that the obesity rates are projected to double in the next thirty years, with the figures for our children now indicating that one out of every three children is obese.

While there are many reasons that we could discuss as to the reasons why? Including Genetics, cultural, social, governmental,etc, the fact is that we have a Clinical condition which has dysfunctional hormonal presentations,most notably insulin resistance which progresses to metabolic syndrome and Diabetes. This creates an inflammatory process which aside from giving us bigger waists and hips propagates a multitude of associated medical conditions.

To illustrate here is a short list of medical conditions associated with increase weight and Obesity that I have gathered from a pool of scientific and medical journals:

A) hypertension, high cholesterol,and insulin resistance where each factor independently increase the risk for heart disease.

B) Strokes; for each unit increase in BMI the likelihood of a hemorrhagic stroke increase by 6% and an ischemic stroke by 4%

C) Pulmonary dysfunction is increased with increased weight, as BMI increase so does the likelihood of Asthma. Obstructive sleep apnea is present in 90% of those patients seeking Bariatric surgery and most people with sleep apnea have BMI of 30 or more.

D) Alzheimer’s dementia risk at age 70 is increased by 36% for each BMI unit above 25.

E) A large amount of data now shows a connection between Obesity and cancer, including colon cancer and Breast cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute 30 % of cancer deaths are attributable to dietary factors.

So with all these factual information excess weight is by far one of the most life threatening and disease causing problems of our times. The current economic impact on our economy is $270 BILLION per year.

On the other hand, unlike other problems to which we feel powerless to change, the problem of excess weight and obesity gives each of us an opportunity to significantly effect and change. The power to effect lies not in some expensive treatment or procedure but in a conscientious decision to take responsibility and charge of our health and learn to make improved and wise choices in what we allow into our mouths.

We must be the attentive guards of what we buy and feed ourselves and our loved ones. For as Hippocrates said “let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” Keep Vigilant for as our society has changed the way food is mass produced and supplied, we must recognize that in an appetizing and seductive delicacy could be our poison.

Recognizing and appreciating that food is Joy, and is associated with great memories of fun, family and friends, the goal needs to be to attain a sense of Balance to our nutrition and Lifestyle.

It is my opinion that our culture of high carbs and low fat has led us to a critical state and to take our health back we must focus, visualize and create a healthier lifestyle and empower our daily lives by learning to make better choices. These would include eliminating or significantly reducing Refined sugars, grains and starches. These hardly give our bodies any satiety and promote high insulin surges which is at the root of the problem. In its place opt for low glycemic fruits,vegetables and whole grains which give your body an increase sense of satiety. Balance your three meals with adequate amounts of protein And I would encourage a few healthy snacks.

Recognize that good fats are good for you and necessary to help you build healthy cells and also play a major role in keeping one satisfied.

So as bad as it is, as long as you have your health anything is possible, so give yourself the power and visualize and believe in a healthier you, and start today by making better choices.

Cesar Lara MD

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2012, Health, October 2012 - Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

You Deserve a Break Today

September 18, 2012 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

“You deserve a break today” is a slogan made famous by a fast food giant, and yet has a deeper message that each of us can apply to our daily lives. What is this message? It is a reminder that we each have value – that we are important. Stating that we need a break, assumes that most of us take care of responsibilities to others before we take care of ourselves. Many people have received a message throughout their life that they are not worth “self-indulgence”, that they don’t deserve to be pampered. But this message gives us permission to indulge and to pamper ourselves, and it is one that we should consider daily.

Let’s consider for a moment, what happens to our bodies when we are so busy taking care of others that we neglect ourselves. Stress is a huge drain on body resources. When we are working too many hours, running kids everywhere, taking care of aging parents or other family, and running a household, we can be sure that sooner or later, the pressures will take their toll and the miraculous machine that is our body, will have some sort of malfunction.

This is why taking care of oneself should be paramount in our daily rituals. Unless we care for ourselves, we cannot effectively take care of others in our lives, and the ones we care about don’t really get the “best” of us. We need to take care of every aspect of ourselves daily: physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Physically, we need to honor our body by preparing healthy food. Food is medicine for our body, and is important to our health, mood and energy level. A balanced day of lean proteins and healthy fruits and vegetables will give us the ability to accomplish that to do list.
Our body needs exercise to stay healthy. It can be challenging to add in exercise time, but 15 minutes a day can make a huge difference. Exercise releases endorphins, which are hormones that make us feel good. We will look and feel better; and that will be reflected throughout your day.

For our mental health, a massage or a facial enhances a feeling of well being and helps rejuvenate and re-energize our mind. At home, a soak in a warm tub filled with soft fragrance, or a few scented candles in the room, and some soft music can be your mini-spa.

Last, but not least is spiritual self care. Most of us are not trained to tap into our spiritual beings, and it requires some effort. We need to be present with ourselves in everything we do, and this is no easy task. This means to pray and/or meditate as we start our day in order to center ourselves. Meditation can be as simple as taking five minutes to close our eyes and breathe deeply to quiet our physical and mental selves before we face the day.

Still crunching time numbers? Do your body and your loved ones a favor, and take care of you. If you take care of the physical, mental and spiritual you, you won’t need “the break today” – although you still deserve it!

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2012, Health, September 2012 – Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Mirror Mirror

July 18, 2012 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

Mirror, mirror on the wall – who is the fairest of them all? This is a question from a lady who wanted validation that she was, indeed, the fairest in the land. This childhood fairy tale demonstrates something that we all need – someone to tell us that we have value. For her, it was a mirror talking to her. For us, it’s a little different. We need to talk to the mirror.

Talking to the mirror may be, at first, a little uncomfortable; and the conversation we need to have can be a little difficult until we get accustomed to having it on a daily basis. After all, how many of us truly feel like we are the “fairest in the land”. For many people, there are instead, these old tapes that play over in our head that say we’re not good enough, we’re not attractive, we’re not as good as others. It’s time to re-record those tapes, and the mirror is the tool to help us.

As you look into the mirror, take an objective look at who is looking back at you. There are some really nice features about that image; a nice smile, good complexion, gentle eyes. Now let’s focus on the eyes a little more deeply. On old proverb states “the eyes are the window to the soul”. Let’s look in the window and see what is in there that we really want.

As we are window shopping, there may be many things we would like to have, but we need to focus on those things that are most important to us. Try to find five things. Once we identify five, we begin to bring those things into our personal universe and learn how they are achievable.

At first, the old little voices plant seeds of doubt and tell us that we are silly to even think about it. But we have identified those five things and the old tapes have already lost their power to keep us feeling badly about ourselves. Now our daily exercise routine is to look in that mirror, in those eyes, every day and say “I want…..” whatever the five things are. Always keep the statement positive – do not use “I don’t want”. For example, you may say “I want to weigh 130 pounds, I want to be healthy, I want to feel more joy, I want to be more successful, I want to appreciate what I see in this mirror.” Once we get past the stage when we feel a little silly talking to our reflection, we find that just this simple exercise can empower us to achieve!

During the day, we can look in our car vanity mirror, the workplace restroom mirror….anyplace where we can look through our eyes, into the windows of our soul and touch those things we want. The more we verbalize those wants, the faster those old tapes completely disappear and we find that looking in the mirror is not the negative it once was. In fact, we have learned the power of positive thinking. Now when we wonder “who is the fairest”, we can feel in our heart that we are worth the answer we get in return – “YOU ARE”.

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2012, Health, July/August 2012 - Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Do I Get Enough Sunshine Vitamin?

May 17, 2012 By Cesar A. Lara 716 Comments

Dr. César Lara

We live in the Sunshine State, and summer is upon us. Do we get enough sunshine for our health? One would think that as much time as we spend in summer at the beach or pool, or just outside with friends, that we would get plenty of the all-important Vitamin D. But, we may not be correct in that assumption. First of all, why is that particular vitamin so important, and secondly, why are we not getting enough from being outside.

Vitamin D has always been known as “the sunshine vitamin”, and you probably know it’s important for bone health. But there are so many other reasons to include Vitamin D in your healthy goals. While it is not a “cure all” for diseases, a deficiency in Vitamin D is now known to be a contributing factor to heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and some types of cancer. A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism indicates that there is a distinct correlation between Vitamin D deficiency and obesity, as low Vitamin D levels are prevalent in people with insulin resistance. Insulin resistance can be a warning sign of impending heart disease, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Now that we have scratched the surface of the importance, let’s look at the reasons why we don’t have enough.

Are you at risk for Vitamin D deficiency? Here’s a short questionnaire:

Do you use sunscreen?
Do you take a shower and use soap within 48 hours after sun exposure?
Do you soak up the sun through a closed glass window?
Do you drink at least 10 tall glasses of Vitamin D fortified milk daily?
Is your skin pigment darker than a very fair complexion?
Do you carry excess weight or fat pads?

While some of these questions may seem a little obvious, they do emphasize the reasons why we as a society, and maybe you, as an individual are low in Vitamin D.

1. Sunscreen is an absolute necessity to help prevent skin cancer, so never stop using it. However, sunscreen can lead to lack of production and absorption. An SPF of 8 can block as much as 95% Vitamin D absorption. Forty percent of your body would have to be exposed to the sun, without sunscreen, between 12 and 2, in order to get absorption of Vitamin D according to VitaminDcouncil.org. Their research indicates that the torso absorbs the most, then arms and legs, lastly hands and face.

2. There have been recent reports indicating that it takes the body up to 48 hours to fully absorb the majority of Vitamin D from the surface of your skin into the bloodstream. Claims have been made that washing your entire body with soap can reduce absorption rates. Water alone does not appear to have that effect. (Natural Society.com)

3. Vitamin D cannot penetrate glass, so if you do your sunbathing on a closed in porch or patio, you are not getting the benefits of the sun.

4. Ten tall glasses of milk per day is a tall order! While you have your Vitamin D for the day, you have increased your intake of sugars and fat.

5. According to Harvard University, people with darker pigmentation or more “melanin” have a great risk of Vitamin D deficiency. This natural sunscreen slows down the absorption of the vitamin from the sun.

6. Excess weight or fat areas decrease the ability to absorb the all important vitamin. May 1st Harvard newsletter indicates that excess weight and lack of Vitamin D go hand in hand.

Now you have reasons you need Vitamin D and reasons you may not have enough. To be sure, have your doctor do a routine blood test and make recommendations for you. Vitamin D supplements are inexpensive and easy to take. And the benefits to your health are huge! Enjoy your summer sunshine safely, and improve your overall health and well being with Vitamin D.

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2012, Health, May/June 2012 - Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Vitamin D

Time to Get Back in the Swing

March 18, 2012 By Cesar A. Lara 25 Comments

Dr. César Lara

Spring in Florida…..time for renewal and awakening…..and for getting all the sports equipment out of the closet! Here’s that football put away before Christmas – that season’s over…baseball and bat? Good idea to hit a few balls….but wait! Here’s the golf clubs! That’s the sign of warmer weather!

As the clubs and shoes are prepared for the season, isn’t it funny to think how we use expressions of golf to describe our feelings? Feeling a little “rough”, somebody “tee-ed” you off, not quite up to “par”? And as we are getting ready for the physical activities of spring, maybe we’re not feeling quite up to “par.” The winter period of inactivity may have put a few extra pounds on us and we’re just not quite feeling ourselves.

Spring is a good time to get a physical – just like in sports, find your strengths and weaknesses. As the few extra pounds come on, it puts stress and strain on the body. You may find your blood pressure a little higher, and maybe feeling a little tired as a result of the extra weight. Some lab work will tell if your cholesterol has increased or perhaps your “sugar” glucose level is elevated. If this is the case, don’t despair.

Diet and exercise seems like a worn out phrase, but it is everything to your body. To get your body ready for spring (just like the clubs and shoes); you need to give it the proper treatments. A diet of healthy fruits and vegetables, along with some protein each meal will go a long way toward getting you back in “the swing” of things. You already know the rules of the game. It’s just putting them into your routine. A few easy tips will help you avoid feeling like you just missed an easy putt. Opt for the grilled chicken instead of fried; make sure 2/3 of your plate is filled with healthy vegetables and fruits. Grilled vegetables basted with a little olive oil are not only healthy, but taste good!

As you “tee off” into your healthy lifestyle, beware of the “sand traps,” processed food whose shelf life is longer than ours! Avoid the “rough” by getting on the treadmill, or better yet, take a walk around your neighborhood each day. Fresh air and our Florida sunshine are great for the physical and mental health. Your health and your mood will improve!

If lab work shows that you need to make some lifestyle changes, it’s not like your ball went in the lake. It’s more that you’re off the green a little and need to get back on. When that happens in your golf game, you have to take stock of where your ball is and where it needs to go next. It’s no different with your health. Figure out where you need to go and take the steps to get there. Before you know it, you will find yourself on the fairway sailing towards a healthy “hole in one.”

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2012, 2012, Health, March 2012 – Tampa Bay, March/April 2012 - North Pinellas/Pasco, North Pinellas / Pasco, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Exercise, Features, Health, HGC Diet, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

HCG Diet: Looking Past the Hype

August 12, 2011 By Cesar A. Lara 1,240 Comments

Dr. César Lara

No body is physiologically built the same as another. So why are there such high expectations for a diet to work the same for everyone? Through its successes and failures, the HCG diet is clear proof that the challenge of losing weight is a unique experience, regardless of the method of choice.

To people outside the medical industry, the HCG diet might appear to be the latest craze hitting our body image obsessed culture. However, this weight-loss method traces back more than 40 years, when the discovery of hCG injections aided in rapid fat loss in obese patients. hCG, short for Human Chorionic Gonadotrpin, is a naturally occurring hormone found in pregnant women. When given in small, regular doses, hCG helps suppress appetites and drop pounds fast without jeopardizing muscle mass. Keeping the muscle mass intact allows for metabolism to remain at a normal rate and helps the patient maintain after weight loss has occurred. It has also proven to reduce stored fat – resulting in loss of inches in trouble areas like the abdomen, hips and thighs.

Sound simple? Not quite. To allow the HCG diet to work to its full potential, injections are coupled with a traditional, low daily caloric intake of only 500 calories. Small portions of lean meat, vegetables and fruits are a standard menu for the HCG diet. Seeing a loss of a pound or more a day is a typical, positive result of this effective method.

There are many patients involved in HCG weight loss programs who experience dramatic, life-changing results, free from any health risks or dangers. Success stories include losing 40 pounds in just over four weeks, decreased cravings and feeling more energized and healthier than ever before. However to others, extreme calorie-cutting and getting poked with a needle might seem too great of a risk in effort to drop unwanted weight. In fact, the latest medical recommendations from the American Bariatric Society confirm a 500 calorie diet is not safe, which is what a large percentage of HCG patients are doing. These potential risks that are being taken without qualified physician care is one of many reasons why HCG is viewed upon so negatively.

The key to making HCG or any medically-assisted diet work is finding an experienced physician who can help determine the best plan for a patient’s unique body. The right physician understands the complexity of obesity and the nature of each one of their patients. At our practice, we take the core benefits of HCG, but modify the nutritional plan with an increased calorie intake in order to promote healthy, safe weight loss. By doing this, our patients can sustain their weight loss well after the six week time period HCG can be utilized – a limitation of the diet not always made clear to patients. Our approach involves getting to know lifestyles, breaking down health habits and honing in on individual needs. From here, patients can be provided with customized tools and plans optimized to work with their personal body composition. If the HCG diet is determined as the most effective solution, our physicians will build a program that highlights HCG as one tool amongst many that helps contribute to an overall lifestyle change – not just a quick fix designed to work alone. Joining a credible physician assisted program is critical to continued success after the program. This will ensure a patient will remain vested in their journey, while utilizing other tools to help transition into a long-term maintenance program.

Treating HCG like any other one-size-fits-all fad diet is where the negativity and misconceptions stem. With a supportive physician, lifestyle modifications and a customized program, our practice will ensure a successful weight loss journey and help discover a thinner, healthier new you.

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2011, 2011, August 2011 - South Tampa, August 2011 - Tampa Bay, Health, South Tampa, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, HGC Diet, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Through Better Choices, One Step At A Time

PanacheVue' May 2013