Low-carb, low-fat, fasting, juice cleanses — these are all fad, diet trends with the promise to help you lose those pesky pounds. However, most of these options aren’t safe or sustainable in the long term. Deborah B. Horn, DO, MPH, obesity medicine specialist, suggests a more healthy alternative — the UT Physicians Center for Obesity Medicine and Metabolic Performance (COMMP).
Obesity is recognized globally as a chronic disease, and like treatment for other chronic conditions, the assistance of an expert physician is needed. As the director of the center, Horn collaborates with a team of specialists to help provide a physician-led approach for individualized care to those struggling with their weight.
“Our focus is on lifelong intervention by creating new, healthy habits; recognizing psychological barriers; and interrupting physiology that promote weight gain through anti-obesity medication,” said Horn, who is also an assistant professor in the Department of Surgery at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth. “There’s a balance to achieve that creates the best quality of life for our patients.”
In addition to weight loss, patients can expect an improvement in other health issues related to obesity, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and even risk of complications from COVID-19.
Horn recommends the program to those ages 18 and up who have tried to lose weight and keep it off or have a body mass index of 25 or greater.
UT Physicians COMMP has three locations across the Greater Houston area. Visit their page for additional information or call 888-4UT-DOCS to schedule an appointment.
“One thing I want everyone to know and remember is that it’s not your fault; it’s your physiology,” said Horn. “Obesity can cause individuals to experience inappropriate stigma and bias. We would love to help you experience successful, compassionate, and science-based care.
