*Practice is limited to non-surgical weight loss
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Andrea Johnson, MD

As a young person, in my teens and twenties, I was generally athletic and maintained a normal weight. I loved to play in the outdoors…hiking, backpacking, mountaineering, rafting and even a little rock-climbing. But then came medical school and residency...... More

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Combining GLP-1 Therapy with Lifestyle Changes: A Winning Formula for Obesity

GLP-1 medication weight loss treatment is changing how we help women reach healthier weights. But even with powerful prescription tools like this, success still depends on how we treat our bodies every day. That’s why, here at the clinic, we don’t just hand over a prescription and hope for the best. We look at the full picture.

Why GLP-1 Medications Matter

GLP-1 medications like Semaglutide (often branded as Wegovy or Ozempic) are designed to help with more than just cravings. They regulate appetite, slow digestion, and improve blood sugar control. For many women struggling with obesity, especially those dealing with insulin resistance or hormonal imbalance, these medications offer a helpful reset.

But let’s be honest: medication alone isn’t the whole story.

What We’ve Seen: GLP-1 Weight Loss Before and After

We’ve worked with women who’ve tried diet after diet with no long-term success. After starting GLP-1 medication weight loss treatment and combining it with smart lifestyle choices, their results finally stick. Before, they were stuck in a cycle of losing and regaining. After, they feel in control.

One of the biggest changes we notice isn’t just on the scale. It’s in confidence, energy, and overall mood.

Let’s Talk About Diet

Starting a GLP-1 treatment doesn’t mean food doesn’t matter anymore. In fact, the medication works better when paired with a balanced diet. We help you focus on lean proteins, fiber-rich vegetables, healthy fats, and fewer processed carbs. Because GLP-1 slows gastric emptying, eating smaller meals more often can also help reduce bloating and nausea.

And let’s not forget hydration. Drinking plenty of water is key to supporting digestion and curbing hunger between meals.

Movement Really Counts

You don’t need to live at the gym, but some form of daily movement is a must. Walking, light resistance training, or even dancing in the living room all help build muscle. More muscle means better metabolism, which means longer-lasting results.

We encourage realistic, sustainable movement goals. If you haven’t been active in a while, we start slow. Small wins matter, and consistency matters more than perfection.

Stress Management Is Underrated

Stress messes with hormones. It can increase cortisol, which may lead to weight gain, especially around the belly. Even worse, stress often leads to emotional eating. That’s why we talk about stress management with every patient.

We suggest tools like journaling, breathing exercises, or setting boundaries around work and social obligations. Everyone’s stress triggers are different, but the need to address them is the same.

Our Role in Your Journey

We work side-by-side with you, not just during the prescription phase but throughout your entire weight loss journey. Every body responds differently. Some women lose weight quickly within the first few weeks, while others see a more gradual shift. That’s okay. Either way, we’re here for adjustments, check-ins, and real talk.

GLP-1 weight loss before and after photos only show part of the story. What those images don’t reveal is the emotional growth, improved sleep, and better lab results behind the scenes.

It’s Not About Perfection

We don’t expect perfection. Life gets in the way sometimes. What matters most is that you keep moving forward, even if it’s just one better choice at a time.

Weight loss, especially when hormones are involved, isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why we personalize your care plan and check in often. No cookie-cutter solutions here.

What to Expect Long-Term

As you progress with GLP-1 medication weight loss treatment and improve your habits, you may need dose changes or new strategies. We’ll guide you through that. Our goal isn’t just to help you lose weight. It’s to help you create a lifestyle that makes it easier to maintain.

Because at the end of the day, weight loss should support your health, not consume your life.

Final Thoughts

Here at our clinic in Spokane, we believe the combination of GLP-1 medications and smart lifestyle choices can be a game-changer. But it’s not a shortcut. It’s a commitment to yourself, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Let’s focus on progress, not perfection. And let’s do it together.