Why Sober October? How Alcohol Impacts Your Hormones

Discover how alcohol affects your hormones and why Sober October is the perfect time to reset. Learn how Body Bar MD can help you achieve hormonal balance with personalized wellness plans and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) to improve your energy, mood, and overall health

How Body Bar MD’s Unique, Personalized Approach to Health and Wellness Sets Us Apart

How Body Bar MD’s Unique, Personalized Approach to Health and Wellness Sets Us Apart

In today’s fast-paced world, achieving optimal health and wellness can seem overwhelming. Between fad diets, conflicting medical advice, and an overload of health information, it’s easy to feel lost. At Body Bar MD, we understand that no two patients are alike. That’s why we take a unique, individualized approach to health and wellness, ensuring that each patient receives care specifically tailored to their needs. From weight loss to hormone therapy, and everything in between, we focus on providing personalized solutions that empower our patients to live healthier, happier lives.

Why Personalized Care Matters

The key to lasting health and wellness lies in customization. Every person has a unique genetic makeup, lifestyle, and set of health challenges. What works for one individual might not work for another. At Body Bar MD, we believe that a “one-size-fits-all” approach to healthcare simply doesn’t work.

Instead, our team takes the time to understand your individual needs, medical history, and personal goals. Whether you’re struggling with weight loss, hormonal imbalances, or sexual health issues, we work closely with you to create a personalized plan that addresses your unique challenges. This patient-centric approach helps us ensure long-term success and lasting results.

Body Bar MD’s Comprehensive Services

At Body Bar MD, we offer a wide range of services designed to meet the needs of each individual. Some of our most popular services include:

  • Medical Weight Loss: Our medical weight loss programs are not just about shedding pounds; they’re about achieving sustainable results. By focusing on each patient’s metabolic health, lifestyle, and goals, we create personalized weight loss plans that work. Our programs incorporate nutritional counseling, hormone therapy, and medical support to help you achieve lasting success.
  • Hormone Therapy: Hormonal imbalances can lead to a range of health issues, from fatigue and weight gain to mood swings and reduced sexual health. We offer bioidentical hormone therapy for both men and women to help restore balance and improve overall well-being.
  • Sexual Health Services: Sexual health is an important aspect of overall health and well-being. At Body Bar MD, we offer personalized solutions for sexual health concerns, including treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED), low libido, and other conditions. Our goal is to help you feel confident and healthy in every aspect of your life.
  • Body Sculpting & Laser Liposuction: When diet and exercise aren’t enough, minimally invasive laser liposuction and body sculpting can help you achieve the body shape you desire. We offer a range of cutting-edge, non-surgical options designed to enhance your natural curves and help you feel your best.

Our Individualized Approach: The Body Bar MD Difference

What makes Body Bar MD stand out from other wellness clinics is our commitment to individualized care. From the moment you walk through our doors, you are treated as a whole person—not just a list of symptoms. Our approach includes:

  1. Thorough Assessments: We start with a comprehensive assessment of your health. This includes detailed lab work, hormone testing, and a discussion of your lifestyle, medical history, and goals. Our team will take the time to get to know you, so we can understand your specific challenges and needs.
  2. Customized Health Plans: Based on your initial assessment, we develop a customized health plan designed just for you. This plan may include a combination of medical weight loss, hormone therapy, dietary changes, exercise recommendations, and other treatments. Our goal is to create a plan that fits seamlessly into your life, making it easy for you to achieve your health and wellness goals.
  3. Ongoing Support: We understand that your health journey doesn’t end after your first visit. That’s why we provide ongoing support and adjustments to your treatment plan as needed. Whether you need follow-up appointments, lifestyle coaching, or additional therapies, our team is here to help you every step of the way.

Why Choose Body Bar MD?

Personalized Care: At Body Bar MD, you’re never just another patient. We take the time to understand your unique needs and craft a plan that’s perfect for you.

Comprehensive Services: From weight loss and hormone therapy to sexual health and body sculpting, we offer a full suite of services to address all aspects of your health.

Experienced Team: Dr. Christy and the team at Body Bar MD have years of experience in providing personalized health solutions. We stay up to date with the latest treatments and technologies to ensure you receive the best care possible.

Long-Lasting Results: Our customized approach leads to better, more sustainable results. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, balance hormones, or improve your overall well-being, we focus on long-term success rather than quick fixes.

Get Started with Body Bar MD Today

If you’re ready to take the next step in your health and wellness journey, we’re here to help. At Body Bar MD, we make each patient a personal mission. We’re committed to helping you achieve your health goals with a plan that works for you, not against you.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Christy and our dedicated team today, and discover how personalized health care can transform your life. Whether you’re looking for weight loss solutions, hormone therapy, or just a better way to feel your best, Body Bar MD has the expertise and compassion you need to succeed.

Ready to take the next step toward a healthier you? At Body Bar MD, we are committed to helping you achieve your personal health and wellness goals with a customized, patient-centered approach. Whether you’re looking for weight loss solutions, hormone therapy, or a full wellness plan tailored just for you, our experienced team, led by Dr. Christy, is here to support you every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how Body Bar MD can help you live your best, healthiest life.


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November is American Diabetes Month

Did you know that 1 in 11 Americans today has diabetes? Despite its prevalence, diabetes is an invisible disease. It affects men and women, people young and old, and people of all races, shapes and sizes. Often there are no outward signs from the 29 million Americans who fight this chronic illness every day. That’s why there is a critical need to foster awareness and education while breaking down stereotypes, myths and misunderstandings about this growing public health crisis that affects so many of us.

Diabetes Statistics

This is exactly why the American Diabetes Association marks each November as American Diabetes Month: to bring extra attention to the disease and the tens of millions of people affected by it.

This November, the organization will showcase real-life stories of friends, families and neighbors managing the day-to-day triumphs and challenges of diabetes. The 2016 campaign, sponsored by Colgate Total® (National Oral Care Strategic Partner) and Medtronic Diabetes®, invites us to use #ThisIsDiabetes to share our personal stories and to start a dialogue about what it really means to live with diabetes.

Diabetes is more than the medications and devices used to manage it. For many, diabetes dictates how they organize their day, what they eat at every meal, how they choose to be physically active and how they spend their money. People with diabetes can have health care costs that are 2.3 times higher than someone without diabetes, as type 1 and type 2 require very specific forms of treatment.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and there is no known way to prevent it. Approximately 5 percent of people with diabetes have type 1, which means their body does not produce any insulin. Insulin is critical in order for the body to transport glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into cells for energy. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day to live.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for 90 to 95 percent of cases in the United States, and is caused when the body does not produce or use insulin properly. Risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes include being overweight, having a family history of diabetes and having diabetes while pregnant (gestational diabetes). Some people with type 2 diabetes can control their blood glucose (sugar) with healthy eating and being active; other may require oral medications or insulin, especially as the disease progresses. Type 2 diabetes is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, as well as older adults.

Some women develop gestational diabetes, high blood glucose (sugar) levels during pregnancy, which requires treatment to protect the health of the mother and the baby. Gestational diabetes affects approximately 9.2 percent of pregnant women.

How to get involved

There’s a way for everybody to participate during American Diabetes Month in November. Share your story, or encourage a friend or family member to share theirs using #ThisIsDiabetes. Be sure to also follow the American Diabetes Association on FacebookInstagram, and Twitter.

You can also update your Facebook profile picture to help raise awareness, sign up to become an advocate and donate to help the American Diabetes Association continue their critical work. To learn more and view #ThisIsDiabetes stories from around the country, check out diabetes.org/adm.

Is Laser Liposuction a Good Option for Post-Pregnancy Body Transformation?

Congratulations on your new baby! Being a mother is a beautiful journey, but pregnancy can leave some unwelcome changes in your body. If your body is taking longer to “bounce back” than you would like, or if you have plateaued in a place that leaves you wanting more change, Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson at Body Bar MD in Carmel and Terre Haute, IN, understands your concerns. Dr. Watson recommends considering laser liposuction for your post-pregnancy body transformation as a fantastic, minimally-invasive option for addressing unwanted postnatal changes.

Why choose laser liposuction?

Laser liposuction is a popular treatment plan due to its minimally invasive nature and impressive results. Unlike traditional liposuction, laser liposuction is minimally invasive and employs laser technology to melt away stubborn fat deposits left behind by pregnancy. This procedure can enable you to return to your pre-baby body, targeting areas like the abdomen, thighs, and love handles.

Here’s why it might be the right choice for you:

  • Quick recovery: The laser liposuction recovery period is typically shorter, allowing you to get back to your baby faster.
  • Less invasive: Laser liposuction, sometimes referred to as micro liposuction, is less invasive than traditional liposuction, which can mean less discomfort and risk.
  • Precise sculpting: The laser technology allows for more precise sculpting of the body, leading to more natural-looking results.

What is the procedure like?

Laser liposuction is a simple outpatient procedure performed using local anesthesia. After making a tiny incision, Dr. Christy inserts a small laser fiber into the fat layer beneath your skin. This laser breaks down and liquefies the fat cells, which are gently suctioned out. The laser also stimulates collagen production, promoting skin tightening in the treated area.

Are there any risks or side effects?

As with any procedure, laser liposuction has potential risks and side effects. These can include minor bruising, swelling, and discomfort, but most patients recover quickly with minimal downtime. Dr. Kristy will discuss potential risks thoroughly during your consultation and work closely with you to ensure a safe and successful recovery.

How can fat transfer enhance your results?

In addition to laser liposuction, fat transfer can further refine your post-pregnancy body transformation. This procedure involves removing fat from one area of the body and injecting it into another area to add volume and enhance contours. It’s a natural and effective way to enhance areas like the breasts or buttocks while reducing unwanted fat deposits elsewhere.

Are you ready to transform your body after pregnancy?

Laser liposuction might be the perfect solution if you’re eager to reclaim your pre-baby body. At Body Bar MD in Carmel and Terre Haute, IN, Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson is ready to guide you on your body transformation journey. Call or visit us today to book your consultation and discover how a mommy makeover with laser liposuction can help you regain your confidence and celebrate your body.

Can a Medical Weight Loss Plan Treat Obesity?

Are you struggling with obesity and looking for a solution to achieve a healthier weight? A medical weight loss plan may be the answer you’ve been searching for. At Body Bar MD, with locations in Carmel and Terre Haute, IN, Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson offers comprehensive medical weight loss programs designed to address the underlying causes of obesity and help patients achieve long-term weight management success.

What is a medical weight loss plan?

medical weight loss plan is a customized program supervised by a medical professional, such as Dr. Christy. Medically supervised weight loss programs typically take a holistic approach to weight loss, focusing not only on calorie reduction but also on identifying and addressing the factors contributing to weight gain. The programs often include a combination of dietary modifications, exercise recommendations, behavioral therapy, and, if necessary, medication or supplements.

Is medical weight loss right for an obese person?

Yes, in many cases, a medical weight loss plan can be highly effective in treating obesity. Unlike fad diets or quick fixes, medical weight loss programs are tailored to each individual’s specific needs and health conditions and are specifically designed to help patients establish behaviors that lead to long-term weight maintenance. They can also address the underlying causes of obesity, such as hormonal imbalances, metabolic issues, or emotional eating, to promote sustainable weight loss and overall well-being.

What are the benefits of a medical weight loss program vs. at-home dieting?

Compared with at-home weight loss programs, medically supervised weight loss offers a number of important benefits, including:

  • Customized approach
  • Supervision by a medical professional
  • Identification of underlying causes
  • Sustainable weight loss
  • Improved overall health and well-being

What does a medical weight loss program include?

Each medical weight loss program at Body Bar MD is personalized to help meet the unique needs of the patient. The program begins with a comprehensive assessment, including a thorough medical history review, physical examination, measurements with the revolutionary Inbody 720 scanner, and laboratory tests if necessary. Dr. Christy and our team will then develop a customized plan that may include:

  • Personalized nutrition guidance and meal planning
  • Exercise recommendations tailored to individual fitness levels and abilities
  • Behavioral therapy
  • Prescription medications, if needed
  • Regular monitoring and follow-up visits to track progress and make necessary adjustments

How long does a medical weight loss program take?

The duration of a medical weight loss program varies depending on individual goals, starting weight, overall health, and other patient factors. It is important to remember that weight loss is a journey and not an overnight process. Dr. Christy will work closely with each patient to develop a realistic timeline and set achievable goals. The program’s length may range from a few months to a year or more, depending on the patient’s needs and progress.

Regain your health, happiness, and quality of life with a medical weight loss program in Indiana

If you’re ready to take control of your weight and improve your overall health, Body Bar MD in Carmel and Terre Haute, IN, is here to support you. Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson and our experienced team offer compassionate and personalized medical weight loss programs that can address the unique challenges of obesity. Take the first step toward transforming your body — inside and out — by calling to schedule your consultation for medical weight loss today.

Can Bioidentical Hormones be Taken at Any Age?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a popular treatment option for men and women struggling with hormone imbalance or deficiency, especially hormonal changes associated with menopause (in women) and andropause (in men). One of the first questions many patients ask when considering HRT is whether they are at the right age to start treatment. While there is no set minimum or maximum age limit for using hormone replacement therapy, there are some individual patient factors that will need to be taken into consideration before beginning a course of HRT. At Body Bar MD, Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson offers BioTE® bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) for patients in Carmel and Terre Haute, IN. Prior to administering BHRT, Dr. Christy will conduct a thorough consultation and evaluation to determine whether the patient’s age, underlying health conditions, or other factors may interfere with the safety or efficacy of treatment.

Who needs hormone replacement therapy?

BHRT is widely used to help rebalance hormone levels and provide relief from the uncomfortable and frustrating symptoms of hormone deficiency, menopause, or andropause. Some of the signs and symptoms that may mean you could benefit from BioTE BHRT include:

In women:

  • Hot flashes
  • Night sweats
  • Mood swings
  • Depression or anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Weight gain
  • Bone loss (osteoporosis)
  • Thinning hair
  • Facial hair growth
  • Brain fog
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Low libido

In men:

  • Mood changes
  • Irritability
  • Depression
  • Weight gain or loss
  • Loss of muscle mass
  • Hair loss
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Brain fog
  • Sexual dysfunction/erectile dysfunction
  • Low libido

Am I too young for HRT?

Most patients are eligible to begin HRT once they develop early symptoms of menopause or andropause. In women, the earliest symptoms of menopause can actually begin in their 30s or 40s, at which time it may be appropriate to consider hormone therapy. Regardless of age, all patients will need to undergo a consultation, evaluation, and review of health and medical history, which will include reviewing recent bloodwork and/or drawing new labs to establish baseline hormone levels. Based on this information, Dr. Christy will make the final determination about whether BHRT may be an appropriate course of action.

Can I start hormones at 60?

For women specifically, BHRT is usually taken for about 2 – 5 years after reaching menopause, which typically occurs around age 50. Still, some patients may continue hormone treatments beyond that time if needed to control symptoms. However, there are certain contraindications for continuing HRT (or BHRT) long-term and/or beyond age 60 – 65, which can vary from patient to patient based on health and family history and other factors. During your initial consultation for BHRT in Terre Haute, IN, Dr. Christy will discuss the risks of long-term and advanced-age HRT in greater detail and closely assess your personal, family, and health history details to better understand if, when, and for how long you may safely and effectively be able to utilize BHRT medications.

Control your andropause or menopause symptoms with BioTE BHRT in Carmel, IN

Has age left you looking or feeling like someone you scarcely recognize? Take charge of your aging and regain a more youthful sense of yourself with BioTE BHRT. To learn more about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy and whether you may be eligible for BHRT, call either of our convenient Body Bar MD locations in Terre Haute and Carmel, IN to schedule your private consultation with Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson today.

Can KYBELLA® Give Me a Sculpted Jawline?

Even with a healthy diet, consistent exercise, and normal weight overall, you may still be struggling with stubborn fat under the chin, which can often make people look heavier or older than they actually are. While surgical liposuction is certainly an option for removing double chin fat, many people are interested in a more convenient, more affordable solution that does not require the inconveniences of plastic surgery — like incisions, scarring, anesthesia, and time away from work. For these patients, KYBELLA injections are a popular and easy way to reduce stubborn neck fat and sculpt a slimmer, smoother, more youthful-looking profile. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of KYBELLA injections from medical aesthetics and wellness expert Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson (aka Dr. Christy) of Body Bar MD in Terre Haute and Carmel, IN.

What is KYBELLA?

KYBELLA is a cosmetic injectable product that is FDA approved for reducing stubborn fat cells in the submental area, meaning beneath the chin or on the upper neck. KYBELLA is commonly used to help slim down a double chin and give the patient a slimmer, smoother jawline and profile overall.

What to expect during KYBELLA injections

To ensure your comfort during treatment, Dr. Christy may apply a topical anesthetic prior to starting your injections. Once you are adequately numb, Dr. Christy will perform a series of injections in your upper neck, strategically targeting stubborn fat cells under the chin. After treatment, some swelling and tenderness are normal, but these symptoms should resolve after a few days or weeks, after which time you’ll start to see your results taking shape.

How many KYBELLA treatments will I need?

While most patients enjoy a noticeable improvement in their double chin and jawline after a single treatment with KYBELLA injections, patients with a greater amount of fat or fat that is less responsive to treatment may require a series of 2 – 4 appointments to achieve their desired outcome.

Will KYBELLA help a turkey neck?

KYBELLA is designed specifically to treat stubborn fat around the jawline, chin, and neck area to create a smoother and more sculpted look. Patients whose primary complaint is loose neck skin — sometimes called a “turkey neck” — should understand that KYBELLA injections will not address skin laxity. If you are concerned about hanging neck skin, talk to Dr. Christy about the possibility of nonsurgical skin tightening.

Can I get KYBELLA at the same time as another injectable?

In most cases, the answer is yes. Based on your specific concerns, goals, treatment history, and other factors, it may be possible to receive your KYBELLA injections at the same time you are getting another type of injectable, like wrinkle relaxers or dermal fillers. Some of our most popular injectable products for facial rejuvenation include:

  • BOTOX®
  • Dysport®
  • JUVÉDERM®
  • Restylane®

If you are interested in combining your KYBELLA treatment with injectable wrinkle relaxers and/or dermal fillers for an even more complete and stunning transformation, don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Christy which products may be most appropriate for you.

Get the stronger, sexier silhouette you want with KYBELLA double chin injections in Terre Haute, IN

If you are at a healthy weight but still can’t seem to shake your double chin, KYBELLA injections can help. Take the first step toward a lighter, fresher, slimmed-down new look by scheduling your consultation for KYBELLA injections in Terre Haute or Carmel, IN with Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson at Body Bar MD today.

Can Laser Lipo and Fat Transfer Enhance Hollow-Looking Cheeks?

As we age, our skin and facial features change. Specifically, the loss of facial volume is common, particularly in the cheeks. This can result in a hollow, sunken appearance that can make us look older than we actually are.

At Body Bar MD, with offices in Carmel and Terre Haute, IN, Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson offers a popular treatment to address this concern — laser liposuction and fat transfer.

Keep reading to discover how laser lipo and fat transfer can enhance hollow-looking cheeks and restore a youthful look to your face.

How do laser lipo and fat transfer work to enhance hollow cheeks?

Laser lipo and fat transfer is an advanced technique that uses laser technology to heat and melt away fat cells, resulting in a slimmer, more sculpted appearance. The beauty of laser lipo lies in its precision. The laser energy targets the fat cells, causing them to rupture and be removed naturally by the body. This procedure is ideal for targeting stubborn areas of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. The laser is able to target specific areas of fat without damaging surrounding tissue, making it a safe and effective option.

But laser lipo isn’t just about removing fat — it can also be used in conjunction with fat transfer to plump up areas that are lacking in volume. During a fat transfer to the cheeks, Dr. Christy takes fat from one area of the body, purifies it, and injects it into the cheeks to add volume and fullness.

The natural results of a fat transfer to the cheeks are typically long-lasting, as the injected fat becomes a long-term part of the cheek tissue. However, not all of the fat that is injected will survive. As a result, some patients may require additional injections to achieve the desired outcome.

The benefits of fat transfer for cheek enhancement

Laser lipo and fat transfer offer many benefits if you’re looking for a way to achieve a more youthful appearance and enhance your cheeks.

For starters, it’s a minimally invasive procedure that allows clients to avoid the use of synthetic fillers. For some, this presents a safer and more natural option that makes cosmetic enhancement less intimidating. Because the procedure is minimally invasive, recovery time is minimal, and there is little to no scarring.

Perhaps one of the best things about fat transfer is the fact that it offers long-lasting and natural results. Unlike traditional filler injections that require frequent touch-ups, fat transfer can last for years, offering a cost-effective solution that can help you maintain your results for an extended period of time.

The procedure can be used to enhance a variety of areas, including the breasts, buttocks, lips, and hands. So, whether you’re looking to add volume to your cleavage or improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, fat transfer can help you achieve the look you desire in multiple places.

Enhance your cheeks with laser lipo and fat transfer in Carmel or Terre Haute, IN

Laser lipo and fat transfer is typically a well-tolerated procedure, but patients do need to have an area with enough subcutaneous fat to provide a resource for fat transfer.

To find out if you’re a candidate and discuss your aesthetic goals with Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson, schedule an appointment at the Carmel or Terre Haute, IN location of Body Bar MD today.

How Can I Keep the Weight Off After Medical Weight Loss Treatment?

We understand the struggle to lose weight and keep it off. At Body Bar MD, we specialize in medical weight loss treatments that help you reach your desired weight and maintain your results long-term. Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson may recommend the Robard New Direction program, one-on-one counseling, behavior modification, and diet planning to ensure your success.

Want to learn how to keep the weight off long-term? Read our tips below or schedule a consultation in Carmel or Terre Haute, IN. Our weight loss clinic is proud to have worked with countless patients to improve their health and feel better overall.

Setting the foundation for medical weight loss

Obesity is a serious condition that requires medical intervention. Being overweight increases your risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, in addition to sleep apnea, knee and joint discomfort, and emotional distress. You may feel overwhelmed with the wide variety of diet and exercise plans available – this is where medical weight loss lends a helping hand.

Medical weight loss at Body Bar MD combines long-term lifestyle changes and medications (such as suppressant medications and nutritional supplements) to help you shed stubborn pounds. Dr. Christy may suggest an evidence-based food replacement program called Robard New Direction, which helps obese patients lose weight safely, quickly, and sustainably.

How to keep the weight off long-term

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to weight loss in Carmel and Terre Haute, IN, but there are ways to manage your success and keep the weight off. Here are some top tips provided by our weight loss clinic:

  • Stick to your new diet: Choose nutrient-rich foods like raw fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to keep you feeling full longer and reduce the risk of overeating.
  • Exercise regularly: Working out allows you to build muscle and keep your metabolism revved up. Plan to follow a consistent exercise routine during the week.
  • Stay accountable: Consider joining a support group, meeting with a counselor or nutritionist, or partnering with a friend for extra encouragement.
  • Track your progress: Many of our patients use a journal to monitor their eating and exercise habits as well as their weight. This keeps them motivated and on track with their goals.

Meet with Dr. Christy for continued success

Body Bar MD schedules regular follow-up appointments for all medical weight loss patients. During these visits, Dr. Christy provides positive reinforcement and modifies your current plan as needed. We know that keeping the weight off can be challenging, so we’re here to help you make the most of your efforts.

When to expect results from medical weight loss

Patients can be a part of our medical program for weeks or months, depending on their individual situation. Most people see results in as little as a few weeks, but don’t be discouraged if your journey takes a bit longer. Be patient with yourself – your body may need time to adjust to the changes you are making.

Discover the advantages of medical weight loss

There’s no time like the present to take control of your weight, and our weight loss clinic is here to help you reach your goals. Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson can explain the benefits of counseling, behavior modification, and diet planning before creating a personalized treatment plan. Call Body Bar MD in Carmel or Terre Haute, IN, and see how medical weight loss can change your life.

Will Bioidentical Hormones Cause Weight Gain?

An adult approaching middle age has likely seen hormonal imbalances resulting in mood, mind, and body changes. At Body Bar MD in Carmel and Terre Haute, IN, Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson offers bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) with BioTE® for adults over 40 who need their hormone levels rebalanced.

Keep reading to find out if you can expect side effects such as weight gain after starting BHRT.

How does bioidentical hormone replacement therapy work?

As both men and women age, hormones get depleted and lead to symptoms of imbalance such as:

  • Weight gain
  • Low libido
  • Fatigue
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Hair and bone loss

At Body Bar MD, Dr. Christy helps patients make informed decisions about if bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is right for them. In some cases, BHRT is accompanied by dietary changes and other supplements.

The first step is to assess your hormone levels to identify your precise levels of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and other hormones. This allows Dr. Christy to figure out precisely what you need to rebalance.

In BHRT, the hormones used are synthetic yet molecularly identical to your body’s natural hormones.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy using BioTE is a hormone pellet that is placed underneath the skin using a small incision. A local anesthetic is all that’s necessary to relieve discomfort associated with the procedure.

The pellet will release hormones slowly into your bloodstream and typically lasts 3 – 6 months.

Does BHRT cause weight gain?

Patients are often concerned about weight gain during bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Some patients may experience weight gain at the start of treatment. However, patients with imbalanced hormones are more likely to gain weight, and overall, weight gain is not considered a risk of BHRT.

If you do experience prolonged weight gain during BHRT, it’s important not to stop treatment. If you were already gaining weight due to a metabolism issue, hormone replacement would not be able to reverse that overnight. You shouldn’t be concerned if you still see the scale move in the “wrong” direction almost immediately after starting BHRT.

People with hormone imbalances may also suffer from fatigue and become more sedentary. BHRT can help you regain some of your energy, but you will need to get into new diet and exercise habits to make it happen.

In the rare cases that hormone replacement therapy fails to balance hormones, patients may experience weight gain associated with that imbalance. If weight gain is drastic or long-lasting, contact Dr. Christy to discuss your concerns. She will be able to run a hormone panel to see if everything is in balance and working as it should.

In some cases, women may experience water retention when the first dose of BHRT is inserted. This can lead to temporary weight gain that subsides quickly.

Get bioidentical hormone replacement therapy in Carmel and Terre Haute, IN

If you’re over 40 and concerned about symptoms of hormone imbalance, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy with BioTE can be an excellent option for treating your symptoms. While hormone imbalance may be a reality of aging, it doesn’t have to interfere with your life.

To learn more about if you’re a candidate for BHRT, make an appointment with Dr. Christy Kirkendol Watson at Body Bar MD in Carmel or Terre Haute, IN.