Weight Loss
Holistic assessment and treatment options for women struggling to lose weight
"Why is it harder to lose weight now?"
The struggle for women
over 40
This is a very common complaint from women over 40, so if you've been struggling, know that you are not alone. Very often women come to me after trying all their usual tricks, and feeling frustrated when nothing has worked.
Over about age 40, women can experience changes to body composition as a result of altered hormone levels. Many women notice more belly fat than they're used to, and it seems to be more stubborn. This is frustrating to say the least, but you don't have to accept it.
How I Help Women Lose Weight (For Good)
I offer a multi-faceted, holistic approach, meeting you where you're at with practical tools and evidence-based and practice-informed advice.
1. Identify the "Why"
Any conversation about body composition should start with a clear idea of your goals. Do you want to lose weight to fit into your clothes better, or to improve your blood test results?
This gives me an idea of how much weight would be be appropriate, and how best to measure your progress. (It's not all about the scale!)
2. Start with the foundations
Everyone knows the best ways to lose weight are with diet and exercise. But do you know which type of diet would be best for you? This can really vary, depending on your body composition, other medical conditions, and personal history.
Similarly, exercise strategies are most effective when they take into account your age, current level of physical activity, any past or current injuries, and long-term health goals.
Your provider should create a plan that is as unique as you are.
3. Test, don't guess
Multiple different medical conditions can cause weight gain, including poor thyroid function, insulin resistance, PCOS, and GI issues, to name just a few.
Rather than guess and start expensive or unwarranted (and ineffective) treatments, I prefer to use carefully chosen lab tests to inform the best course of treatment. These are often covered by insurance and may include blood testing, specialized urine tests, or saliva.
4. Supplement when necessary
After reviewing goals, medical history, and lab tests, I may prescribe targeted supplements.
They may be herbs to support stress management or blood sugar balance, or nutrients to fill in the gaps for nutrient deficiencies. These are always tailored to the individual, and I don't have a standard package or "one-size-fits-all" plan.
Supplements are offered through Fullscript, which is a trusted source, and I pass along steep discounts for my patients, with no obligation to purchase.
5. Medications may be considered
As a Naturopathic Doctor, I enjoy working with a large toolbox of treatment options.
Usually, my patients have good success with weight loss when we optimize their nutrition, fitness, stress management skills, and fill in the gaps with appropriate supplementation. But sometimes, we need a bigger hammer, and I'm comfortable utilizing medications in carefully prescribed doses that support my patients' goals.
Ultimately, this is the your decision, and I offer research-backed and clinically relevant education free from judgement or dogma.
6. Reassess and adjust as needed
I like to coach my patients through the process, and respond quickly to changing needs. If the plan we choose isn't working, I'm available to answer questions and troubleshoot.
Your physician should be your healthcare collaborator, offering expert guidance that takes your lifestyle and goals into account.
Real Stories From Our Community
"I have had the best experience working with Dr. Alisha. She cares a lot about my success to lose weight in a healthy way and to feel better in my body as I go through perimenopause and it's working! I feel heard and understood and she doesn't sugar coat things. She patiently explained the lab results, and made recommendations that were practical and personalized. I’m feeling stronger than ever and more in tune with my body for first time."
Sari K.
“I am convinced your recommendations are why I have the energy and performance level I do today. Which by the way feels pretty amazing.”
Holly S.
From our very first meeting, I was blown away by Dr. Alisha's depth of knowledge, passion and no-nonsense approach to helping women navigate the often murky waters of hormone health. There is so much conflicting information and stigma around perimenopause and menopause and each woman's journey is so personal. Having Dr. Alisha in my corner was a game changer for me. I feel so educated and empowered to navigate the road ahead with confidence, to advocate for my physical and mental health, and feel my best.
Anne H.