Frequently Asked Questions
Weight Loss Programs at Intelligent Health Center

What is the Program's Content and Goals?
The HMR Program for Weight Management™ at Intelligent Health Center is a state-of-the-art, award-winning, physician-directed weight loss treatment program that provides intensive lifestyle education, personalized attention and follow-up, and an emphasis on long-term weight maintenance.

Why should I choose HMR?
People lose more weight and keep more weight off with HMR than with any other ongoing weight management program (based on published weight-loss results). That's why HMR is the country's leading provider of medical weight-loss programs, offered by more hospitals and medical centers than any other medical weight-loss program. In addition, HMR has been trusted by physicians and dieters alike for more than 20 years.

What is the Program Philosophy?
Successful weight management is a matter of learning and practicing new skills, not willpower. The Program focuses on teaching new lifestyle skills for decreasing calories, increasing physical activity, and eating more vegetables and fruits to manage weight and overall health.

How is HMR different from other weight-loss programs?
The HMR Program does not involve fads, gimmicks, or theories about what "might" work. We focus on research-tested strategies and our programs are staffed by trained healthcare professionals. Unlike other companies whose biggest expense is often marketing, HMR invests most of its dollars in developing high-quality programs so that participants can do better. Nearly 80% of people in HMR programs have been referred by dieters who have been through our programs or by medical professionals who trust the quality of our work. Click here to see a graph comparing HMR to other weight loss programs.

How much weight can I expect to lose?
Generally, people on our Decision-Free Diet lose 2-4 pounds per week, or more. People on our Healthy Solutions diet lose about 2-3 pounds per week. Again, many people lose more. In either case, HMR has the best-published weight-loss results of any ongoing treatment program (based on HMR data published or presented at medical conferences): Clinic program participants using our Decision-Free Diet with medical supervision lose an average of 55-60 pounds. Some people lose over 100 pounds in this program. Clinic program participants using our Healthy Solutions diet lose an average of 35-40 pounds. Again, some dieters lose significantly more.

What are HMR's success rates?
HMR has the best weight-loss results of any ongoing weight-loss program (based on HMR data published or presented at medical conferences). All HMR diet options are effective. Generally speaking, people with 40 pounds or more to lose will achieve their weight-loss goal more quickly with the Decision-Free Diet. However, many people also lose 40, 50, or even 100 or more pounds on the Healthy Solutions diet. HMR clinics offer free, in-depth program orientations to help you make an informed choice without any obligation.

Clinic program participants using our Decision-Free Diet™ with medical supervision lose an average of 50–60 pounds. Some people lose over 100 pounds in this program (based on HMR's published results).

Clinic program participants using our Healthy Solutions® diet lose an average of 35–40 pounds. Some dieters lose significantly more.

HMR at Home® program participants using the Healthy Solutions diet lose an average of 23.4 pounds in the first 12 weeks. Some dieters lose significantly more.

What are the qualifications of the Program Staff?
All HMR Staff are required to participate in intensive HMR-specific training. This includes a comprehensive initial training program plus continuing education delivered by our national senior training team. No other program can boast a more qualified staff.
Scott Isaacs, M.D. (Medical Director)
Staff Directory

What is the length of the program?
The initial core program is 13 weeks. After the initial core program, you may move into an "ongoing" weight loss program or move into the maintenance program.

What is the average weight loss in the program?
Published Results Show: 62 lbs average weight loss for patients after 21 weeks on the HMR very low calorie diet program. Data collected from three groups of patients treated at the HMR program, University of Kentucky.

How does the HMR Program work?
The goal of the program is to help you incorporate simple lifestyle changes to lose weight and keep it off for a lifetime of better health. Our program diets are highly structured to make it easier for you to lose weight. The diets use HMR Shakes, Entrees and BeneFit® Bars, which are used in place of meals. Research shows that structured diets using meal replacements are the most successful for weight loss and long-term weight maintenance. Trained HMR professionals provide practical support through weekly group sessions and individual phone contact.

The program offers structure, education, and coaching to get you to your weight-loss goals. More people succeed in the HMR Program because we focus on the key skills that are most predictive of your succes--using HMR weight-loss foods with fruits and vegetables to reduce calories and participating in physical activity to burn calories. Clinic program participants make two commitments: to attend their weight-loss group weekly and to keep simple records to track their progress. Trained healthcare professionals work with you to provide training, perspective, and support, helping you make practical, realistic changes that won't stop when you go off the diet.

What are the health benefits of losing weight with HMR?
Losing weight with HMR can result in dramatic health improvements. That's because excess weight and obesity are risk factors for a number of chronic health conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, joint problems, sleep apnea, and more. Participants in the HMR Program often find that they are able to reduce or eliminate the medications they are taking for many of these conditions. Furthermore, the lifestyle changes the HMR Program helps you make--increasing physical activity and consuming more fruits and vegetables while decreasing fat in your diet--also contribute to dramatic health improvements. You'll look great and feel better!

How was the HMR Program developed?
The HMR Program was developed by physicians, psychologists, dietitians, and nurses. HMR is the only program that conducts continuous ongoing research based on the results of all of its participants. Our goal is to continually improve the success of our program based on the experience of the people who have been through it.

What lifestyle skills does the HMR Program teach?
The HMR Program focuses on three skills that are critical for weight-loss success: using packaged HMR Entrees and Shakes to reduce calories, eating fruits and vegetables, and engaging in physical activity to burn calories. These same skills are at the heart of HMR's weight-maintenance program and are critical for long-term weight management and general health management. In addition, they can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, and other chronic diseases.

Do you have any options for those who do not live close to Intelligent Health Center?
The HMR At-Home® program uses the same effective approach used in HMR's clinics nationwide. Participants follow a structured diet, keep records and share them in on a weekly "accountability" call with their weight loss coach. Then, once a week, dieters participate in a 45-minute facilitated group phone call designed to provide dieting support for the upcoming week.

Another option is to strategically substitute low calorie meal replacements for a few higher calorie meals. Combine that with a little bit of physical activity and you've got a recipe for weight loss. All of our delicious HMR weight loss foods are available for individual purchase. Instead of a high-calorie lunch or breakfast, consider a low-calorie shake. Nutritious and filling, HMR shakes can save you hundreds of calories every day; thousands every week! Click here for more information on using HMR meal replacements.

What diet options are available?
We offer two basic diet options in the clinic: Our Decision-Free Diet™ is the most structured diet and produces the greatest amount of weight loss. People on the Decision-Free Diet eat only HMR meal replacements—shakes, entrees and nutrition bars. Diet options include using either 5 HMR Shakes per day, or 3 HMR Shakes + 2 HMR Entrees. This diet includes medical supervision. The Healthy Solutions diet follows a “3+2+5” structure: 3 HMR Shakes + 2 HMR Entrees + 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Medical supervision is generally not required because the calories are higher. (Patients taking diabetes medication do require medical supervision.) Both diets are nutritionally complete and provide plenty of delicious food so you can feel full while you lose weight. In fact, you can eat as many HMR foods as you need to feel satisfied and still lose weight. These are NOT deprivation diets!

Medically-Supervised Diet
The medically supervised diet is specially designed for those who wish to lose 30 pounds or more. This option promotes significant weight loss under medical supervision, using only nutritionally complete HMR weight loss shakes and entrees instead of grocery store food. This is the easiest diet to follow, as it requires no decisions whatsoever about what to eat.

Healthy Solutions™
Healthy Solutions promotes slower, more moderate weight loss without medical supervision. This option uses nutritionally complete HMR weight loss shakes and entrees along with vegetables and fruits.

HMR at Home®
The HMR at Home Program allows people who don't live near an HMR clinic or who want to lose weight on their own to benefit from HMR's state-of-the-art weight-loss approach. You diet entirely on your own using comprehensive HMR Program materials and HMR weight-loss foods delivered to your door.

Custom Designed Diet
This diet combines real food with or without HMR meal replacements in a program custom designed for your needs.

All options provide 100% of adult nutritional requirements along with vitamins and minerals.

What is the calorie level?
Medically supervised HMR Decision-Free Diets include approximately 500-800 calories per day or more. The HMR Healthy Solutions diet includes approximately 1,200-1,600 calories per day or more.

How do I decide which HMR Program option is best for me?
Each of HMR's program options results in better outcomes than any comparable program. If you are looking to lose a lot of weight, the clinic program provides the highest level of structure and support. However, if you travel a lot or want the flexibility of HMR at Home, you can also achieve significant results. All HMR diet options are effective. Generally speaking, people with 40 pounds or more to lose will achieve their weight-loss goal more quickly with the Decision-Free Diet. However, many people also lose 40, 50, or even 100 or more pounds on the Healthy Solutions diet. HMR clinics offer free, in-depth program orientations to help you make an informed choice without any obligation.

Do I need medical supervision?
All HMR Program participants receive a professional screening upon joining. Depending on the diet you choose, your body mass index, and your medical history, the medical staff will determine whether you require medical supervision. Most participants on the Healthy Solutions diet do not require medical supervision. For the most part, if you are on an HMR diet of 1,200 or more calories per day, you do not require medical supervision. Occasionally, people who are on a higher-calorie HMR diet will still require ongoing medical supervision. Dieters on low- and very low-calorie HMR diets (500-800 calories per day) and those with certain medical conditions should receive medical supervision. Most HMR clinic programs provide medical supervision for those who need it. To be sure, always consult your physician before losing weight or beginning an exercise program.

Do I have to attend an orientation before starting the program?
Yes. The orientation is a free detailed explanation of the program as a whole. It will give you specific information about the diet options, meal replacements, class times, medical supervision, and the cost of the program. To sign up for an orientation, please call 404-531-3933.


What are the unique features of the program?
Screening: Participants may receive a complete medical screening before enrolling in the program. Medical supervision is provided as necessary. Patients under medical supervision receive periodic blood analysis and EKGs.
Weekly classes and personalized "individual coaching": Specific "how to's" to weight loss are taught, including easy ways to lower fat and calories in the diet without feeling hungry and simple strategies to build physical activity into the daily routine.
HMR Risk Factor Profile (a health risk appraisal): Given to participants before and after weight loss and lifestyle risk factors as a result of weight loss, reinforcing new, healthier habits.

Do you have a maintenance program?
HMR is a pioneer in long-term weight maintenance. Our maintenance participants are among the most successful anywhere. Why? Because they begin learning long-term weight control skills on their first day in our program. In fact, we have an unusually high percentage of weight-loss participants who continue in our weight-maintenance program because they find it is extremely useful in surmounting day-to-day weight challenges. After the weight loss phase, participants attend weekly classes where they continue to receive support while learning additional simple strategies for successful long-term weight management. A personal coach works closely with each individual to practice and over-practice healthier weight management skills until they become second nature. Click here for more information on the maintenance program.

Does HMR have an adolescent program?
Yes. Adolescents age 13 and over are able to participate in our adult clinic programs. Because teenagers are still physically maturing, it is important to take a careful approach to any adolescent weight-loss effort. HMR's medically based programs help adolescents make smart weight-loss plans. In addition, HMR Shakes, Entrees and BeneFit Bars help adolescents improve their nutrition and avoid the high-calorie foods that have made excess weight such an issue for teens.

Is there published data about the program?
HMR-sponsored research and weight loss data have been published in New England Journal of Medicine, International Journal of Obesity, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, American Journal of Gastroenterology, Journal of the American Dietetic Association, Diabetes Care, Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Annals of Internal Medicine, International Journal of Eating Disorders, Metabolism and Preventative Medicine.

How does the HMR Program compare to other diets, like Atkins, Weight Watchers, Zone, etc?
The HMR Program is in a class by itself when it comes to helping people lose weight and keep it off. Click here to see a graph of the average weight loss in the HMR program in comparison to other diets.

What is the cost of the program?
The cost varies according to length of weight loss phase and level of medical supervision. Program fees can be as little as $20 dollars per week.

Does health insurance cover this program?
It depends on you're insurance company/plan. Some plans include weight loss as a benefit. Here at the Intelligent Health Center , we do not file for insurance for your HMR medical appointments and labs. If weight loss is a benefit on your plan, you are responsible for filing for reimbursement. Some participants are eligible for insurance coverage. You should check with the customer service representative of your insurance company.
Click here for more information on how to get your insurance company to pay for the program.

Can I buy HMR meal replacements without participating in the program?
Yes, meal replacements are available on line and at our office. HMR meal replacements should not be used as your sole source of nutrition without medical supervision. Pregnant or lactating women should not use HMR meal replacements. Click here to purchase HMR Meal replacements.

How do the HMR at Home diet kits work?
The HMR at Home Program includes a choice of two diet kits: Healthy Solutions Quick Start Diet Kit or the HMR Healthy Shakes Diet Kit.

Healthy Solutions is our premier diet kit for maximum weight loss. The diet follows a 3+2+5 structure: 3 HMR Shakes or Puddings + 2 HMR Entrees + 5 servings of fruits and vegetables. The Healthy Solutions Quick Start Diet Kit includes three weeks of HMR Entrees, Shakes, and Puddings plus complete program materials.

The HMR Healthy Shakes Diet Kit follows a 3+5+1 structure: 3 HMR Shakes or Puddings + 5 servings of fruits and vegetables + 1 healthy meal of your choice. The HMR Healthy Shakes Diet Kit includes two weeks of HMR Shakes and Puddings, plus complete program materials.

The step-by-step materials in each kit show you how to maximize your weight loss and increase your physical activity in simple, enjoyable ways. In addition to your basic diet structure, you can have as many HMR Shakes, Puddings, Entrees, and fruits and vegetables as you need to feel full and you will still lose weight. These are NOT deprivation diets! After your first weeks, you continue to order HMR weight-loss foods for as long as you stay on the diet or even afterwards to help maintain your ideal weight. Click here to purchase diet kits.

How much does the HMR at Home program cost?
The three-week HMR Healthy Solutions Diet Kit includes all your HMR weight-loss entrees, shakes, and puddings, plus a complete set of step-by-step program materials. The cost varies depending on the weight-loss foods chosen, but comes to just around $13.00 a day. You just add fruits and vegetables. The two-week HMR Healthy Shakes Diet Kit includes all your HMR weight-loss shakes and puddings, plus a complete set of step-by-step program materials. The cost varies depending on the weight-loss foods chosen, but comes to just around $7.00 a day. You add fruits and vegetables and one healthy meal of your choice.

Because HMR weight-loss foods replace the cost of other grocery foods, fast foods, and dining out, many HMR participants actually report saving money.

Which HMR weight-loss shake is right for me?
All HMR Shakes are low-calorie, filling, and packed with nutrition. They are available in chocolate and vanilla, but can be combined with low-calorie add-ins to provide an unending variety of flavors. They mix up quickly for delicious thick shakes, fruit smoothies, mousses, puddings, and more! You'll never be bored!

For most HMR newcomers, we recommend our HMR 120 Shake mix, which is available in an economical canister. Vitamins are included in the mix, so you don't need to take an extra vitamin tablet. (120 calories per serving.) Our HMR 70 Plus Shake/Pudding mix is lactose-free and versatile, letting you create shakes or puddings from the same mix. It comes packaged in convenient, premeasured individual packets and includes HMR vitamin tablets. (110 calories per serving.) HMR 500 is the original HMR Shake used in our medical weight-loss clinics. It comes packed in convenient, premeasured individual packets and includes HMR vitamin tablets. (100 calories per serving.) HMR 800 is a slightly richer shake with slightly higher protein. It, too, is packed in individual packets and includes HMR vitamin tablets. (160-170 calories per serving.)

How many HMR Shakes per day should I have?
Any number of HMR Shakes that you drink in place of other foods will help you cut calories. Generally, three or more shakes per day will be effective to help you lose weight. Research shows that the more you use, the more you will lose. However, you should not use HMR Shakes as your sole source of nutrition without medical supervision. Always consult your physician before beginning any diet.

How do I use HMR Entrees?
HMR Entrees are easy, delicious, and heat up in about a minute! We recommend that you combine your HMR Entrees with 2 or more cups of vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned) for a quick, filling meal. Just one HMR Entree with vegetables instead of a typical lunch or dinner can save you a thousand calories or more and still have you feeling full.

How much fluid should I drink per day on an HMR diet?
Staying well hydrated, especially when you are on a diet, is important. If you do not drink enough fluids, you may experience side effects such as dizziness or headaches. When dieting, you should drink an 8-ounce glass of water or noncaloric beverage eight times per day (for a daily total of 64 fluid ounces or more).

Can people with diabetes use HMR foods?
Yes. HMR foods are frequently recommended by doctors for their patients with diabetes because of the foods' nutritional formulation and low calories. However, if you are on medication for diabetes, it is important to check with your physician before starting any diet program.

Do your products contain gluten?
Some of the HMR products entrees as well as the Chicken Soup and BeneFit bars contain gluten. HMR Shakes do not contain gluten. Click here for more information on gluten in HMR products.

Which of the meal replacements are kosher?
HMR Shakes and BeneFit Bars are kosher and are manufactured under the supervision of the Orthodox Union. HMR Entrees and HMR 500 Chicken Soup are not kosher. HMR products are not kosher for Passover.

Can I use HMR foods if I'm breast-feeding?
It's always best to consult with your obstetrician and/or pediatrician regarding any diet questions you may have while breast-feeding. HMR Entrees should present no nutritional concerns and can be enjoyed at any time. HMR Shakes contain artificial sweeteners (acesulfame potassium, aspartame, or saccharin), which some health professionals recommend limiting during breast feeding. HMR BeneFit Bars are vitamin-fortified and should be evaluated if prenatal vitamins are still being used. All HMR meal replacements list common allergens on the packaging.

Does the HMR program provide diet pills or appetite suppressants?
Most patients do not require appetite suppressants on the HMR program. Some patients may take an appetite suppressant under the guidance of their physician. The HMR program does not provide appetite suppressants.

What is HMR?
The HMR Program for Weight Management at Intelligent Health Center is offered through Health Management Resources (HMR), the nation's leading provider of medically supervised weight management programs. Since 1983, HMR Programs have helped more than 800,000 dieters lose weight while learning healthier lifestyle skills.
Click here for more information on HMR.

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