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  • Events
  • About Us
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  • Services
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    • Specialized Testing
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    • Collagen & Beauty Blog
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healthy  living

Staff picks: Our favorite products and services at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss & Anti-aging medicine

3/1/2021

 
Pacholec Center for Weight Loss & Anti-Aging Medicine has come a long way over the years! What started out as a small weight loss practice has grown over the years to now include anti-aging medicine, hormone therapy, holistic support for gastrointestinal diseases, IV vitamin therapy and aesthetic medicine in addition to our weight loss services. With so many different types of products and services now available, our staff and providers are happy to provide our clients with this list of our favorite things in 2021! Each team member was asked to pick their #1 favorite product and service and give a brief description for why each was their favorite. See below for their answers! All products and services are available in both the St Petersburg, FL and Lutz, FL locations for Pacholec Center for Weight Loss & Anti-Aging Medicine. 

Jesyka velez, cma:
​Vitamin D3, Skinmedica retinol complex & B12 shots

vitamin d3 and retinol complex skincare
Jeskya V., Favorite Products: "It was difficult to pick just one product! I love Vitamin D3 because it helps improve immune function, protects against cancer and prevents breakdown of bone tissue. It is also a small capsule that I can incorporate into my daily routine easily and it is inexpensive; under $25 for a 90-day supply! My favorite skin product is Retinol Complex 1.0, by SkinMedica. I have had issues with blemishes and pigmentation my whole life and since I started using Retinol Complex, many of my issues have disappeared and my skin is glowing and smooth. This is an easy to apply cream you incorporate into your bedtime skincare routine. Don't forget to moisturize and wear sunscreen with any Retinoid product!"  
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Jesyka V., Favorite Service: "My favorite service is the fat-burning injections and B12 shots we provide as part of our weight loss and anti-aging programs. These shots are full of B vitamins and amino acids which help burn fat, detoxify the liver, decrease inflammation and increase energy. They are given weekly and patients may notice effects right away or they may notice improvements over time. Everyone is different and has a unique response to the injections, so we normally recommend purchasing one of our affordable monthly packages to give it a try for 30-days and see how you respond!"

Jessica "Kelly" Smith, cma:
Opticleanse and skinaide collagen supplement

protein shake for weight loss and collagen skincare
Kelly S. Favorite Products: "I found it hard to choose just 1 product! My favorite anti-aging and weight loss product is OptiCleanse by Xymogen. This product is a functional food protein shake which you mix with milk, water or in a smoothie to use as a meal replacement if you are trying to lose weight or as a vitamin supplement if you do not like taking a million different capsules. It is packed full of protein, vitamins, minerals and amino acids to assist in liver detoxification, decrease inflammation and help your body more effectively burn fat. It also tastes great and comes in two flavors - chocolate and vanilla. Skinaide Collagen is an amazing supplement that you drink daily. It improves collagen production from the inside out, targeting the dermal layer of the skin specifically. After a 90-day course of treatment, you will notice a significant reduction in fine lines, wrinkles and even cellulite! It works best in combination with our aesthetic procedures, such as Plasma Pen Skin Tightening, Sculptra filler and MINT thread-lifts."
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Kelly S. Favorite Service: "My favorite service we offer is peptide therapy. The field of peptide therapy is amazing and there are many different peptides to help with weight loss, aesthetics, gut health, immune function and brain health! One of my favorite peptide therapies is Sermorelin Glycinate, which is a sub-cutaneous injection that assists with weight loss, memory, muscle mass and increases human growth hormone (HGH) production. I tried it for a month and lost 8 lbs without any additional diet or exercise!" 

Taimi Gonzalez, cma:
Skinmedica and IV vitamin therapy

botox and skincare
iv vitamin therapy for cellular health
Taimi G. Favorite Products: "I love SkinMedica products because these products truly work for me and keep my skin looking fresh and young! You are never too young or too old to start a good skincare routine. My favorite products are the Uplifting Eye Serum and the TNS Advanced Serum, which both hydrate the skin and target fine lines and wrinkles. My goal is to age gracefully and so far, I am loving it! I also use a small amount of Botox periodically which not only helps me maintain a younger look but improves my migraines significantly!"

Taimi G. Favorite Services: "I have been a big fan of IV therapy since we introduced it a few years ago. I love the Beautify Blend which hydrates the skin, boosts immunity and improves my energy levels. My hair and nails have never looked shinier or been stronger! This is a great service to use in combination with some of our other aesthetic procedures to help improve beauty from the inside out."

Joel Galvan, CMA:
IV vitamin Therapy & Botox

iv vitamin therapy for cellular nutrition
Joel G. Favorite Products: " I love getting Botox occasionally as it helps assist in the aging process and helps me boost my confidence when I notice my deep lines disappear. I am happy I am starting Botox at an early age as it helps to prevent my lines from getting any worse!"

Joel G. Favorite Services: "Two of my absolute favorite products are IV therapy and Botox. Since I began with IV therapy a few years ago, I haven't found any better treatments for keeping energized, boosting my immune system, and feeling refreshed. IV vitamin therapy can also assist with weight loss, and I have noticed many of our patients achieve their weight loss goals faster when they get an Energy Boost IV once or twice a month. You can do the IVs in combination with fat burning injections and appetite suppressants for optimal results!"

Lauren DeNeve, arnp: 
Botox & peptide therapy

botox for fine lines and wrinkles
Lauren D. Favorite Products: "My favorite products are Botox and our Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Cream. I love helping patients age gracefully while achieving natural looking results with this powerful neurotoxin. Results last 3-6 months depending on your skin and lifestyle factors. Our Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Cream is a combination of three different peptides to help combat lines and wrinkles topically! We lovingly refer to it as "Botox in a Bottle." When used in combination with Botox or Dysport it will help extend the results of these treatments, making lines and wrinkles less visible over time."

Lauren D. Favorite Services: "I enjoy using functional medicine to treat our patients and address underlying health issues. One of my favorite tools to use is peptide therapy, which is a safe and effective way to address auto-immune issues by upregulating certain components of the immune system. My favorite peptides to use are Thymosin-Alpha 1 and BPC-157. Thymosin-Alpha upregulates T cell function, which helps improve immunity against colds and flus and BPC-157 combats gastrointestinal disorders, such as leaky gut syndrome, IBS and Chron's Disease." 

Dr. Kristen Williams, md 
VI Peel and Botox

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Dr. Williams Favorite Products & Services: "I love combining VI Peel and Botox. VI Peel is a non-invasive way to renew my skin. A huge perk associated with this treatment is that it offers little to no skin discomfort with the results being fresh, healthy and vibrant skin! I love that I can get my Botox treatment the same day too! Botox is perfect for minimizing the lines I have (shh...don't tell!) and preventing new lines from forming. Prevention is key and Botox is the answer!"

Dr. Barbara Pacholec, MD
Plasma Pen & nutritional Blood Testing 

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Dr. Pacholec Favorite Product: "I love our new skin tightening device, Plasma Pen! Some of you may remember, I had my upper lip done in a LIVE demo over Zoom by Dr. Williams. She is a true artist! The procedure was not too painful (we have a two-step numbing process) and I could see results after just 1 week of downtime. Optimal results will occur at 12 weeks post-treatment, but this photo is after just one month! You can see my upper lip lines have almost disappeared!"

Dr Pacholec Favorite Service: "One of my favorite things about being a functional medicine doctor is helping people get to the root cause of illness. For many, this means determining cellular nutritional deficiencies which can impede weight loss success, contribute to thyroid and adrenal problems, lower immunity and even contribute to cancer risk. We have an amazing test developed by ALCAT Sciences to help determine your nutritional deficiency status for over 50 different types of vitamins, amino-acids and minerals. Results take about a week to come back and come with an e-book that is accessible on the patient portal and gives tons of detailed information on how you can improve your nutritional profile. It is one of the most useful tests we do at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss & Anti-Aging Medicine!"

Some of these products you can purchase on our Online Store or in office at your next visit. If you have any questions or wish to schedule your next visit or a FREE 15-minute consultation for new patients, please give Pacholec Center for Weight Loss & Anti-Aging Medicine a call!
Lutz
st pete

new year detox : reach your 2021  weight loss goals!

12/27/2020

 
Our providers at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss are excited to offer our new Detox Program just in time for the New Year! 2020 left many of us feeling sluggish, depressed, unmotivated and a couple (maybe more) pounds heavier. Let's start 2021 on a more positive note with clinically proven ways to improve energy, mental clarity, weight loss success and reduce fatigue and inflammation with a research-backed detox program! Pacholec Center for Weight Loss is excited to offer our Detox Program at an introductory discount for the month of January ONLY! Read below to find out how our detox program can benefit you and help you reach your weight loss and wellness goals quickly and efficiently! 
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What does the Detox Program Include?

The Detox Program offered at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss combines holistic treatments to support comprehensive phase 1 and phase 2 liver detoxification, support regular elimination, good digestion, and improve antioxidant protection. A 6-Day Detox Kit, manufactured by one of our favorite pharmaceutical-grade supplement manufacturers, Xymogen, is included to start off the month-long detox program. The supplements included in this kit include Opticleanse for liver detoxification and antioxidant protection, ColonX for supportive elimination of toxins and waste, ProbioMax DF for probiotic support to eliminate toxins, improve gut health and digestion and Drainage, which is a combination of homeopathic remedies to support elimination of toxins and reduce toxicity and inflammation within the body. 

The program also includes weekly lipotropic MIC injections to further assist in liver detoxification, fat burning and energy stimulation. The lipotropic MIC injections offered at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss are a combination of B vitamins and amino acids clinically proven to improve weight loss and detoxification success. Patients exhibit the most success when they receive these injections on a weekly basis in combination with exercise, diet and supplementation. 

To further enhance our patient's success on the Detox Program, our providers at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss have also included 2 Myer's Cocktail IV infusions with 1 Glutathione infusion for optimal detoxification support. The Myer's Cocktail infusions should be administered bi-weekly and the glutathione infusion is only recommended on a monthly basis. Myer's Cocktail and Glutathione work synergistically to detoxify the liver, reduce inflammation, improve fat burning and weight loss success, reduce memory loss and improve attentiveness among a suite of other benefits. 

The Detox Program offered at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss is a great way to achieve your weight loss and wellness goals effectively and quickly in 2021! While we can't promise 2021 will be "the best year yet", this program will definitely give you the tools to set good intentions, stay motivated and purge all the toxicity that 2020 threw at us over 12 long months. Open a new chapter in 2021 with energy, mental clarity and positivity by joining our month-long Detox Program at an introductory price! Call one of our clinics below for more information or to schedule your next appointment!
Lutz Clinic
St Pete Clinic

The Master Antioxidant: Benefits of Glutathione treatment

4/15/2020

 
glutathione detox
Glutathione is one of the body’s most effective antioxidant and detoxifying substances, especially for the brain, liver and skin. Glutathione is a naturally occurring antioxidant and dramatically improves the detoxification and rebuilding process in the body. You immune system requires Gluthathione to function properly.

Glutathione has also been shown to have strong anti-aging benefits, improving skin tone, texture and preventing formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Celebrities all over the world have endorsed Glutathione for its antioxidant and anti-aging benefits, leading to nicknames such as the "Master Antioxidant" or the "Lightening Agent" due to its ability to decrease pigmentation. Read below for more information!


Three Immune Functions of Glutathione Include:
  •  Protection of our immune cells through its antioxidant activity
  • Optimization and improvement in function of our lymphocytes (Lymphocytes are white blood cells that are also one of the body's main types of immune cells used to fight infection)
  • Decrease in inflammation and prevention of free radical damage. Glutathione-enhanced T-cells (another type of immune cell) are able to produce more infection-fighting substances, thereby controlling both bacterial and viral infections. 

Three Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Functions of Glutathione Include:
  • Glutathione decreases the melanin (pigmentation) in your skin and has also been found to decrease wrinkle production and increase skin elasticity
  • Decreases inflammation and/or puffiness of skin, which tends to increase as we age. As a result, glutathione helps make skin more supple, firm and retains more moisture. 
  • Protects mitochondria from oxidative and free radical damage. Mitochondria are the cells that produce ATP used for energy, so glutathione also helps with energy production and fat burning. 

At Pacholec Center for Weight Loss, we offer Glutathione as an oral spray, or as an add-on IV treatment to one of our other nutritive IV drips. Contact one of our offices for more information or to set up your next appointment!

Lutz office
st pete office

7 Anti-Aging  Benefits of Peptide Therapy and Human Growth Hormone (HGH)

2/27/2020

 
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Growth hormone deficiency increases as we age, causing a loss in muscle mass, decreased libido, and a reduction in skin elasticity and bone density. It can also contribute to weight gain or stubborn weight loss. Peptide therapy is a relatively new anti-aging treatment, which can reverse the effects of aging by rejuvenating the release of growth hormone in the body. The Ipamorelin/CJC 1295 formula which our practitioners recommend does this by stimulating production of IGF-1 by the pituitary gland and hypothalamus. This combination also inhibits the release of somatostatin from the pituitary gland, which is a growth hormone inhibitory factor (GHIH). As compared to Sermorelin, Ipamorelin/CJC 1295 has a longer half-life, higher efficacy and more pronounced anti-aging benefits.

7 Uses and Benefits of Ipamorelin + CJC 1295
  1. Decreases Body Fat – This combination of peptide therapy boosts fat metabolism and burns carbohydrates, which supports healthy weight loss.
  2. Increases Muscle Mass – As we age, our muscle mass and muscle tone naturally declines, and this treatment can help to maintain a toned body shape.
  3. Increases Vitality – a patient who is on this type of treatment long-term, may notice an increase in strength, energy and feel more youthful overall.
  4. Improvements in Seep Quality – Another not-so-fun consequence of aging is the decrease in slow wave sleep. The Ipamorelin/CJC 1295 combination stimulates deep sleep, which allows the brain to relax, thereby reducing stress and anxiety.
  5. Increases Bone Density – This combination peptide therapy is great for both men and women alike in preventing the development of osteoporosis. It is especially beneficial for post-menopausal women who are at a higher risk for osteoporosis.
  6. Boosts Immunity – Anti-aging peptide therapy will enhance your immune function, making you less susceptible to disease and infection.
  7. Rejuvenates the Skin – Wrinkles, uneven skin, poor elasticity and pigmentation get worse as growth hormone is depleted by the aging process. Ipamorelin/CJC 1295 enhances growth hormone production, which in turn promotes skin elasticity and eliminates crepey skin.
Possible Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
The Ipamorelin/CJC 1295 combination is a new and improved formula for Sermorelin, which eliminates many of the negative side effects patients used to experience from using Sermorelin. Adverse reactions and side effects are limited but may include reactions at the injection site, including redness, swelling or flushing of the face. In clinical trials, less than 1% of patients experienced dizziness, headache or hyperactivity after long-term treatment with peptide therapy. Overall, the peer-reviewed literature on the safety and efficacy of exogenous growth hormones have found that there are no potential side effects. 

How to Use
Ipamorelin/CJC 1295 is a daily injection prescribed by one of our practitioners and created by an accredited and fully licensed compounding pharmacy. The medication is shipped to the patient's house with instructions on how to self-administer. If you are interested in learning more, please call Pacholec Center for Weight Loss at either our Lutz, FL or St Petersburg, FL location. 
Lutz office
St Pete Office

Dr Pacholec Celebrates 20 Years of Practice

1/28/2020

 
Happy New Year to all of my wonderful patients! 2019 marked 20 years since I opened my practice in Lutz, FL; it’s hard to imagine it has been so long! Back in 1999, Central Pasco Weight Loss Center began in a shared office suite with Dr. Diana Calderone in a building that was surrounded by oaks, ferns, farms and cows. State Rd 54 certainly did not look like the sprawling metropolis it is today.

Over the past 20 years, many of you have trusted me with your care and I have truly appreciated all of your warmth and love as I have supported and guided you on your weight loss, wellness and anti-aging endeavors. There have been many special moments I have enjoyed with each of you. I have been honored to watch your children grow from babies to young adults. I have also enjoyed treating your close family members, including your brothers, sisters, parents and friends. You are each so special to me and I wanted to write this letter to make my feelings known.

For most of these past 20 years, it was just me and a small staff, but as time and technology have progressed, I have tried to keep up with the modernization as well. Fortunately, I now have a wonderful Practice Manager, Lauren Partridge (who also happens to be my amazing daughter) who has helped me catch up with the digital world. Together, we have grown the practice to include two offices across Tampa Bay, added additional practitioners, transitioned to electronic records with electronic prescribing capabilities and expanded our online presence via Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

Many of you have also met our nurse practitioner, Lauren DeNeve, ARNP, who has been with us for the past year and a half. She specializes in functional medicine and has had many years of experience treating patients with all kinds of hormone issues, including perimenopause, menopause, and thyroid and adrenal issues. She has a special interest in Hashimoto’s thyroid disease and other autoimmune diseases as well. Her expertise in functional medicine has been a great asset to our health team and has helped many of you overcome stubborn weight loss to better meet your goals!

More recently, I have also hired a new physician for my practice, Dr. Kristen Williams, MD. She has a special interest in aesthetics and facial procedures and is very knowledgeable with pharmacology and nutrition. She has introduced MINT thread lift procedures to the practice, which have already been quite popular and successful for many of our patients! Her compassion and friendly attitude have allowed her to already build strong relationships with many of you even though she has only been with us since October 2019.

I am also excited about all the new changes coming our way for 2020. Our St Petersburg location has been growing since its inception in 2018 – we are excited to celebrate our 2-year anniversary in February! A few months ago, we began IV vitamin and nutrition therapy, which has proved to be both popular and successful for many of our patients. As an anniversary present, we will be adding on a few more formulas devised for athletic performance, recovery and energy – so stay tuned for more information and discounts regarding that! Ms. DeNeve and Dr. Williams continue to grow the aesthetics aspect of our practice and are excited to introduce a few new types of filler treatments in the coming year. We also joined Brilliant Distinctions a few months ago and are happy we have been able to offer our aesthetic patients discounts and loyalty rewards on Botox and facial filler procedures through this program.

Overall, I just want to thank each of you for all your years of love and support to me and my staff. Even if you are no longer a patient or come in only once or twice a year, I wanted you to know that I appreciate each and every one of you; you have all touched my life in different ways! Let’s all continue our pursuit of health, happiness and wellness for 2020!
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With love, 

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Our 20-Year Anniversary Sale has now finished. Please call one of our offices for more information or to set up your next appointment.
Tampa Office
St Pete Office

Slow the Signs of Aging With Dr. Pacholec’s 6 Step Program

10/22/2018

 
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Aging is a part of life; there are advantages, like getting wiser (hopefully) and there are disadvantages, like getting wrinkles. For decades, it was just assumed that as we got older, our bones would ache, our skin would lose elasticity, our minds would get foggy, our libido would become stagnant and our waistlines would increase, even as our appetites decreased! Traditional healthcare practitioners would tell patients that weight gain along with these aches and pains are “normal” or “expected” with age, but the truth is, these symptoms are not normal and should not be expected! Research in the field of anti-aging medicine continues to achieve significant results as they document the effects of lifestyle, diet, weight loss and nutrition supplementation on aging. A common mis-conception and critique of anti-aging medicine is that the field sells “endless youth” and “immortality” as a focal point, but the truth is, the field promotes taking responsibility for your own health and believes that well-being doesn’t have to be sacrificed as we age.

Making good health a top priority becomes more important as we age, because our cells are not immortal, and they do decay over time. The rate of the decay is the actual target of anti-aging medicine, and this is what anti-aging medicine refers to when it makes it claims to slow the aging process or even reverse signs of aging in some cases. If you can decrease the rate of decay, you have the potential to add years to your life by giving your cells the nutrition and support they need to sustain your body. Dr. Pacholec firmly believes that an active lifestyle, healthy diet, appropriate nutritional supplementation, medical weight loss, hormonal regulation and regular blood testing for biomarkers related to aging can significantly slow a patient’s rate of aging and add longevity to a patient’s lifespan. Dr. Pacholec encourages patients to take an active role in their healthcare while also promoting these principles at both her Lutz, Fl and St. Petersburg, FL weight loss clinics. Read below for Dr. Pacholec’s 6 Step Program on how you can significantly slow the aging process, increase your well-being and add years to your life!

Step 1: Stop Consuming Processed Foods, and Start Eating Whole Foods
We talk about it in pretty much every blog post but establishing healthy eating habits should always be a top priority! Processed foods are high in refined sugars, fat, salt, preservatives and other artificial flavors and colors which create an excess of free radicals in the body. In brief, free radicals are unstable molecules, meaning they are missing an electron so they are in a reactive state. They are responsible for many disease states and can adversely effect lipids, proteins and DNA. Antioxidants, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin E and beta-carotene, are needed to decrease the abundance of free radicals, and organic fruits and vegetables are rich sources of these molecules. Without these powerful antioxidants, an excess of free radicals can lead to oxidative stress on the body, which increases inflammation, speeds up the aging process and has been linked to certain cancers and heart disease. Vitamin E, found in kale, spinach and almonds and sunflower seeds, increases immunocompetence by increasing immunity and providing resistance to certain bacterial infections as well as inhibiting tumor growth. Vitamin C, found in most fruits and vegetables, has been shown to prevent cancer in multiple studies by increasing immunity and detoxifying the liver.

However, it is important to note that not all fruits and vegetables are created equal. Genetically modified (GM), non-organic foods can also increase free radical damage due to pesticide use and these crops may also be of lower nutritional value due to genetic modifications used to increase crop yield. GM crops are also used in approximately 75% of all processed foods, and 80% of food consumed by Americans is processed. Free radicals also shorten the length of the telomeres on your DNA strands, which contributes to cellular aging and degeneration. In short, put down the cheeseburger, French fry, pizza and soft drink and pick up an organic apple and kale salad instead! Always choose water over soda. Your cells will thank you! Dr. Pacholec offers nutritional advice and meal planning as part of her weight loss and anti-aging programs at both her St. Petersburg, FL and Lutz, FL locations. 

Step 2: Get Active and Lose Weight!
According to the US Department for Health and Human Services (HHS), only 5% of Americans get the recommended 30 minutes of exercise per day. 30 minutes of exercise can be anything from brisk walking to swimming to strength training. Exercise is not only important if you are trying to lose weight or maintain weight loss, it helps prevent certain diseases like diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Aerobic exercise, like running, jogging or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) have been shown to increase memory, thinking skills and decrease one’s risk of dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease. Research has shown that this type of exercise can increase the size of the hippocampus, which is the area of the brain linked to memory and learning. This research concluded that walking briskly for at least 1 hour a week can increase memory function.  Household activities, like active mopping, vacuuming, leaf raking or gardening also count as aerobic exercise and can help increase your memory function. If you want to try something more intense, try this 24-minute HIIT workout you can do right in your living room! In addition to weight loss, exercise also helps to lift your mood, benefits sleep, and lowers blood pressure, so stop making excuses, and get active today!

Step 3: Supplement Your Diet with Appropriate Vitamins and Minerals
Collagen peptides are one of the hottest topics in health and alternative medicine right now. Rightly so, because collagen is a structural protein which helps maintain the skin’s elasticity, supports the strength of bones, tendons and cartilage and helps build the mucous lining of the gastrointestinal tract, thus preventing or even reversing signs of leaky gut. It accounts for almost 30% of the body’s total protein, especially in connective tissue. Most individuals do not consume enough protein, and even if they do consume meat, they are not receiving the parts of the animal that are richest in collagen. Bone broth is the richest natural source of collagen, but it takes 24 hours or more to create a big batch. If you have the time, it is tasty and can be incorporated into many different recipes from pasta sauce to soups to curry. However, if you are on the go or do not like cooking, your best bet will be to take a collagen supplement. Dr. Pacholec recommends Whole Body Collagen, by Designs for Health, which is a synergistic blend of three different types of collagen designed to support bones, joints and skin and achieve optimal health and slow the aging process. Dr. Pacholec also recommends this supplement for patients who receive Botox or facial filler treatments, since it increases the skin’s elasticity and can help make the results of these treatments last longer.

Vitamin D3 and Fish Oil are other supplements Dr. Pacholec recommends specifically for anti-aging benefits. In recent studies, vitamin D3 has been shown to have specific anti-aging effects, increasing longevity of cells by 33% in genetic studies. It was also shown to slow aging effects on specific protein cells by suppressing protein insolubility. Protein insolubility has been implicated in a number of chronic diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, Type 2 Diabetes and some forms of heart disease. If you are deficient in vitamin D3, which you likely are if you don’t work outside or get adequate sun exposure (at least 30 minutes of direct sunlight per day), Dr. Pacholec recommends 2,000 International Units (IU) daily to maintain optimal levels of vitamin D3 in your blood. Some people may need more, depending on how low their current level is and Dr. Pacholec can test for this at both her Lutz, FL and St. Petersburg, FL locations.

Fish Oil is another supplement promoted by health practitioners for its powerful anti-aging effects. Fish oil is composed of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential elements for brain growth, development and help tone and firm the skin. They cannot be produced within the body and must be acquired through food. Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids include oily fish, like salmon and mackerel, tree nut oils, algae and krill. Anti-aging benefits include healthy skin, nails, hair and protections from heart disease, memory loss and reduction in inflammation. Omega-3s also prevent and curb side effects from diabetes, cancer and arthritis, and may even help reverse signs of these diseases in some cases. They also assist in weight loss, by maintaining a healthy metabolism. Fish oil can also be used to help combat wrinkles and fine lines by smoothing out the skin and helping the skin retain its moisture and elasticity. Dr. Pacholec recommends taking this supplement in conjunction with Botox or facial filler treatments, such as Juvederm or Volbella, for optimal anti-aging skin effects. Dr. Pacholec dispenses several different kinds of pharmaceutical-grade fish oil supplements from her St. Petersburg, FL and Lutz, FL locations as well as on Dr. Pacholec’s online store.

All of the supplements described above are available for purchase at either Dr. Pacholec’s Lutz, FL or St. Petersburg, FL locations and can also be purchased at our online store. All you need is your email address to set up an account and you can enjoy the convenience of having your favorite supplements shipped directly to your door! Free shipping is available as well.

Step 4: Regulate Your Hormones
Regulating your estrogen, progesterone and testosterone levels is a great way to reap the rewards of anti-aging medicine, with very little daily effort. A hormonal imbalance can affect everything from mood to weight gain to fatigue to libido. Dr. Pacholec only uses bio-identical hormone therapy (BHRT), which utilizes hormones identical in structure to human hormones. These hormones, sourced from plants like yams, are more readily available in the human body and have a high rate of efficacy when compared to synthetic hormones. Dr. Pacholec creates gentle and custom formulations of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone to treat patients with hormonal imbalances at both her St Petersburg, FL and Lutz, FL locations. These treatments are safe with minimal side effects and patients rave about their powerful anti-aging effects. Many patients who have been on long-term hormone therapy report an increase in sex drive, a decrease in menopausal side effects, increased memory, better mood, weight loss and lower fatigue. When combined with Botox and facial filler treatments, Dr. Pacholec’s anti-aging program at both her St. Petersburg, FL and Lutz, FL locations will have you feeling 20 years younger!

Step 5: Receive Botox and Facial Filler Treatments to Reduce Wrinkles
Botox and facial filler treatments like Juvederm and Volbella are the only FDA-approved ways to medically reduce the signs of aging. Botox injections smooth lines and wrinkles, while facial fillers can give a more youthful appearance to a patient’s face by enhancing the lips and perioral lines that run from the nose to the mouth. There are also proven medical benefits, including a reduction in migraines and sweating. Botox injections are administered every 3-4 months to keep wrinkles at bay. Facial filler treatments last longer, ranging from 9-18 months, depending on the type of treatment. Dr. Pacholec’s nurse practitioner, Lauren DeNeve, offers free consultations at the Lutz, FL location to give patients an idea of how many units or syringes they would need to start either a Botox or facial filler treatment. Appointments with Nurse DeNeve are by appointment on Mondays and Tuesdays in the Lutz, FL office. In combination with the anti-aging supplements and lifestyle modifications discussed above, Botox and facial filler injections can help you look and feel younger and more confident.

Step 6: Use Anti-Aging Blood Tests to Monitor Markers of Aging
Although anti-aging medicine may sometimes sound cliché or make people skeptical about its claims for youthful regeneration, the foundations of this branch of medicine are deeply rooted in scientific studies on cellular biology. Anti-aging isn’t just about looking younger, and not even necessarily about feeling younger; the principal focus in anti-aging medicine concerns the age of our individual cells rather than our age in years. By targeting our cellular age, physicians in the field of anti-aging medicine can provide lifestyle and diet recommendations that are specific to our individual genes, which in turn makes us feel younger and look younger too. The best marker of aging at the cellular level are telomeres, which are sections of DNA at the tips of chromosomes that serve as a cap for genetic material. Each time a cell replicates, its telomeres get shorter. As telomeres get shorter, the life span of the cell decreases. Therefore, measuring the length of telomeres, or age adjusted telomere length, is the most accurate way to measure someone’s biological age. Specific recommendations on diet and lifestyle are based off these measurements and will help to slow a person’s aging and prevent age-related diseases. Things that amplify telomere loss include an inflammatory diet, including a high consumption of processed foods, artificial sweeteners, sodas, saturated fats and trans fats, an increase in oxidative stress (may be induced from diet), a high body mass index (BMI), a large proportion of belly fat, lack of physical activity or sedentary lifestyle, micronutrient deficiencies (specifically vitamin D3), insulin resistance, diabetes, substantial weight gain and obesity.

Dr. Pacholec offers specialized testing through Spectracell Laboratories at both her Lutz, FL and St Petersburg, FL locations that calculates the Patient Telomere Score, which is based off telomere length on white blood cells (T-lymphocytes). This score is compared to average telomere length on T-lymphocytes from a sample of Americans in the same age range, and scores that are above the average are regarded as “younger” due to their increased telomere length. An above average score is therefore desirable. While it is not possible to “grow back” telomeres that have been shortened, a modification in diet and lifestyle following the recommendations outlined in this article can reduce the rate of telomere loss, which would increase the Patient Telomere Score. Dr. Pacholec recommends performing this test at least annually to determine the rate of telomere loss as lifestyle factors change.
​
Another anti-aging test Dr. Pacholec recommends at both her Lutz, FL and St. Petersburg, FL locations is the micronutrient test from Spectracell Laboratories or the NutrEval test from Genova Diagnostics. Generally, both tests determine the cellular abundance of amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals in different types of cells. These tests can accurately and precisely calculate what a patient’s nutrient deficiencies are. People who are low in antioxidants, for example, will be more susceptible for oxidative stress and a faster rate of aging and are at risk for various age-related diseases, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, dementia and Alzheimer’s. When used in combination with the telomeres test described above, a patient can get a clear and accurate picture of what their risk factors are for age-related diseases and will also receive specific diet recommendations based on their nutritional deficiencies.

This program gives a clear overview of the approach Dr. Pacholec uses when assessing and treating her patients at both her Lutz, FL and St. Petersburg, FL locations. Weight loss involves so much more than just an appetite suppressant and heart check. Hormonal support involves so much more than just a few applications of bio-identical hormone cream. Achieving optimal health and reaping the rewards of anti-aging medicine is a multi-faceted and holistic treatment that takes time, perseverance, and motivation. It is difficult to change your whole lifestyle, but with support from Dr. Pacholec and her staff at both her Lutz, FL and St. Petersburg, FL locations, it can be done! Restore your confidence and vitality today with Dr. Pacholec’s anti-aging program. The results will speak for themselves. Remember, together, we will succeed!

References
Free Radicals, Antioxidants, and Functional Foods: Impacts on Human Health
President's Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition
Regular Exercise Changes the Brain to Improve Memory, Thinking Skills
​
Antioxidants: What You Need to Know
New Study Uncovers Unexpected Anti-Aging Benefits of Vitamin D

 

4  Questions  About  human  growth  hormone  and  anti-aging  medicine

6/8/2018

 
If you read our previous post about our new product, Secretropin, you may be wondering what exactly human growth hormone (HGH) does in the body. Even though it sounds similar to human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), it is actually very different. Both are used for growth and development, but HCG is produced by the placenta during pregnancy to aid in growth of the fetus, while HGH is produced by the pituitary gland throughout life and has a wide range of metabolic and growth effects on the body. As we age, the production of HGH goes down, which contributes to many of the detrimental side effects of aging, including memory loss, poor sleep and insomnia, looser skin, hair loss, fatigue, and lack of muscle tone. HCG gets a lot of hype in the diet and weight loss industry, and in the past, HGH has been pretty well known in professional athletics for its physical performance enhancing abilities. However, HGH is responsible for so much more than just its ability to enhance performance. It is a natural testosterone booster, which can be used to increase vitality, improve sleep, stimulate hair growth, increase muscle tone and so much more. It is often used to treat both children and adults with signs of HGH deficiency, but more recently, has gotten popular for it's powerful anti-aging effects. Read below to learn more about this all-encompassing hormone. 

1. What are the anti-aging effects of HGH and how does it work?
HGH is responsible for many different metabolic and growth processes in the body. It keeps skin smooth and youthful, reduces hair loss, increases muscle tone and strength, builds stronger bones, reduces your risk of heart disease and it improves sleep, memory and cognitive function. HGH is a hormone which is closely linked to other metabolic hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, so any disruption to these hormones can lead to decreased production of HGH. The peak of HGH production is at night, between the hours of 8pm and 4am, and it is known to increase melatonin production during this time, which is why it promotes deeper sleep. Sounds great right?! So if HGH is produced naturally by the body and production continues throughout life, why do so many millions of people suffer from these ailments? Well, unfortunately, there is no easy answer, but there are many physical, emotional and environmental factors that play a role in decreasing the natural production of HGH over time. HGH naturally decreases as we age, but hormone imbalances in testosterone and estrogen levels, a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, lack of green vegetables and fresh fruit, obesity, nutrient deficiency, fatty liver or liver degeneration and depression are some of the factors which can decrease HGH and if not corrected, eventually lead to true HGH deficiency.

2. How do I know if I am deficient in HGH?
There are certain symptoms that are specific to true HGH deficiency in both children and adults. See below for more information. 
In Children:
  • less than 2 in of growth per year and being significantly shorter than other children of the same age
  • delayed puberty
  • slow teeth development 
  • increased fat around stomach and face
  • underdeveloped bridge of nose
  • prominent forehead
  • slow hair growth
In Adults:
  • depression/anxiety
  • hair loss
  • lack of interest in sexual activity
  • decreased muscle strength and mass
  • memory loss
  • loose, dry skin
  • fatigue
  • increased belly fat
  • those at risk for heart disease, with elevated triglyceride and LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels
  • insulin resistance

There are natural ways to increase your HGH, which include being more active, specifically engaging in a high interval intensity training (HIIT) workout, which has been proven to be the best exercise for increasing HGH levels. Supplementation of l-arginine, l-glutamine and vitamin C have shown to have a great effect on HGH levels and laughter has proven to also increase HGH levels by as much as 30%! Secretropin is a combination of amino acids, including l-arginine and l-glutamine, which has been proven to increase HGH naturally, thereby eliminating many of the negative side effects that occur with HGH injections. 

3. Can HGH be used to for weight loss?
Yes! Even though HGH isn't as effective as HCG, it does promote weight loss, primarily by inducing better sleep (which in turn speeds up metabolism), increasing muscle mass, and reducing belly fat. It also does not require you to adhere to a strict diet, so as long as you are eating a healthy and varied diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, you should start shedding some pounds. You won't lose weight quickly, but by improving your metabolism and overall well-being, the weight will naturally shed.

4. How does Secretropin differ from HGH injections?
HGH is notoriously difficult for providers to test, and levels can fluctuate for a variety of reasons. When patients receive injectable HGH, this eliminates their body's own production of HGH and therefore, they are relying on their physician to accurately administer a correct dose. Unfortunately, due to the many different variables affecting HGH levels as described above, it is difficult for physicians to prescribe an accurate dose for injections. This leads to many negative side effects, which are described below. 
Negative Side Effects of HGH Injections:
  • enlargement of fingers and toes
  • skeletal changes
  • lengthening of the jaw
  • growth of orbit
  • internal organ enlargement (cardiomegaly is associated with HGH abuse)
  • increased risk of carpel tunnel syndrome 
  • fuller looking face
  • thickening and coarsening of skin at high doses (known as "elephant epidermis")
  • increased risk of hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia

For these reasons, Dr. Pacholec believes it is safer to naturally support the body's own production of HGH. Secretropin, is an all-natural supplement to boost the body's own production of HGH, thereby eliminating all of the negative side effects associated with injection of HGH. It is a daily supplement, administered before bed, which elevates HGH to levels that are acceptable for each unique person. It has been in use for over 20 years, and no adverse side effects have been reported.

Interested in learning more? Call Dr. Pacholec's St Petersburg, FL or Lutz, FL offices to set up your anti-aging consultation today!


Secretropin:  the  Natural Alternative To  HGH  Injections

6/4/2018

 
Secretropin® is one of the latest innovations in anti-aging medicine and natural hormone replacement therapy. Patients of Pacholec Center for Weight Loss in Lutz, FL and St Petersburg, FL who are looking to improve immunity, regulate their hormones or achieve better health and wellness overall can benefit from this easy oral bedtime spray. It is a natural alternative to Human Growth Hormone (HGH) injections and works to stimulate the natural release and production of HGH by your own body.

How Does Secretropin® Work?
As a secretagogoue, Secretropin® enhances the signals sent to the pituitary gland that tell it to secrete more HGH and it works with the body’s natural systems rather than eliminating the body’s own production of HGH, which often occurs with HGH injections.
Secretropin® combines natural amino acids to increase the production and release of natural human growth factors. This unique formula allows patients to experience the same results as they would receive from getting HGH injections, without damaging the body’s natural ability to produce HGH and Somatostatin.

Benefits of Secretropin® HGH Treatment
  • Increased immune support
  • Improved muscle tone and exercise performance
  • Improved and deeper sleep
  • Reduction in wrinkles and fine lines
  • Firmer skin
  • Increased hair growth and vitality
  • Improved memory and sharper vision

With Dr. Pacholec’s assistance, patients can experience the highest level of benefits from this amazing innovation in anti-aging medicine and natural hormone therapy. Call Dr. Pacholec's Lutz, FL or St. Petersburg, FL location to set up an appointment for your anti-aging consultation today!
 
​Directions for Use
Start with three sprays under the tongue and hold for 30 seconds. Administer at bedtime. 
                          
Secretropin is used to increase HGH levels and promote weight loss.

    Barbara Pacholec, MD

    Dr Pacholec is Board Certified in Bariatric Medicine and Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine. She has run a successful practice specializing in medical weight loss, hormone replacement therapy and anti-aging/regenerative and functional medicine for the past 20 years in Lutz, FL in Tampa Bay. In January 2018, she opened a satellite practice in St Petersburg, FL which also specializes in medical weight loss, hormone replacement therapy, and anti-aging/regenerative and functional medicine.

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