FAQ
Weight Loss
How much weight can I expect to lose?
A common question—and one of the hardest to answer with a single number.\
Weight loss varies from person to person based on factors like your starting weight, medical conditions, medications, activity level, nutrition, sleep, and genetics.
Most people using modern GLP-1 medications, combined with healthy lifestyle changes, can expect meaningful weight loss over time. Clinical studies have shown that many patients lose approximately 10–20% of their starting body weight over 12–18 months, depending on the medication and dose. Some people lose more, while others lose less.
It’s important to remember that weight is only one measure of success. Many patients also notice improvements in:
-
- Blood pressure
- Blood sugar
- Energy levels
- Mobility
- Sleep quality
- Confidence
- Quality of life
- Our goal isn’t rapid weight loss—it’s sustainable health that lasts.
Do I have to stay on medication forever?
Not necessarily—but it’s helpful to think of obesity the same way we think about high blood pressure or diabetes.
For many people, obesity is a chronic medical condition influenced by genetics, hormones, and the body’s natural tendency to regain lost weight. GLP-1 medications help regulate appetite and improve feelings of fullness, but they don’t permanently change the underlying biology.
Some patients choose to remain on medication long term, while others transition to lower doses or discontinue treatment after establishing healthy habits. If medication is stopped, appetite often returns over time, and some weight regain is common.
We’ll work together to determine the approach that best fits your goals, health, and preferences. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.
What should I eat while taking a GLP-1 medication?
There isn’t a “GLP-1 diet,” but certain eating habits can help you feel your best and reduce side effects.
I encourage patients to focus on:
- Protein at each meal
- Fruits and vegetables
- High-fiber foods
- Whole grains
- Healthy fats
- Plenty of water
Because GLP-1 medications slow stomach emptying, eating smaller meals and chewing slowly can improve comfort.
Foods that are high in fat or heavily processed may increase nausea or bloating in some people, especially early in treatment.
Rather than aiming for perfection, focus on building consistent habits you can maintain for years—not weeks.
What side effects are common?
Most side effects are mild and improve as your body adjusts.
Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Feeling full quickly
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Mild stomach discomfort
- Occasional heartburn
These symptoms are often temporary and can usually be managed by:
- Eating smaller meals
- Staying well hydrated
- Prioritizing protein
- Avoiding large, high-fat meals
- Increasing your dose gradually as directed
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration, or other symptoms that concern you.
Do I need to count calories?
Not necessarily.
Some people find calorie tracking helpful, while others find it stressful or difficult to maintain.
Our focus is on building sustainable habits that naturally support a healthy calorie intake. That may include:
- Prioritizing protein
- Eating slowly
- Recognizing hunger and fullness cues
- Choosing high-fiber foods
- Staying physically active
For some patients, tracking food for a short period can increase awareness. For others, it’s not needed. We’ll choose the approach that best supports your long-term success.
How much protein do I need?
Protein plays an important role in preserving muscle while losing weight and can help you feel full longer.
Your exact needs depend on your age, weight, activity level, and health conditions. Many adults trying to lose weight benefit from consuming roughly 1.2–1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of ideal or adjusted body weight per day, though some people may need more or less.
Rather than focusing on perfection, aim to include a source of protein with every meal and snack.
Good options include:
- Greek yogurt
- Cottage cheese
- Eggs
- Chicken
- Fish
- Lean beef
- Tofu
- Beans
- Protein shakes when needed
We’ll personalize your protein goal based on your health and goals.
Mental Health
How do I know if I have anxiety?
Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time. Anxiety becomes a medical condition when worry or fear is persistent, difficult to control, and begins interfering with daily life.
Common symptoms include:
- Excessive worrying
- Feeling restless or on edge
- Racing thoughts
- Trouble concentrating
- Difficulty sleeping
- Muscle tension
- Feeling easily irritated
- Physical symptoms such as a racing heart, nausea, or shortness of breath
Anxiety can look different for everyone. During your visit, we’ll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and life circumstances to determine whether your symptoms may be related to an anxiety disorder or another medical condition.
How do I know if I'm depressed?
Depression is more than simply feeling sad.
Symptoms may include:
- Persistent low mood
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Low energy
- Changes in sleep
- Changes in appetite
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Hopelessness
These symptoms typically last at least two weeks and interfere with work, relationships, or daily life.
Depression is common, treatable, and not a sign of weakness.
When should I consider medication?
Medication is one of several effective treatment options for anxiety and depression.
Some people benefit from lifestyle changes or therapy alone, while others experience the greatest improvement from combining medication with counseling.
Medication may be appropriate if symptoms:
- Interfere with work or relationships
- Persist despite lifestyle changes
- Cause significant distress
- Prevent you from enjoying daily life
Together we’ll discuss your symptoms, preferences, medical history, and treatment goals before deciding whether medication is right for you.
How long do antidepressants take to work?
Unlike pain medications, antidepressants don’t work immediately.
Some people notice small improvements in sleep, energy, or anxiety within 1–2 weeks, but mood often takes 4–8 weeks to improve. Full benefit may take several months.
It’s important to continue taking medication as prescribed, even if you don’t notice immediate changes.
Besides medication, what else helps anxiety and depression?
Research consistently shows that healthy lifestyle habits can improve mental health.
Helpful strategies include:
- Regular exercise
- Consistent sleep
- Balanced nutrition
- Limiting alcohol
- Stress management techniques
- Mindfulness or meditation
- Strong social connections
- Counseling or therapy
Medication works best when combined with healthy daily habits whenever possible.
Acne
Why am I getting acne as an adult?
Adult acne is incredibly common and can affect people well into their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
Common causes include:
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Genetics
- Stress
- Certain medications
- Cosmetics or skincare products
Having adult acne doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. Effective treatment is available.
How long does acne treatment take to work?
Patience is important.
Most prescription acne treatments require 6–12 weeks before significant improvement is noticeable.
Some treatments may initially cause mild dryness or temporary worsening before your skin begins improving.
Consistency is one of the biggest predictors of success.
When should I see a medical provider for acne?
Consider scheduling an evaluation if:
- Over-the-counter products haven’t helped after several months
- Acne is painful or leaving scars
- You’re developing deep cysts or nodules
- Acne is affecting your confidence or quality of life
- You think your acne may be hormonal
Prescription treatments can often significantly improve acne and reduce the risk of permanent scarring.
Practice
What is Golden Hive Health & Wellness?
Golden Hive Health & Wellness is a concierge telemedicine practice providing personalized healthcare for adults. We specialize in evidence-based medical weight management, anxiety and depression treatment, and adult acne care. Our goal is to provide convenient, accessible, and individualized care that focuses on your long-term health—not just treating symptoms.
What is concierge medicine?
Concierge medicine is a healthcare model that prioritizes personalized care and greater access to your provider.
As a member, you’ll have direct communication with your provider for questions, medication concerns, and treatment adjustments between scheduled visits. This allows us to provide more responsive, individualized care than is often possible in a traditional medical practice.
Is everything done through telemedicine?
Yes.
All appointments are completed securely through telemedicine, allowing you to receive care from the comfort of your home.
Telemedicine makes healthcare more convenient by eliminating travel time, reducing missed work, and making follow-up care easier to fit into your schedule.
Who can become a patient?
We currently care for adults (18 years and older).
Patients must be physically located in a state where your provider is licensed at the time of their appointment.
Which states do you serve?
California and Utah currently. Washington and Arizona in Fall of 2026.
Can I message my provider between appointments?
Yes.
Members have direct access to their provider for appropriate questions, medication concerns, and treatment guidance between scheduled visits.
Our goal is to provide timely support while encouraging patients to schedule appointments whenever more in-depth evaluation is needed. Messages received after hours, on weekends, or holidays will be answered as soon as possible on the next business day.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Do you accept insurance?
Golden Hive Health & Wellness operates as a self-pay practice.
By working directly with patients instead of insurance companies, we can provide longer appointments, personalized care, and more direct access to your provider.
Some laboratory tests, prescriptions, or outside services may still be billed through your insurance depending on the provider and your individual coverage.
Are medications included in my membership?
Membership covers your medical care, ongoing management, and provider access.
Prescription medications, laboratory testing, and pharmacy costs are separate unless otherwise specified.
What if I have an emergency?
Golden Hive Health & Wellness is not an emergency medical practice.
If you are experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing, thoughts of harming yourself or others, severe allergic reactions, or another medical emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department immediately.
Still have questions?
Choosing a healthcare provider is an important decision, and we want you to feel confident in your choice. If you don’t see your question answered here, we’re happy to help. Reach out to us anytime—we’d love to learn more about your goals and help you determine whether Golden Hive Health & Wellness is the right fit for you.