Metabolic
Aesthetics
Program
Aster Aesthetics
Your Journey, at a Glance
Introduction & Program Foundations
Navigating Your GLP-1 Journey
Nutrition Foundations
Support & Next Steps
Welcome to your Metabolic
Support Journey
We're so glad you're here.
Our medical weight loss offering is designed to support more than the number on the scale. This is about improving metabolic health, regulating appetite and blood sugar, and creating sustainable changes that feel realistic in your day-to-day life.
Your plan is personalized, monitored, and guided with intention. You'll receive clear dosing, ongoing support, and check-ins along the way—so you're never left guessing or navigating this alone.
Progress isn't linear, and that's okay. Consistency, patience, and trust in the process matter more than perfection. We're honored to support you in this chapter.
— The Aster Team
A Smarter Approach
to Your Health
Wellness
Weight can affect our wellbeing in multiple ways. It can impact our ability to partake in our favorite activities or spend quality time with our families. People who struggle with excess weight may also experience anxiety around their appearance. Research shows that these factors can negatively influence mental health. Our perception of ourselves has a large impact on the way we see the world.
Health
Weight affects our overall health. Studies have shown that carrying extra weight can lead to decreased function in every system of the body, ranging from poor respiratory and reproductive function to decreased memory and mood. Being overweight has also been shown to place patients at an increased risk for serious adverse health events such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type 2, stroke, cancer, and musculoskeletal disorders like osteoporosis.
Confidence & Mental Health
Weight affects our confidence. The voice of insecurity and self doubt can be hard to overcome. Understanding more about how our self esteem is shaped and influenced within our minds can help us to gain awareness for change. Becoming confident in your body can help you to thrive in all aspects of your life. Take your health back and watch your confidence soar.
Throughout the Program
you can expect...
Individualized care tailored to you
Nonjudgmental, inclusive, and supportive environment
Ongoing access to our team for guidance and questions
Commitment to your long-term health and success
This program is built around thoughtful and individualized care. You can expect ongoing support, clear communication, and a treatment plan that adapts as your body and goals evolve.
Program Overview
in Detail
Consultation & Baseline Visit
Where your care begins.
Your journey begins with a one-on-one consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. We review your health history, goals, and eligibility, obtain baseline measurements, dispense medication when appropriate, and determine whether in-office or at-home injections are the best fit. Patients will also download Arboleaf for ongoing weight check-ins and monitoring.
Initiation & Titration
Helping your body adjust safely.
Treatment begins at a low dose with gradual increases to support tolerance. Monthly in-office measurements and check-ins help monitor progress and side effects. In-office weekly injections are available during this phase, along with education on nutrition, hydration, and protein intake.
Continuation
Supporting steady, sustainable progress.
Once an effective dose is reached, the focus shifts to consistency and progress. At-home injections are recommended, with continued Arboleaf monitoring, check-ins, and guidance around lifestyle habits that support long-term success.
Maintenance
Preserving results long term.
Maintenance focuses on sustaining progress and metabolic balance. Medication may be continued at a maintenance dose or gradually tapered when appropriate, with ongoing monitoring and support as needed.
Maintenance may include tapering, low-dose continuation, or microdosing. Adjustments are gradual, and medication should not be stopped abruptly. Ongoing lifestyle habits are essential, and your provider will help define a personalized maintenance plan.
GLP-1 Medication We Offer:
Semaglutide & Tirzepatide
As part of our medical weight loss program, we offer two evidence-based injectable medications that support metabolic health: compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide. Both are tools used to support appetite regulation, blood sugar balance, and sustainable weight loss when combined with nutrition, movement, and ongoing monitoring.
Semaglutide
Works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone (GLP-1) involved in appetite and blood sugar regulation.
Tirzepatide
Works on two metabolic pathways (GLP-1 and GIP), which play a role in appetite regulation and insulin response.
How They Work
Both medications:
- •Help regulate appetite and hunger signals
- •Increase feelings of fullness
- •Slow how quickly food leaves the stomach
- •Support blood sugar stability
What Patients Typically Notice
- •Feeling full sooner
- •Less frequent hunger
- •Reduced cravings or "food noise"
- •More control around portions
- •Gradual, steady weight loss over time
What is Compounded GLP-1 Medication?
Compounded GLP-1 medications offer a personalized approach to care. Prepared by FDA-registered compounding pharmacies, these formulations allow providers to tailor dosing and treatment plans to each patient's needs—without using prefilled brand-name pens or impacting medication availability for diabetic patients.
Will compounded medication work the same as brand-name medication?
Compounded medications contain the same active ingredient as their brand-name counterparts. Individual response can vary, which is why dosing and follow-up are important parts of care.
Why use compounded medication instead of brand-name?
Compounding allows for:
- •Personalized dosing and gradual titration
- •Flexible treatment plans based on tolerance and response
- •Improved access during national shortages
- •Avoiding the use of prefilled brand-name pens
This approach allows providers to tailor care rather than follow a one-size-fits-all model.
Your
Path Forward
Who May Be a Candidate
- •Difficulty losing weight despite lifestyle efforts
- •Increased hunger, cravings, or trouble feeling full
- •Overweight or weight-related metabolic concerns
- •Seeking a medically supervised approach
- •Able to commit to follow-ups and consistency
- •Understands results are gradual and individualized
Who May Not Be a Candidate
- •Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) or MEN2
- •Pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive
- •History of severe reaction to GLP-1 medications
- •History of pancreatitis or gallbladder disease
- •Diabetic retinopathy or recurrent hypoglycemia
- •Active or untreated mental health conditions that may be worsened by treatment
- •Diagnosis of diabetes requiring medical management
- •Unable to follow treatment or monitoring guidelines
- •Seeking rapid or cosmetic-only weight loss
Please Note: Eligibility is determined individually following a medical review. Treatment is not guaranteed and may be adjusted or discontinued if medically indicated.
Possible
Side Effects
Side effects vary by individual. Most are mild to moderate, occur early in treatment or with dose increases, and often improve as your body adjusts.
Common
Less Common / Rare but Reported
When to Contact Us
If side effects are persistent, worsening, or interfering with daily life, please reach out. Adjustments to dosing or supportive care may help.
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek urgent care for severe or ongoing abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, signs of dehydration, vision changes, or symptoms that feel severe or unusual.
This list includes all known and reported side effects. Not everyone will experience these, and many patients tolerate treatment well with gradual dose increases and proper support.
Healthy Habits
We encourage a gradual, realistic approach to habit building. Start by adding one supportive habit at a time, allowing it to feel consistent and sustainable before introducing another. The habits below are evidence-based and shown to support long-term weight loss and metabolic health. You don't need to implement every habit—choose the ones that feel achievable and align with your lifestyle.
Increase Water Intake
Improve Sleep Quality
Add Exercise or Movement
Eliminate Dairy
Eliminate Excess Sugar
Eliminate Alcohol
Meditation
Journaling
Limit Starches & Carbs
Tips to
Remember
- —Drink at least eight cups of water a day
- —Fuel your body, ensure recommended protein and calorie intake is met each day
- —Log your intake and activities
- —Contact your provider with any adverse effects or questions
Helpful
Resources
myfitnesspal.com
Track activity and food intake, with nutritional information for common foods and restaurants.
myfooddiary.com
Track activity and food intake, with nutritional information for common foods and restaurants.
FDA.gov
FDA information regarding the approval of Wegovy/Semaglutide for weight management.
calculator.net/protein-calculator
Website to calculate your recommended protein intake.
Nourishing
your body during
your GLP-1
Journey
Nutrition can feel overwhelming—especially in a world full of diets, rules, and conflicting advice. We want to be clear: there is no single "perfect" way of eating, and you do not need to follow a restrictive diet to be successful on GLP-1 therapy.
Our approach focuses on nourishment, sustainability, and supporting your body while your medication helps regulate appetite and metabolism. The goal is not to eliminate hunger entirely, but to help you reconnect with your body's natural signals so you can eat in a way that feels supportive, balanced, and realistic long term.
Fueling Your Body During Your GLP-1 Journey
Our Nutrition Philosophy
We encourage a flexible, whole-food-forward approach that prioritizes:
- •Protein to support muscle, metabolism, and satiety
- •Nutrient-dense foods that provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber
- •Regular meals and snacks to prevent under-fueling
- •Flexibility to support long-term success and enjoyment of food
This is not about perfection. It's about creating a way of eating that feels sustainable, supportive, and adaptable to your lifestyle.
Listening to Your Body
Because GLP-1 therapy changes how your body responds to food, you may find that certain foods feel less appealing or less comfortable than before. Foods that are highly processed, very high in sugar, or high in fat may be harder to tolerate for some patients and can contribute to symptoms such as nausea, bloating, or reflux—especially early in treatment.
Rather than labeling foods as "good" or "bad," we encourage you to pay attention to how foods make you feel and choose options that leave you feeling nourished and well.
A Note on Appetite & Food Noise
While many patients appreciate the reduction in food noise, our goal is not to suppress appetite to the point that you are skipping meals or struggling to eat enough. Adequate nutrition is essential for safe, effective, and sustainable weight loss.
If you find that you are consistently unable to eat, feeling weak or lightheaded, or avoiding food altogether, this is important to discuss with your care team so adjustments can be made.
Protein
Supporting Muscle, Metabolism & Strength During GLP-1 Therapy
Protein is a key nutrient to prioritize during GLP-1 therapy. As appetite decreases, adequate protein intake helps support lean muscle mass, metabolism, strength, and recovery while your body is changing.
Protein needs vary based on body composition, activity level, and individual tolerance. There is no single "perfect" amount—our goal is consistency and sustainability rather than perfection.
General Guidance
Aim for 3–4 protein servings per day, adjusting as needed.
- • Women: ~4–6 oz per serving
- • Men: ~6–8 oz per serving
Portion sizes may feel smaller early in treatment. Starting with smaller amounts and increasing gradually as tolerated is often more comfortable.
Protein Sources May Include
- • Canned tuna, salmon, or sardines
- • Chicken or turkey
- • Steak
- • Chicken sausage
- • Pork chops or pork tenderloin
- • Sliced deli meats
- • Ground meats (lean)
- • Fresh fish and seafood
- • Tempeh or tofu
- • Eggs or egg whites
- • Lentils, kidney beans, chickpeas
- • Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
- • Protein shakes or bars
Helpful Tip
When appetite is low, prioritizing protein first at meals can help ensure your body is adequately fueled.
Vegetables
Fiber, Micronutrients & Digestive Support During GLP-1 Therapy
Vegetables provide important vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber that support overall health, digestion, and blood sugar regulation during weight loss. Including vegetables regularly helps nourish your body while supporting long-term health.
During GLP-1 therapy, appetite and digestion may change. While vegetables are an important part of a balanced approach, large volumes—especially raw or very fibrous vegetables—may feel uncomfortable for some patients, particularly early in treatment.
General Guidance
Aim for vegetables at most meals, working toward approximately 2–4 cups total per day, adjusted based on appetite and tolerance.
- • A typical serving is about ½ cup cooked or 1 cup raw
- • Cooked or softer vegetables are often better tolerated than raw
Focus on quality and variety rather than large portions. Emphasize non-starchy vegetables, prepared in ways that feel best for your body.
Non-Starchy Vegetable Options
- • Leafy greens (spinach, kale, arugula)
- • Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts
- • Bell peppers
- • Zucchini or summer squash
- • Asparagus
- • Green beans
- • Mushrooms
- • Carrots
- • Tomatoes
- • Cucumber
- • Cabbage
- • Onions or scallions
- • Beets
Helpful Tip
If vegetables cause bloating or discomfort, try smaller portions, cooked options, or spreading intake throughout the day. Your care team can help tailor choices that work best for you.
Fruits
Natural Energy & Micronutrient Support During GLP-1 Therapy
Fruit provides important vitamins, minerals, fiber, and hydration that support energy, digestion, and overall health during weight loss. When included intentionally, fruit can be a nourishing part of a balanced approach to eating while on GLP-1 therapy.
Some patients worry that fruit may interfere with progress due to its natural sugar content. In reality, whole fruits contain fiber and nutrients that support metabolic health and can be well tolerated when eaten in appropriate portions.
General Guidance
Aim for 1–2 servings of fruit per day, adjusting based on appetite and tolerance.
- • One serving is one medium whole fruit or ~1 cup of fruit
- • Whole fruits are generally better tolerated than fruit juices
Pairing fruit with protein may help support satiety and blood sugar balance. Fruit does not need to be avoided—portion awareness and balance matter more than restriction.
Fruit Options May Include
- • Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- • Apples
- • Pears
- • Oranges or mandarins
- • Kiwi
- • Peaches or nectarines
- • Plums
- • Grapes
- • Pineapple
- • Mango
- • Melon (cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon)
Helpful Tip
If appetite is low, fruit can be a gentle way to add nutrients. Smooth textures (such as soft fruits or blended options) may be easier to tolerate than firmer fruits on some days.
If fruit causes discomfort, try smaller portions or pairing with protein or yogurt.
Carbohydrates
Energy, Balance & Sustainability During GLP-1 Therapy
Carbohydrates are often misunderstood and frequently eliminated in popular diet trends. While low-carbohydrate approaches may work short term for some, complete carbohydrate elimination is not practical, realistic, or sustainable for most people.
Carbohydrates play an important role in energy production, brain function, digestion, and overall metabolic health. When chosen intentionally, they can be a supportive part of nutrition during GLP-1 therapy.
General Guidance
Aim for 1–2 servings of carbohydrates per day, adjusted based on appetite, activity level, and tolerance.
- • Focus on fiber-rich, minimally processed carbohydrates
- • Pair carbohydrates with protein when possible to improve satiety and blood sugar response
Long-term success comes from balance, not elimination.
Fiber-Rich Carbohydrate Options
- • Oats
- • Quinoa
- • Brown or wild rice
- • Barley or farro
- • Chickpea or lentil pasta
- • Potatoes or sweet potatoes
- • Corn
- • Parsnips
- • Sourdough or whole-grain breads, tortillas, pastas or waffles
Helpful Tip
If appetite is low, carbohydrates may feel easier to tolerate later in the day or when paired with protein or healthy fats. Your care team can help individualize choices that work best for you.
If certain carbohydrates cause discomfort, try smaller portions or spreading intake throughout the day.
Healthy Fats
Satiety, Nutrient Absorption & Balance During GLP-1 Therapy
Healthy fats play an important role in supporting satiety, hormone function, nutrient absorption, and overall balance during weight loss. When included in appropriate portions, fats can help meals feel more satisfying and sustainable.
During GLP-1 therapy, digestion may be slower, and larger amounts of fat can sometimes contribute to nausea, bloating, or reflux. For this reason, portion awareness and gradual inclusion are important.
General Guidance
Aim for about 2 servings of healthy fats per day, adjusting based on appetite and tolerance.
- • Smaller portions are often better tolerated
- • Distributing fats across meals rather than consuming large amounts at once may help improve comfort
Healthy fats are supportive — more is not always better.
Healthy Fat Options May Include
- • Avocado (approximately ½ of a large avocado per serving)
- • Olive oil
- • Avocado oil
- • Coconut oil (in small amounts)
- • Nuts
- • Nut butters
- • Hard cheeses (such as Parmesan)
- • Pesto made with olive oil
Helpful Tip
Healthy fats can help meals feel more satisfying, but if appetite is low, it may be helpful to prioritize protein and fiber first, adding fats in smaller amounts as tolerated.
If fat-rich foods cause discomfort, try reducing portion size or pairing with protein and fiber.
Creating Balanced, Nourishing Meals
Simple Meal Formulas to Support Nourishment & Sustainability
At most meals, aim to include:
1. Protein (the foundation)
Protein supports muscle mass, metabolism, and satiety—especially important when appetite is reduced. Start with protein first and adjust portion size based on appetite and tolerance.
2. Non-Starchy Vegetables (as tolerated)
Vegetables provide fiber, micronutrients, and digestive support. Choose cooked or softer options if digestion feels sensitive. Focus on variety rather than volume.
3. Carbohydrates (optional but supportive)
Carbohydrates provide energy and help support long-term sustainability. Choose fiber-rich, minimally processed options. Pair with protein to improve tolerance and blood sugar response.
4. Healthy Fats (small amounts)
Fats support satiety and nutrient absorption. Use smaller portions. Spread intake throughout the day rather than consuming large amounts at once.
A Gentle Reminder
GLP-1 therapy is a tool to support metabolic health—not a replacement for food. Sustainable progress comes from fueling your body consistently, listening to your cues, and choosing balance over restriction.
If eating feels consistently difficult or uncomfortable, reach out to your care team so your plan can be adjusted to better support you.
When Appetite Is Low
It's common for hunger cues to feel quieter on GLP-1 therapy. On low-appetite days:
- • Prioritize protein first
- • Use smaller portions and eat more frequently if helpful
- • Choose softer or blended foods if solids feel difficult
- • Avoid skipping meals entirely when possible
Consistency matters more than perfection. Small, balanced meals add up.
Suggested Meal Formulas
GLP-1-Friendly Meals for Different Times of Day
GLP-1 therapy often changes hunger patterns throughout the day. These meal formulas are meant to guide balance—not dictate exact foods or portions. Use them as flexible templates and adjust based on appetite and tolerance.
Breakfast
Protein + Fiber + Optional Healthy Fat
Examples:
- • Eggs + vegetables + avocado
- • Greek yogurt + fruit + nut butter
- • Protein shake + berries
- • Cottage cheese + fruit
- • Tofu scramble + vegetables
If mornings are difficult, smaller portions or liquid options are completely appropriate.
Lunch
Protein + Vegetables + Optional Carbohydrate
Examples:
- • Grilled chicken + roasted vegetables + quinoa
- • Salmon + sautéed greens + sweet potato
- • Turkey or tofu bowl + vegetables + rice
- • Tuna salad + mixed vegetables + whole-grain crackers
Aim for balance rather than volume.
Snack
Protein + (Fruit OR Healthy Fat)
Examples:
- • Greek yogurt + berries
- • Apple + nut butter
- • Protein shake
- • Cottage cheese + fruit
- • Cheese + a small handful of nuts
Snacks may be especially helpful on low-appetite days.
Dinner
Protein + Vegetables + Small Amount of Fat or Carbohydrate
Examples:
- • Fish + roasted vegetables + olive oil
- • Lean meat + sautéed vegetables + rice
- • Tofu + stir-fried vegetables + noodles
- • Chicken + vegetables + pesto
Smaller portions are often better tolerated at dinner.
FAQ
Weight loss varies from person to person. Most patients experience gradual, steady weight loss over time, especially as dosing is slowly increased. The goal is safe, sustainable progress rather than rapid weight loss.
At this time, insurance does not cover program costs or the costs of compounded semaglutide. Please check with your insurance carrier for specific questions.
GLP-1 medications, including semaglutide and tirzepatide, are FDA-approved for weight management and have been extensively studied. Like all medications, they carry potential risks, but they are generally safe when prescribed to appropriate patients and monitored by a qualified healthcare provider. Please review your informed consent and discuss any questions or concerns with your provider.
No. We prescribe compounded GLP-1 medications, including semaglutide and tirzepatide, which are prepared by specialized pharmacies due to shortages of brand-name products. Current shortages primarily affect brand-name, prefilled injectable pens.
Treatment length varies by individual goals and response. Some patients use GLP-1 therapy during an active weight loss phase, then transition to a lower maintenance or microdosing approach, while others may benefit from longer-term use. Your provider will help tailor a plan that supports both progress and long-term sustainability.
Some patients may experience increased appetite or weight regain after stopping GLP-1 therapy, especially if it is stopped abruptly. A guided taper and ongoing lifestyle support can help promote more sustainable long-term results.
If you're unable to continue or move to the next phase, please let us know as soon as possible. We can help create a safe tapering plan and discuss strategies to support long-term results. We do not recommend stopping GLP-1 therapy abruptly without provider guidance.
Program cost varies based on the medication and dosage prescribed. Medications are typically dispensed as a one-month supply, with the option to dispense longer supplies once dosing is stabilized.
The program cost includes your monthly medication, in-office administration if needed during the initial phase, necessary supplies for at-home injections once transitioned, and ongoing support with individualized plans and goals from our care team.
A Note from
your Care Team
GLP-1 therapy is a tool — not a replacement for nourishment.
Your body still needs protein, fiber, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to function optimally. Progress comes from balance, consistency, and listening to your body's cues.
Use this guide as a supportive reference, not a set of rules. Adjust as needed, and reach out if eating feels difficult or uncomfortable.
We're here to support you every step of the way.
971-428-7254
asteraesthetic.com
info@asteraesthetic.com
We proudly serve clients in Salem, Keizer, and across Marion County, as well as surrounding areas. Many of our guests travel from throughout the Willamette Valley for our medical spa treatments, including Botox, dermal fillers, microneedling with PRF, BioRePeel, and Cosmelan peels. Whether you’re local or visiting from nearby communities, you’ll receive the same exceptional, personalized care Aster Aesthetics is known for.
