Beyond the Scale: Fighting Hidden Fat with Hormones and DEXA Scanning

In today’s world of wellness, terms like “metabolic health” and “visceral fat” are gaining more attention—and for good reason. While many focus on the number on the scale, a growing body of evidence shows that where fat is stored is just as important as how much we carry. Visceral fat—the deep abdominal fat that surrounds internal organs—is particularly concerning. It’s closely linked to insulin resistance, inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and an increased risk for chronic conditions like diabetes and dementia.

At D&G Optimized Wellness and Hormones, we believe in addressing the root causes of poor metabolic health. This includes evaluating hormone imbalances, offering personalized treatment plans, and soon, introducing advanced diagnostic tools like the Hologic DEXA scan—a powerful way to identify visceral fat and track progress.

Understanding Metabolic Health

Metabolic health is defined by how efficiently the body manages energy, glucose, and fat. It’s influenced by blood sugar levels, lipid profiles, blood pressure, waist circumference, and insulin sensitivity. Alarmingly, recent data suggests that less than 15% of Americans are considered metabolically healthy.

A key contributor to poor metabolic health is excess visceral fat. Unlike the fat that sits just under the skin, visceral fat surrounds the organs and secretes inflammatory substances that increase the risk of metabolic dysfunction. Even people with a “normal” BMI can harbor high levels of visceral fat, making it a hidden but dangerous threat.

The Hormone Connection

Hormones play a central role in where and how fat is stored. As we age, declining levels of estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, and thyroid hormone lead to reduced muscle mass, increased fat storage, and worsening insulin resistance.

In women, estrogen decline during menopause is directly linked to increased visceral fat.
In men, lower testosterone levels contribute to abdominal weight gain and a slower metabolism.
Thyroid hormone supports metabolism and digestion; even “normal” low levels can hinder fat loss and energy.

Left unchecked, these imbalances make losing weight and improving metabolic health nearly impossible—especially around the midsection.

BHRT: A Targeted Solution

Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is a core component of our approach to restoring balance and optimizing metabolism. Unlike synthetic hormones, BHRT matches the molecular structure of your body’s own hormones, making them safer and more effective.

– Estrogen improves lipid panels, reduces insulin resistance, and helps prevent the accumulation of visceral fat.
– Testosterone enhances lean muscle, boosts metabolism, and supports fat loss
– Progesterone promotes better sleep and counteracts cortisol, which drives belly fat.
– Thyroid hormone helps regulate energy, temperature, and metabolism—critical for fat burning and glucose control.

Our BHRT plans are customized and focused on how patients feel—not just lab numbers—helping our clients regain energy, body confidence, and metabolic control.

Precision Tracking Coming Soon:
DEXA Scanning Arrives in Lakeland

In the coming months, we’ll be introducing a Hologic DEXA scanner to our primary Lakeland location—adding a powerful new dimension to our patient care. This state-of-the-art technology measures total body composition, including fat mass, lean muscle, and most importantly, visceral fat.

Unlike traditional methods like BMI or bathroom scales, a DEXA scan gives a detailed and accurate picture of what’s happening beneath the surface. It allows us to quantify your progress, tailor your plan, and make data-driven decisions that accelerate results.
This new offering will be available not only to our current clients, but also to the greater Lakeland community—providing an essential tool for anyone serious about improving their metabolic health and preventing chronic disease.

A Holistic Plan for Lasting Change

We know that transformation doesn’t come from a single solution—it requires a comprehensive strategy:
Nutrition: We encourage an anti-inflammatory, whole-food-based diet that supports hormone balance and insulin sensitivity.
Movement: Resistance training, walking, and increasing daily activity are essential for muscle retention and metabolic health.
Hormone Optimization: By restoring hormones to optimal levels, we unlock the body’s ability to burn fat, build strength, and feel energized.

Objective Tracking: With the addition of DEXA scans and ongoing lab monitoring, we bring clarity and accountability to every patient journey.

Polk County and Frankly Everyone Deserves Better

Visceral fat may be silent, but its effects are not. At D&G, we’re building a system of care that prioritizes prevention, education, and empowerment. The upcoming addition of DEXA scanning reflects our mission: to offer cutting-edge, personalized medicine that works—because you deserve to feel better, live better, and age on your own terms.

Optimized Wellness and Hormones

863-899-2404
info@optimizedwellness.net
optimizedwellness.net