If you've been struggling with your weight, you're not alone, and you're not failing. I'm Dr. Tara Tarantino, a board-certified family medicine and osteopathic physician (DO) in Walnut Creek, and helping patients with weight management is one of my favorite parts of medicine. Here's how I approach it, what's included for my Direct Primary Care members and non-members.
Weight Isn't About Willpower
One of the biggest myths about weight is that it all comes down to willpower. It doesn't. Nutrition, sleep, stress, hormones, metabolism, medications, genetics, and daily habits all play a role. When only one of these gets addressed, results rarely last.
My goal isn't just a lower number on the scale. It's better metabolic health, preserved muscle, and habits you can keep for the long term.
What Your Plan Can Include
Every plan is built around you. Depending on your goals, it may include:
Nutrition guidance that fits your real life
Exercise guidance, with a focus on building and keeping muscle
Sleep and stress support, since both affect appetite and weight
Body composition tracking with our InBody 580 scanner, so we can see changes in fat and muscle, not just total weight
Lab work to look for contributors such as thyroid problems, insulin resistance, or hormonal changes like perimenopause
Evidence-based supplements, when they make sense for you
Prescription medications, including GLP-1–based medications such as Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide), when medically appropriate
Regular check-ins and accountability with me
Meal Replacements Through the HMR Program
I partner with the HMR Program for nutritionally complete shakes, bars, and ready-to-heat meals. They're especially helpful when time is tight and cooking every meal isn't realistic. Patients can order them at a discount through my online store here!
What's Included and What Costs Extra
Included for Direct Primary Care members: office visits, nutrition and exercise guidance, check-ins, and InBody scans.
Separate costs: lab work, supplements, HMR products, and prescription medications, since these come from outside the practice. I'll always tell you the cost before we order anything.
Not a member? You can still work with me on weight management. Schedule a free meet & greet and I'll walk you through your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to take a GLP-1 medication?
No. Medication is one tool among many. Some patients reach their goals with lifestyle changes alone, while others benefit from combining lifestyle changes with medication. We'll decide together what fits your health and goals.
Why track body composition instead of just weight?
Weight loss can include some muscle loss, and muscle matters for strength, function, and metabolic health. An InBody 580 scan helps us see whether you're losing fat while keeping muscle, so we can adjust your nutrition and exercise plan.
Is nutrition guidance extra for members?
No. It's included in your membership.
Ready to get started?
Click here to schedule a visit!
This article is for general information and isn't a substitute for personalized medical advice.
Curious about Direct Primary Care?
If you’ve been thinking about joining the practice, or want to learn more about how DPC works, I’m always happy to connect.