Unless you've been living under a rock, you know that modern Americans are much fatter than they were just a few decades ago. Take one look around a shopping center or strip mall and it seems that half the people present are struggling with obesity. Recent data from the CDC supports those observations - more than 39% of adults in the United States were considered obese from 2015-2016. That number is up from 33.7 percent in 2007-2008.
Perhaps more alarming is the fact that severe obesity is on the rise as well. The same report from the CDC tells us that nearly 8% of Americans were severely obese from 2015-2016, which is up from 5.7% in 2007-2008. When you read between the lines, those statistics mean that almost 4 in 10 adults are obese in the U.S., and almost 1 in 13 are severely obese.
Unfortunately, "fixing" obesity isn't something that can be done overnight. There is no quick fix that is also safe and non-surgical. The obesity problem in the U.S. is only getting worse as more adults and children choose the ease and convenience of fast food sugar-packed products over healthy eating, exercise, and positive lifestyle choices.
Besides the challenges of being overweight, like clothes that don't fit and hurtful comments, the health risks are much more serious. Obesity can endanger your life, and those who rely on you may lose you earlier than expected. Over time, the likelihood of developing severe and life-altering health problems grows.
The good news is that a new medication called semaglutide in Beaufort, SC, is available for people struggling with obesity. This game-changing treatment approaches obesity as a chronic metabolic disease rather than a problem that can be solved through willpower alone.
At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, we now ioffer semaglutide as part of our custom weight loss program. If you've been struggling with obesity and have tried other diets with little to no success, don't lose hope. With the help of our medical and nutritional providers, you can lose weight, keep it off, and take meaningful steps toward better health.
Our weight loss program with semaglutide starts with a comprehensive consultation and evaluation process. During this phase, we will determine the ideal semaglutide dosage for you and provide personalized nutrition and exercise guidelines. Once we have a better understanding of your body and your weight loss goals, you'll begin receiving regular injections of semaglutide in Beaufort, SC.
It's your responsibility to incorporate lifestyle changes, specifically in your diet and exercise, to reach your weight loss goals. However, we'll be there every step of the way and conduct regular check-ins to help you stay on course. We'll also closely monitor your progress and overall health to ensure that your weight loss is safe and sustainable. The purpose of our semaglutide weight loss program is to offer a comprehensive weight loss treatment that helps you achieve natural, long-lasting results. That's the VIP Cosmetic Surgery difference.
Patients who sign up for our semaglutide weight loss program benefit from the following:
For semaglutide to have the biggest impact on your weight, you've got to make changes to your diet. When you eat nutrient-dense, whole foods that support weight loss and healthy living, you're setting yourself up for long-term weight loss. Our nutrition plans are comprehensive and customized to your needs and lifestyle. That way, when you're ready to make real changes in your life, we'll be there with a nutrition plan you can follow to make the journey easier and more sustainable.
One of the biggest reasons why people fail to achieve their weight loss goals is because they try to do it all on their own. When you sign up for VIP Cosmetic Surgery's semaglutide program, you benefit from monthly check-ins with Dr. Farr to see how your progress is going. During this meeting, you can talk to the doctor about your progress and what hurdles you're still trying to overcome. The doctor will give you advice and guidance based on his experience and - perhaps most importantly - help keep you on track so that you can lose weight and keep it off for good.
Our practitioners will provide tests to ensure that your body is healthy, hydrated, and well-fed. By checking your hydration and nutrition levels, we can help ensure you're losing weight in a healthy manner and not starving yourself. By maintaining optimal health throughout your weight loss journey, you're giving yourself the best shot at long-term weight loss.
For individuals working to lose weight and stay healthy, sticking to a consistent diet and exercise routine can be tough. Between work obligations and important tasks like picking your kids up from school, there just doesn't seem to be enough time in the day to eat healthy foods. After all, McDonald's is on the way home, and your little ones are screaming for food.
Fortunately, many busy people find semaglutide to be a valuable tool in their weight loss journey. This FDA-approved injection, used for treating both diabetes and obesity, functions by activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain to aid in weight loss and promote long-term health.
In more simple terms, semaglutide imitates glucagon in the body, signaling to the brain that you're full and don't need to eat more. When you take semaglutide and try to overeat, your body sends a message that says, "That's enough." In essence, it makes you feel full, so you're less likely to binge eat, especially at night when food tends to sit in your stomach.
Semaglutide also slows down digestion, reducing unnecessary snacking throughout the day. By minimizing glucose spikes after meals, it lowers inflammation, which is a crucial step in optimizing your overall health. Moreover, Semaglutide assists in insulin secretion by the pancreas regulates glucose levels in the body and even possesses anti-aging and longevity properties. If you're struggling with weight loss, treatments such as semaglutide can make a substantial difference for you.
In summary, semaglutide helps you lose weight in a few different ways, including:
At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, one of the most frequently asked questions our providers receive from curious weight loss patients is whether or not semaglutide is supported by clinical trials. As it turns out, many trials have been conducted measuring the efficacy of semaglutide for weight loss, and the results are very promising.
Semaglutide is designed for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher who are attempting to shed at least 10% of their total body weight without success with other methods. Clinical trials involving over 1,900 obese adults who were unable to lose five percent of their body weight after a year of treatment with other medications demonstrated that semaglutide increased average weight loss from 2% to 20% over a treatment period of just over one year compared to a placebo.
In a different trial involving 1,387 patients with obesity (but not type 2 diabetes), participants were randomly assigned to different doses of semaglutide: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or placebo for 104 weeks. The group that took the higher dose of semaglutide lost an average of 31 pounds, while those on the lower dose lost an average of 11 pounds.
According to the NCBI, the Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People With Obesity (STEP) trials have shown the efficacy of semaglutide, as well. In large randomized controlled trials, patients who received 2.4 milligrams of semaglutide lost a mean of 6% of their weight after 12 weeks and 12% of their weight after 28 weeks.
So, what do all these statistics mean for you? If you're looking to shed some pounds, it's worth giving semaglutide injections a shot. This type of treatment isn't a miracle drug, but it can significantly boost your chances of weight loss success. That's why, at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, we have incorporated semaglutide as a fresh treatment option for individuals grappling with obesity, especially those who have exhausted other remedies and are seeking something new.
As is the case with promising therapies like semaglutide, people considering the drug have a lot of questions about whether it's right for them. Keep reading to get answers to some of the most common questions relating to semaglutide.
If you're an adult dealing with obesity, excessive weight, or weight-related medical conditions such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure, semaglutide injections could be a suitable option for you. To qualify for semaglutide weight loss services at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, you must meet the BMI range criteria established by the FDA. If you're unsure whether semaglutide injections are the right choice for you, we recommend scheduling a consultation with one of our weight loss practitioners today.
Our doctors and practitioners often hear from patients asking whether semaglutide is safe for long-term use. It's natural to have concerns about a medication that impacts your body. Simply put, as long as you meet the criteria, it is safe to take this weight-loss medication. Even patients with endocrine, kidney, heart, and liver conditions can safely use semaglutide. As of June 4, 2021, the Food & Drug Administration has given the green light for semaglutide injections (2.4mg once weekly) for chronic weight management in adults with obesity and at least one weight-related condition.
Weight loss medications such as semaglutide may cause people to regain weight once the treatment is stopped. According to a clinical trial featured in Practice Update, participants regained 11.6% of their lost body weight within a year of discontinuing semaglutide medication and lifestyle intervention. Researchers suggest that this weight gain could be linked to the reversal of the cardiovascular benefits associated with semaglutide treatment, including stable blood sugar levels and blood pressure.
This data underscores the importance of continued medication and ongoing treatment for obesity as a chronic health condition to effectively manage its impact on quality of life and heart health. The key takeaway here is that due to its nature as a weight loss treatment, it's best to take regularly over time for the best results.
That length of time will vary depending on factors such as:
There's no question about it - semaglutide is making waves in the medical community. Thousands of obese men and women in the U.S. are using the treatment to get a handle on their weight and live healthy lives. With its ability to reduce blood sugar levels and facilitate weight loss, it makes sense that patients are looking for ways to get the most out of their regimen.
Keep reading to learn a few of the best tips to maximize your journey with semaglutide.
Before you start taking semaglutide or make any changes to your treatment plan, make sure to discuss it with your healthcare provider who prescribes semaglutide. They will evaluate your specific needs, determine the right dosage for you, and give you important instructions on how to use the medication properly. At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, our weight loss practitioners work one-on-one with every patient who takes semaglutide to ensure they're staying healthy, hydrated, and committed to our semaglutide program.
Make sure to keep a close eye on your blood sugar levels as recommended by your semaglutide provider. While semaglutide can assist in reducing blood sugar levels, it's important to regularly monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. When you begin a weight loss program at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, you can rest easy knowing we check your blood sugar levels periodically.
Regular physical activity can boost the effects of semaglutide. It's best to aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise 3-4 times a week to support weight loss and overall health improvements.
It's important to understand that results may not happen right away and could take some time to become noticeable. Try to be patient as you follow your treatment plan, maintain consistency with lifestyle changes, and have confidence that positive results will come gradually.
To maximize the effectiveness of semaglutide, it's very beneficial to eat a well-rounded diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Always try to choose nutrient-rich options over high-calorie, high-fat foods. That way, you can achieve your weight loss objectives quicker. When you work with weight loss experts like the doctors at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, you'll have access to customized nutrition plans that will help expedite your weight loss and keep off the pounds once you reach your goals.
Make sure to set up regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to track your progress, make any necessary changes to your treatment plan, and talk about any concerns or questions you might have. At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, follow-ups and check-ins are built into our semaglutide program, giving you one less thing to worry about as you lose weight.
Are you striving to reach a healthy weight and live a more fulfilling life? Are you eager to have a positive impact on yourself and your loved ones? Take the first step toward better health by contacting VIP Cosmetic Surgery. Our experienced, compassionate practitioners will collaborate with you to identify your weight-loss goals. Once we know more about you and your body, we'll create a custom plan and provide the cutting-edge strategies and treatments you need to see real results. If you're ready to make a meaningful change, we're ready to guide you on the path to success.
South Carolina’s favorite seafood will soon be more widely available at docks and markets all along the Palmetto State’s coast. In a release by SCDNR, commercial shrimp season will open in all legal South Carolina waters at 8 a.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025.In an average year, shrimp season opens in full by late May, typically after the opening of eight smaller provisional areas in the state’s outer waters. This year, those provisional areas opened in April allowing shrimpers to begin harvesting some larger white shrimp...
South Carolina’s favorite seafood will soon be more widely available at docks and markets all along the Palmetto State’s coast. In a release by SCDNR, commercial shrimp season will open in all legal South Carolina waters at 8 a.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025.
In an average year, shrimp season opens in full by late May, typically after the opening of eight smaller provisional areas in the state’s outer waters. This year, those provisional areas opened in April allowing shrimpers to begin harvesting some larger white shrimp from farther offshore while still protecting most of the spawning population closer to shore.
South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) officials set the opening date for shrimp season each year based on the conditions of the shrimp themselves. Aboard both commercial and agency vessels, biologists sample and study white shrimp frequently in late spring. One of the things they’re looking for is evidence that a majority of female white shrimp have already spawned at least once.
Opening the season too soon – and allowing trawlers to catch females that have not had an opportunity to spawn – could reduce the size of the fall white shrimp crop, which are the offspring of the spring white shrimp.
South Carolina’s commercial shrimp calendar has historically had three peak periods.
In the spring, shrimpers typically capitalize on the influx of roe white shrimp, large, early-season shrimp that generally fetch higher prices and generate the most value for fishing effort.
The summer months are defined by a peak in brown shrimp, which are similar to white shrimp in size and taste.
In the fall and into winter, shrimpers bring in a second crop of white shrimp; the offspring of the spring roe shrimp.
Because white shrimp are a short-lived species that are sensitive to cold water temperatures and unusually wet or dry summers, their numbers can fluctuate dramatically from year to year. However, they’re also prolific spawners – which means that the populations can quickly rebound even after a poor year or season.
Hunting Island was just voted as one of the Top Ten Best Beaches in South Carolina in the popular USA Today Readers Poll.“Warm sand, blue water, and refreshing Atlantic Ocean breezes — these elements await visitors to the sandy shores and barrier islands of South Carolina,” USA Today said.“The Palmetto State’s coastline is dotted with picturesque beach towns, each with its own unique character, from family-friendly beaches to uncrowded stretches of sand.”An expert USA Today panel nomin...
Hunting Island was just voted as one of the Top Ten Best Beaches in South Carolina in the popular USA Today Readers Poll.
“Warm sand, blue water, and refreshing Atlantic Ocean breezes — these elements await visitors to the sandy shores and barrier islands of South Carolina,” USA Today said.
“The Palmetto State’s coastline is dotted with picturesque beach towns, each with its own unique character, from family-friendly beaches to uncrowded stretches of sand.”
An expert USA Today panel nominated their picks for the most beloved beaches in the Palmetto State, then readers voted to decide the winners.
Hunting Island came in at #6 in South Carolina.
“There are many reasons more than a million people clamor to Hunting Island State Park each year,” USA Today said.
“Start with pristine beaches, followed up by beach access camping, a fishing pier, nature trails, and South Carolina’s only lighthouse open to the public, which makes for gorgeous vacation photos to boot.”
Two other local beaches made the list as well. Edisto Beach came in just behind Hunting Island at #7, and Coligny Beach on Hilton Head came in at #9 on the list.
The Top Ten:
1. Pawley’s Island 2. North Myrtle Beach 3. Litchfield Beach 4. Huntingdon Beach State Park 5. Cherry Grove Beach 6. Hunting Island State Park 7. Edisto Beach State Park 8. Myrtle Beach State Park 9. Coligny Beach 10. Bloody Point Beach
We’re not slighting other beaches in South Carolina by saying that we know Hunting Island is actually #1. Because we feel it is.
Our beloved 5 mile beach at the end of Highway 21 has been getting lots of love lately. Recently, it was named one of the Best in the South AND, one of the Best Islands in South Carolina by Southern Living, Garden & Gun recently named it as an Island Where You’d Want to be Stranded, and one of 20 Southern Escapes, as well. If that’s not enough love, Beaufort was named one of the Top 10 Beach Towns in South Carolina by Travel + Leisure, because of, you guessed it….Hunting Island.
Beaufort locals have always been about supporting their local shrimpers and fishermen. But, lately, there has been a huge emphasis nationally on making sure folks are getting to enjoy local or wild-caught seafood instead of imported farm-raised seafood, to support American fisherman all over the U.S. And, you may have asked yourself how do you know which Beaufort area restaurants are serving American seafood?In fact, approximately 35-38% of the seafood consumed in the U.S. is produced domestically, with the remaining 62-65% imported. ...
Beaufort locals have always been about supporting their local shrimpers and fishermen. But, lately, there has been a huge emphasis nationally on making sure folks are getting to enjoy local or wild-caught seafood instead of imported farm-raised seafood, to support American fisherman all over the U.S. And, you may have asked yourself how do you know which Beaufort area restaurants are serving American seafood?
In fact, approximately 35-38% of the seafood consumed in the U.S. is produced domestically, with the remaining 62-65% imported. This means that most of the seafood eaten in America is not from American waters. Odds are, if you put ten random shrimp on a plate today, only one of them will be wild caught American shrimp.
In fact, Georgia has just come out with a truth in menus regulation, and the Georgia State House recently passed a bill that would require restaurants to identify the country of origin for seafood items. Recently, a company has tested 44 Savannah area restaurants to determine the authenticity of the shrimp on their menus.
Seeing this, and recognizing the importance of American wild-caught seafood, the Beaufort Area Hospitality Association will be launching the Only from Our Waters program & promotion in Beaufort this upcoming fall.
The initiative will highlight businesses that serve genuine, local or American-harvested seafood.
When the program is implemented, there will be a testing process that local area restaurants will undergo randomly. The restaurants that are found to be using local, or American wild-caught seafood will be identified.
The restaurants that do not use it, will not be identified.
Patrons will be able to know by keeping an eye out for the exclusive logo on menus, storefronts, and promotional materials as a symbol of our area’s pride in its outstanding seafood offerings.
“Across the coastal regions, a spotlight is being placed on the seafood served in restaurants, questioning how truly local it is,” the Beaufort Area Hospitality Association said in a release.
“Here in Beaufort, we’re stepping up to showcase our dedication to the industry and the people behind it. Our restaurants proudly support local and American-caught shrimp, oysters, fish, and crabs, standing in solidarity with the hardworking fishermen who have been the backbone of our island communities for generations. Imported seafood has posed a significant challenge to these local industries, and we’re committed to preserving and celebrating their legacy.”
“Whether you’re savoring a shrimp dish or indulging in fresh oysters, you’re not just enjoying a meal. You’re supporting a rich tradition that defines Beaufort, Port Royal & the Sea Islands and keeps our coastal communities thriving,” the release added.
You may have seen our Facebook posts from when we have visited local grocery stores to see where their frozen shrimp comes from. (below)
We know for a fact that many of our area restaurants use local and wild-caught seafood. But, if you’re ever in doubt, there are several ways you can ask a restaurant where their seafood comes from. You can even ask for proof, as they often will still have the boxes in the back, or in their kitchen.
If they struggle to get you an answer, they’ve actually given you an answer, although they may not know they have.
This fall, you’ll have a much better idea when area restaurants are sporting the new Only From Our Waters logo, and you won’t have to ask.
ALSO READ: A history of shrimping in Beaufort, SC
It is said that, “Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get,” and that especially rings true today as word is out that the iconic Chocolate Tree in downtown Beaufort will close its doors permanently at the end of this month.Opened in 1980 originally as a hobby by Pat Green, the local confectionery has been a staple in town for the past 45 years, has enjoyed nationwide status, and has been known for some of the finest chocolates in the South.Owners of the store were not available...
It is said that, “Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get,” and that especially rings true today as word is out that the iconic Chocolate Tree in downtown Beaufort will close its doors permanently at the end of this month.
Opened in 1980 originally as a hobby by Pat Green, the local confectionery has been a staple in town for the past 45 years, has enjoyed nationwide status, and has been known for some of the finest chocolates in the South.
Owners of the store were not available for comment, but we visited the store on Saturday and were told by employees that the last day of business will be Friday, May 30th. Everything in the store is currently selling at 50% off.
Several generations of locals and tens of thousands of tourists have made their way through the doors of the business over the past 45 years, and it’s where Paramount Pictures got the iconic box of chocolates for the movie Forrest Gump.
You would always be able to walk in and see their craft. Over 60 different selections were laid out on their shelves from milk and dark chocolate goodies, to seasonal treats, classic gift varieties, peanut brittle, homemade fudge and so much more.
The store also held a popular all-you-can-eat-chocolate night for several decades, another idea of Pat Green, where you could purchase a ticket and just enjoy everything they had to offer until your belly said “that is enough.”
We never like to see a small, local business close, but this one as synonymous with Beaufort, SC as it has been for decades, is a particular hard pill to swallow.
We can’t believe the Chocolate Tree will close its doors in less than a week.
Be sure to get to the store, located at 507 Carteret Street in downtown before they close. You can purchase whatever they have left in stock, take a few photos for your fond memories, and you can also let that sweet smell hit you one last time as you enter the door.
The Chocolate Tree will be sorely missed in our Beaufort community. For many, many different reasons.
Editor’s note: Rumors are going around that, even though employees told us they are closing permanently, the store will be closing for a month or so, and the original owner will be reopening it with one of her sons, but neither of them have said that themselves. Until they do, they are just rumors. And, if they are, we will report accordingly.
Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park invites the public to join in a powerful, family-friendly Juneteenth Celebration from June 12–19, 2025, featuring the headlining performance by R&B sensation Leela James on Saturday, June 14, 2025. This week-long series of events blends history, culture, music, and community in a joyful celebration of our shared history, hosted on the very grounds of the first self-governed town established by formerly enslaved people in the United States. Programming inc...
| Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park invites the public to join in a powerful, family-friendly Juneteenth Celebration from June 12–19, 2025, featuring the headlining performance by R&B sensation Leela James on Saturday, June 14, 2025. This week-long series of events blends history, culture, music, and community in a joyful celebration of our shared history, hosted on the very grounds of the first self-governed town established by formerly enslaved people in the United States. Programming includes a full slate of events, such as interactive children’s activities, African drumming, nature exhibits, a cultural sleepover experience, and an all day celebration on Saturday. “Events like this bring our community—both near and far—together in powerful ways,” said Ahmad Ward, Executive Director of Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park. “They offer an opportunity to reflect on our shared history and celebrate the progress we’ve made. I look forward to joining everyone for the old-school dance contest—it’s a highlight of the weekend!” The Saturday, June 14 festival in the park (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | $10 admission) will feature: Headlining Artist, Leela James is known for her powerhouse vocals and chart-topping hits like “Fall For You” and “Complicated”, will bring her undeniable presence under the oaks in Mitchelville. “We are thrilled to welcome the incredible Leela James to our stage,” says Joyce Wright, Program Director. “Her soulful voice and dynamic performance will be the pinnacle of our weeklong Juneteenth celebration.” FULL EVENT LINE UP: Thursday, June 12 Naych and B’uhds: A Celebration of Nature and Birds11:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Free with Registration Hosted by Hilton Head Audubon, this event connects the beauty of nature with the rich history of Mitchelville. Wander under the oaks and alongside the marsh while local conservation groups share their work. Sleep Under the Stars: The Juneteenth Sleepover Experience6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Optional overnight stay until 6:00 AM) $20 per person | $10 tent rental available A soul-stirring overnight experience, this event invites you to connect deeply with the land and legacy of Mitchelville. Friday, June 13 Children’s Day: Dig Into History11:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Free with RSVP On Friday morning, children are invited to step into the shoes of junior archaeologists during Children’s Day at Mitchelville. Feel the Beat: The 2025 Juneteenth Drum Circle5:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Free with RSVP Let the rhythm guide your spirit at this energetic, hands-on community celebration. Master drummers lead an unforgettable evening filled with movement, music, and meaning. Saturday, June 14 The Main Event: 11th Annual Juneteenth Celebration10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | $10 Admission Wednesday, June 19 Juneteenth 5k with Palmetto Running Company8:00 – 10:00 AM | Register Online Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park| 40 Harriet Tubman Way, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 TICKETS & INFO: |
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