Frequently Asked Questions

Metabolic Research Center is a structured weight management program that addresses the root causes of weight gain — not just the symptoms. Unlike fad diets or generic gym programs, MRC combines individualized nutrition, metabolic testing, proven supplements, and access to licensed medical practitioners for those who may qualify for prescription weight loss medications. We've helped hundreds of thousands of people lose weight and keep it off since 1983. Our approach is data-driven, personalized, and guided by trained weight loss professionals and an independent medical board that oversees the clinical integrity of our program.

Our metabolic assessment measures how efficiently your body burns calories at rest — your Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR). This tells us exactly how many calories your body needs to function, so we can build a weight loss plan that works with your unique metabolism rather than against it. Most people are surprised to find their metabolism is different from what standard charts suggest. This assessment is the foundation of your personalized program and one of the most important tools we use to generate real, lasting results.

Yes. MRC uses Tanita body composition analysis technology to measure your body fat percentage, lean muscle mass, water weight, and other key metrics. This gives us a far more complete picture of your health than a standard scale or BMI calculation alone. Your Tanita results are used to set personalized targets and track meaningful progress throughout your program.

Yes. The MRC program is built on a medically reviewed foundation. An independent medical board — comprising a licensed physician serving in an advisory capacity — oversees the clinical and medical aspects of our program, including medical eligibility guidelines and program protocols. At select locations, independent licensed medical practitioners are available to perform health screenings and, where appropriate, prescribe weight loss medications. These practitioners operate independently; they are not employed by Metabolic Research Center.

MRC works with clients managing obesity, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, PCOS, hypothyroidism, and other conditions where weight management plays a meaningful role. Our program is built on a medically-reviewed framework. While MRC is not a medical clinic and does not diagnose or treat disease, we collaborate well alongside your primary care provider and can provide program documentation for your healthcare team.

Yes. Many MRC clients come to us specifically because standard diets haven't worked — often due to thyroid dysfunction, hormonal shifts (menopause, andropause), or other metabolic disruptions. We factor these conditions into your program design. At locations where independently contracted licensed medical practitioners are available, clinical considerations related to these conditions can be addressed as part of a health screening.

For many clients, structured medical weight loss has produced significant, sustained results — including losses of 50, 75, and 100+ pounds — without surgery. MRC's program combines personalized nutrition, metabolic testing, behavioral support, and where available, access to independently contracted licensed medical practitioners who may prescribe FDAapproved weight loss medications. If you're exploring bariatric surgery, a supervised weight loss program is often recommended as a first step. We'd encourage you to explore what's possible before making an irreversible decision.

Yes. At locations where independently contracted licensed medical practitioners are available, clients with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes can be evaluated for prescription weight loss medications as appropriate. The prescribing decision is made entirely by the independent licensed practitioner, who will consider your full health history. We encourage coordination with your primary care or endocrinology team throughout the process.

Program costs vary based on your personalized plan, the services included, and your specific goals. MRC offers a range of program options designed to fit different budgets. The best way to get accurate pricing is to schedule a free consultation at your nearest center — there's no obligation, and you'll leave with a clear picture of what your program would look like and what it costs. Many clients find the investment far less than they expected, especially when compared to the long-term health costs of unmanaged weight.

MRC program fees are generally not covered by insurance, but may be eligible for FSA/HSA reimbursement — check with your plan administrator. Prescription weight loss medications, when prescribed by an independently contracted licensed medical practitioner, may have separate insurance coverage depending on your plan and the specific medication. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to verify coverage. Our counselors can help clarify what questions to ask.

Yes. MRC offers a complimentary initial consultation at our locations. During this visit, you'll meet with a weight loss counselor, discuss your health history and goals, learn about program options, and get a clear picture of what success can look like for you. There is no obligation to enroll. This is your opportunity to ask every question you have and determine whether MRC is the right fit for you.

MRC has centers across the United States. You can find your nearest location by visiting emetabolic.com and using the location finder, or by searching 'Metabolic Research Center near me' on Google Maps. We serve communities in Colorado, Tennessee, Florida, Arkansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Texas, Indiana, Georgia, Oregon, Washington, Alabama, Wyoming, and many more states — with new locations opening regularly.

You can schedule a complimentary consultation by calling your local MRC center directly, submitting a request through emetabolic.com, or walking into your nearest location. Most centers offer flexible appointment times including early mornings and select evenings. Use the location finder on our website or search 'Metabolic Research Center [your city]' to find contact information for the center nearest you.

Hours vary by location. Most MRC centers are open Monday through Friday, with some locations offering Saturday hours. We recommend calling your local center or visiting our website to confirm current hours, as schedules can vary. You can also check hours directly on your center's Google Business Profile.

At select locations, independently contracted licensed medical practitioners may offer virtual consultations or telehealth services for certain clinical needs. Availability varies by location and is governed by state licensing regulations. Contact your nearest center to ask about telehealth options if in-person visits present a challenge.

MRC has locations across dozens of states throughout the United States, including Colorado, Tennessee, Florida, Arkansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Texas, Indiana, Georgia, Oregon, Washington, Alabama, Wyoming, and more. We continue to grow. Visit emetabolic.com for the most current and complete location directory.

Our approach to weight loss does not center around the idea that "restricting caloric intake" is the most effective way to lose weight. Instead, our menus focus on intaking healthy and balanced amounts of macronutrients in healthy portions. The vast majority of our menus avoid calorie counting altogether. We purposely designed our programs this way so that they are easy to follow (and are free from crazy and time consuming math). Your menus feature over 100 foods to choose from with guidance on exact portion size. Choose the foods you enjoy, measure them out, and enjoy - it's as simple as that!

Absolutely! For those who are not local to an MRC offcie, our MRC at Home program is the perfect option for you. You'll be connected with a Weight Loss Coach from one of our Centers, ensuring your get the same great support, menus, and tools that you would in a location. You and your Coach will meet weekly over the phone, by Video Chat or by Email. This ongoing support means you'll get all the coaching and education you need to lose weight quickly, with the motivation and encouragement to committed and fired up! Contact us here to learn more. 

If you are near a center but can't come in regularly, we offer a variety of flexible options for connecting with your Weight Loss Coaches while following program, including in-person, virtual through Zoom, phone call, email, text message, and more. You can complete your program in the way that's most convenient for you.

No expensive gym memberships required here! Excercise can be a great accompaniment to weight loss and healthy stress management. Our programs do not require an exercise regiment, but we are always happy to discuss with our clients more fun, easy ways to incorporate exercise and movement into their lifestyles. Everybody is different, and we encourage you to move at the pace that's right for you.

Your consultation will take about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your needs. Click here to book your free consultation.

Many of our clients have very hectic lives. Our clients who work long hours or travel extensively have participated in program and achieved success. Our programs and menus can be tailored to fit even the busiest of lifestyles.

We know that when a program fits into your lifestyle, you will be successful. We'll discuss your weight loss goals, eating habits, medical profile, and lifestyle. This information allows us to recommend a program that's been tailored to fit you and your goals.

Metabolic Research Center's vitamin and supplement formulations were created after extensive research on ingredients, benefits, and amounts. Some companies use only trace amounts of key ingredients, effectively reducing the benefits experienced. MRC products are produced in cGMP facilities and are tested regularly for purity and potency. You can trust with MRC that you're getting everything on the label. Quality matters to MRC. Your health matters to MRC.

Yes, you can! Many of our clients come to us with a previous history of weight loss (with another program, following surgical procedures, or after unsuccessful DIY attempts). The MRC approach to weight loss aims to mimic and match real life. While following your MRC program, you'll be eating real foods that you buy at your local grocery store or eat out from restaurants. And you'll have the support of a team of professionaly trained Coaches - many of whom personally know the ins, outs, ups, and downs of weight management. At MRC, we're focused on your whole success and helping you to develop sustainable healthy habits.

Yes, we offer menus that will work for almost everyone: from individuals with certain medical restrictions and food allergies to picky eaters and road warriors always on-the-go. We have specialized menus for vegetarians, nursing moms, and those following a gluten-free lifestyle. We'll work with your dietary preferences and needs.

Yes, we can! We offer hormone imbalance testing to help uncover hidden imbalances that may be sabotaging your best efforts. A balanced body is a healthier and happier body, and we can help you achieve it.
Learn More Here

Yes. In your free consultation we will review your medical history and this will guide us to finding the best program for you. We offer a wide variety of menus, giving us the ability to work with the majority of individuals on their weight management goals. Click here to learn more.

Yes! Our non-invasive saliva hormone testing kit can help to detect hidden hormonal imbalances. Our menus feature whole foods that nourish a healthy body and are free from heavily processed and sugar-laden foods. Learn more here:

https://www.emetabolic.com/blog/hormones-dna/hormone_imbalance_the_missing_link_to_weight_loss/

Yes, our medications are prepared by licensed compounding pharmacists who follow strict quality standards and guidelines. 

Your health and safety is our highest priority here at Metabolic Research Center. A licensed medical professional will conduct a health screening to determine your eligibility for participation in medical weight loss programs.

No, you do not need to be referred by your doctor in order to be considered for our medical weight loss programs. We offer free consultations to all individuals interested in learning more about our medical weight loss programs.

In most cases, lab work is not required. Should our physician need to see your labs, they will let you know on an individual, case-by-case basis. If labs are needed, then you are welcome to provide your own from your primary healthcare provider, provided they are in date and include any required panels.

Yes, we offer both traditional (non medical) and medical weight loss programs. All of our programs include simple and structured menus and one on one coaching with a team of weight loss professionals. We offer free consultations to all individuals interested in learning more about our weight loss programs (medical and non-medical).

Centers that offer medical weight loss programs offer compounded medications including incretin mimetic medications, vitamin B12 injections, peptides, and more.

Prescriptions for medical weight loss will either be mailed directly to your house or picked up at your local center. In most cases prescriptions arrive within 1-2 weeks.

Medical program availability and costs vary by location and strength. Medical programs typically start at $279. This price is inclusive of one month of medication, your menu(s), and all of your coaching sessions, classes, and regular progress measurement.

You will receive a health screening prior to starting your prescription. Your prescription comes from a licensed pharmacist, and you’ll meet regularly with your team of MRC Coaches to monitor your progress throughout the duration of your program. 

All medical weight loss programs include your prescription, a simple and structured menu plan, and one-on-one coaching.

We offer several different medical weight loss options and support including weight loss injections, Vitamin B12 injections, other peptide medications, and more. Availability and pricing of medical weight loss varies from location to location.

Our medications are prepared in licensed compounding pharmacies.

MRC offers a proprietary line of meal replacements, protein supplements, vitamins, and specialty wellness products — including Max XB, Natural Balance Cream, and others — developed specifically to support the MRC program. These products are not generic or off-the-shelf; they are formulated to work within MRC's nutritional protocols. They are optional — you are never required to purchase them — but many clients find them to be a valuable part of achieving and maintaining their results.

Yes. MRC's product line is available through our webstore at weightlossmrc.com, with direct-to-door shipping. This is especially convenient for clients between appointments, those traveling, or anyone who wants to maintain their program from home. Visit weightlossmrc.com to browse the full current catalog and pricing.

MRC's dietary approach is built around your personal caloric target — derived from your individual metabolic assessment — and emphasizes lean proteins, low-glycemic carbohydrates, healthy fats, and adequate fiber. Meal plans are customized to you; there is no single rigid 'MRC diet.' Your counselor will build a plan around your preferences, lifestyle, food sensitivities, and metabolic profile. Sample menus and product options are available at your center and online.

Our weight loss programs include delicious, real foods that you can buy in a grocery store or eat in your favorite restaurants. Your menu will include lean proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, starches, dairy options, and healthy fats. Our menus are filled with countless combinations of real, whole foods. You won't find pre-packaged meals and liquid diets here. Developing a healthier relationship with food and preparing nutritious meals at home is quicker and easier than you might think: Check out our recipes here.

Yes, our menus are comprised of real, whole foods that you'll purchase at your local supermarket. Our menus include many naturally gluten free items including proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. We have a vast selection of carbohydrates, many of which are naturally gluten-free or have easy to find gluten-free alternatives. 

Yes! Our menus are comprised of real, whole foods that you'll purchase at your local supermarket. You can tailor any regular menu to your vegetarian preferences or follow one of our vegetarian-specific menus. There are many different vegetarian options to choose from when you follow an MRC program. 

A multivitamin and omega supplement are required as a part of your MRC program. At MRC, we have a comprehensive line of natural herbs and vitamins to choose from and support the body that supports you. Our herbs and vitamins are formulated to work in tandem with all MRC programs. All of our products are produced in cGMP facilities and are regularly tested for potency and purity. Quality matters to MRC. Your health matters to MRC. Click here to connect with an MRC Team near you to discuss our current vitamin and herb availability.

Yes, you can! Adopting a healthier lifestyle doesn't mean you have to give up your social life. In fact, we'll provide you with tips and tricks to help you enjoy a healthier meal out with friends without sabotaging your weight loss goals. The variety of options on our menus make eating out while traveling easy.

Our approach to weight loss is formulated to support healthy weight management. From Day 1 of your program, you'll begin learning strategies for a healthy body and life. The experiences you have throughout your weight loss journey - from making recipes to visiting with your team of Coaches - will lay the groundwork for sustainable healthy habit building and maintenance.

No two bodies are exactly alike, and individual results will vary. Factors such as food intake, metabolism, level of physical activity, as well as genetics all play a role in how quickly your body releases weight. Because we are all unique in our own ways, no individual results should be seen as typical.

Yes! We have programs that meet the nutritional needs of men, women, and others. Our plans are tailored to your personal needs, lifestyle, and your goals. The weight loss process for men differs from that of women - we all lose weight uniquely. Understanding this, we offer a completely customized approach to weight loss that's tailored to fit your goals, body, and needs. Click here to learn more about weight loss for men.

Yes! Many of our weight loss programs include one year of continuing support that we refer to as your Maintenance program. During this time following your weight loss, we will help you solidify and continue the habits you've learned so that they can become a natural, recurring part of your daily life. What comes after your weight loss is just as important to us as your weight loss.

A core pillar of our programs is one-on-one support throughout your journey. Throughout your program, you'll visit your weight loss center regularly to meet with your team of professional coaches. During your weigh-ins, your MRC Team will help you with meal planning, recipe ideas, problem solving, and anything else you feel you need to succeed. When you partner with MRC, you gain a weight loss coach, accountability partner, and eternal cheerleader!

No. Your consultation is complimentary and at no charge to you. If you decide that our program is not going to be the right fit, you've lost nothing more than a little bit of your time.

At this time we are unable to accept or bill insurance as payment on our programs. Many insurance policies do cover weight loss and will reimburse individuals for money spent on weight loss programs and/or products. Policies vary; you should speak with your carrier to determine what they will and will not cover. Alternatively, if you've got a Flex Spending or HSA card, we are able to accept these as payment on applicable purchases.

At select MRC locations, independently contracted licensed medical practitioners are available to perform health screenings and, when clinically appropriate, prescribe GLP-1 receptor agonist medications including semaglutide and tirzepatide. These are prescription medications evaluated and prescribed solely by licensed medical practitioners — not MRC staff. Availability varies by location and is subject to change. Contact your nearest center to learn what services are currently offered.

Phentermine is among the most searched weight loss medications our clients inquire about, and at many MRC locations, independently contracted licensed medical practitioners are available to evaluate patients and prescribe phentermine when clinically appropriate. Prescribing decisions are made exclusively by independent licensed medical practitioners — not MRC staff. Ask your local center about availability in your area.

Weight loss injections fall into two broad categories at MRC locations. First, prescription medications (such as GLP-1 receptor agonists) that are evaluated and prescribed by independently contracted licensed medical practitioners where that service is available. Second, lipotropic support injections such as B12/Lipo-Mino, which support energy and fat metabolism. At select locations, independently contracted licensed nurses (RN or LPN) are available to administer injections in-center. This service is not available at every location — contact your local center to confirm what is offered.

At locations where independently, contracted licensed medical practitioners are available, compounded prescription weight loss medications may be an option for qualified patients. Compounded medications are prescription-only, evaluated and prescribed by licensed practitioners — not MRC staff. Availability is subject to current FDA regulations and state-specific pharmacy access, which change frequently. Contact your local center for current information.

Yes. Many clients pay out-of-pocket for weight loss medications and program services. MRC counselors can walk you through what services are available at your location and help connect you with the appropriate resources. Pricing for any prescription medications or injection services is separate from the MRC program and is determined by the independent licensed practitioner or pharmacy involved. Ask about all available options during your free consultation.

B12 and lipotropic injection support is available at select MRC locations where independently contracted licensed nurses (RN or LPN) provide that service in-center. These injections support energy levels and fat metabolism as part of a comprehensive weight loss program. This service is not universally available — contact your local MRC center to confirm whether in-center injection services are offered.

Your first visit typically includes a health history review, a discussion of your weight loss goals, an overview of program options, and a Tanita body composition assessment. You'll meet one-on-one with a trained weight loss counselor who will listen — not lecture. The goal of the first visit is to understand you as an individual and map out a realistic path forward. Most first visits take about an hour. If prescription medication services are available at your location and you're interested, a separate health screening with an independently contracted licensed medical practitioner can be scheduled.

Results vary by individual, but many MRC clients experience meaningful weight loss in the early weeks of their program, with continued progress over months. Your rate of loss depends on your starting point, your metabolic rate, adherence to the program, and any additional services you choose to include. MRC uses your personal metabolic data to set realistic, evidence-based expectations — not hollow promises designed to get you in the door.

MRC offers its own line of meal replacement products and nutritional supplements designed to complement your program. These are optional tools that many clients find helpful for structure and results, but they are not required. Your counselor will help you build a real-food eating plan tailored to your caloric targets and metabolic needs. We meet you where you are — whether you want a fully structured approach or prefer working with everyday grocery store foods.

Especially then. Most people who haven't succeeded with other programs weren't failed by willpower — they were failed by programs that ignored their individual metabolism, hormonal status, and real-life circumstances. MRC begins with your data. If you've been unsuccessful before, a metabolic assessment often reveals exactly why — and gives us the roadmap to build something that actually works.