Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

Redefining Stress, One Subtype at a Time

We believe that understanding your stress subtype and learning to regulate from within can change everything: your body, your brain, your relationships, your work.

Blossoms

We love keeping you in the loop — not just on what we do at The FIT Collective, but why we do it.

Over the past 8 years, I’ve made some big observations about stress. And honestly, it all started at home.

Our family was navigating a tough season, and we knew we needed help. We found an incredible DBT therapist, and the emotional regulation tools we learned truly changed our lives. That experience opened my eyes to something bigger.

I began noticing patterns in our coaching community. Women physicians were responding to stress in different — but predictable — ways. Some isolated, some pushed harder, some froze in analysis paralysis.

I kept thinking: What if we named these? What if we gave people a map — and tools — for their unique stress signature?

That question became a mission.

The Evolution of Our Stress Framework

  • It started with an assessment tool to identify distress subtypes — the six primary ways women doctors experience and respond to stress.

  • Then I developed a full curriculum to teach each stress type and offer personalized, effective coping mechanisms.

  • From there, I dove deeper into the relational dynamics — how each subtype interacts with the others in both regulated and dysregulated states.

  • And now, we’re exploring how stress shows up in the body, behavior, and emotions, and how each subtype is impacted.

We're currently running a study inside our Transform® physician coaching program, and I’m thrilled to share that early data is coming soon. What we’re learning is already changing how I practice.

Why Emotional Regulation Comes First

I no longer start a weight loss plan by handing someone their macros.

Because here’s the truth:

  • Why do we eat poorly? → Stress is part of it

  • Why do we skip exercise? → Stress is part of it

  • Why do our relationships or jobs suffer? → Stress is part of it

So... what if we fixed it at the core first — then layered on the tools?

That’s exactly what we’re doing.

What’s Coming in January: Transform® 10

Our upcoming Transform® 10 program (starting this January!) is rooted in this philosophy. It’s a revolutionary approach to healing burnout, optimizing health, and building sustainable change — by starting with emotional regulation, not willpower.

We believe that understanding your stress subtype and learning to regulate from within can change everything: your body, your brain, your relationships, your work. And ultimately, your life.

I’m more inspired than ever about what this means — not just for individuals, but for systems.

Want to Learn More?

If this resonates, check out our blog post on the six stress subtypes:
Understanding Stress Through Six Distress Subtypes: A Guide for Women Physicians

Stay tuned — there’s so much more to come.

With love and transformation,
Ali

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

Emotional Regulation: The Missing Prescription That Could Save Women Doctors

Women doctors face rising burnout, weight gain, poor mental health, and perimenopause symptoms — and it’s not just about stress. Learn how emotional regulation can be the missing prescription for healing from the inside out. Discover our physician coaching program, Transform, and upcoming Stress RX curriculum.

Medicine is hard. But for women doctors, it’s more than hard — it’s isolating, exhausting, and often unsustainable. Burnout isn't just a buzzword. It’s the slow unraveling of a brilliant, compassionate person whose light was never meant to burn out.

We see this every day in our physician coaching group, Transform. That’s why we’re doing more than offering nutrition and fitness guidance — we’re helping women doctors understand the emotional patterns keeping them stuck. We’re conducting research on stress and building a revolutionary curriculum. Because medicine won’t heal until we do.

Why It’s So Hard for Women in Medicine Right Now

Burnout Isn’t a Personal Failure — It’s a Systemic Setup

Women physicians are expected to do it all — with less support, less pay, and less time. Many of us entered medicine with a calling to help, to heal, to serve. But instead, we’re buried in EMRs, constantly interrupted, and silently absorbing microaggressions, caregiver guilt, and hormonal shifts that no one warned us about.

Keywords: burnout, poor mental health, perimenopause, menopause

  • You're expected to smile while charting until midnight.

  • You're supposed to manage everyone's emotions but never show your own.

  • You’re tired, angry, and considering non-clinical jobs — but feel ashamed to say it out loud.

The Impact of Chronic Stress on Our Bodies and Minds

  • Weight gain and inflammation (yes, stress messes with cortisol and insulin)

  • Emotional eating and adrenal fatigue

  • Increased reactivity: anger, irritability, or total shutdown

  • Poor sleep, worsening hot flashes, and libido loss

  • A shrinking window of tolerance before everything feels like too much

Keywords: weight loss, stress reduction, anger management

This isn’t about willpower. It’s about wiring. You don’t need to be told to “self-care harder.” You need to understand your stress response — and how to regulate it.

Emotional Regulation Is the First Step to Healing

Why We Must Understand Our Stress Response Implicitly

When stress hits, we don’t think — we react. We disconnect from ourselves. Our default settings take over: people-pleasing, perfectionism, productivity addiction. These are stress adaptations, not personality traits.

And while affirmations and breathwork help, they won’t touch the deeply conditioned responses living in our nervous systems. That’s why we must teach implicit regulation:

  • Recognizing your unique stress signature

  • Creating safety in your body before creating change

  • Using emotion-based tools before cognitive strategies

  • Building capacity before asking more of yourself

Until we address this, no macro count or workout plan will stick. Emotional dysregulation sabotages health goals from the inside out.

How We’re Leading This Movement — And How You Can Join

Transform: 72 CME Hours of Deep Personal and Professional Healing

At The FIT Collective, we built Transform®, a coaching program for women doctors that starts with core transformation. Then we layer: nutrition, movement, body composition, identity, emotional regulation, and legacy.

It’s where science meets self. And we’re now enrolling our January cohort.

Research-Backed Tools, Designed for Women Doctors

We are:

  • Conducting active stress research in our coaching cohorts

  • Launching a full Stress RX Curriculum in 2026

  • Working with institutions to scale this work to residency and faculty

  • Empowering non-clinical career exploration without shame or stigma

This isn’t just coaching. It’s a clinical intervention for a broken system. And it starts with the person in the mirror.

You Deserve Support That Sees All of You

If you’re navigating menopause symptoms while charting on your phone in the dark after bedtime…
If you’re wondering if leaving medicine is the only option left…
If you’re craving a community of women doctors who understand the emotional weight of this profession…

We’re here.

Transform enrolls now for January.
And the future of medicine starts with you.

WORK WITH ME THIS YEAR IN TRANSFORM®

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

Ultra Responders to GLP-1 Agonists: Who They Are and What You Should Know

Some individuals experience dramatic results with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro—losing weight rapidly, suppressing appetite, and improving labs within weeks. Learn who these “ultra responders” are, why they react so strongly, and the pros, cons, and clinical considerations that come with accelerated success.

GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) have revolutionized obesity and metabolic health treatment. While many experience steady improvements, a unique subgroup—the "ultra responders"—see dramatic changes in weight, appetite, and metabolic markers. But what defines an ultra responder, and what should patients and clinicians watch for?

Who Are the Ultra Responders to GLP-1 Agonists?

Ultra responders are individuals who experience rapid, significant, and sometimes disproportionate results when starting a GLP-1 receptor agonist. These results can include:

  • Weight loss exceeding 15–20% of total body weight in under 6 months

  • Dramatic appetite suppression, sometimes verging on food aversion

  • Improved glucose control and insulin sensitivity within weeks

  • Increased energy or cognitive clarity due to metabolic shifts

Common Traits of Ultra Responders

While ongoing research is still exploring predictors, ultra responders often have one or more of the following:

  • Higher baseline insulin resistance or visceral adiposity

  • Strong GLP-1 receptor sensitivity, which may be genetic

  • Metabolic inflexibility that rapidly corrects with GLP-1 initiation

  • High baseline inflammatory markers that improve quickly

  • Certain gut microbiome profiles favoring rapid hormonal response

Why Do Some People Respond So Strongly?

The exaggerated response often comes down to biological sensitivity. GLP-1 medications work by slowing gastric emptying, decreasing hunger signals, and improving insulin signaling. If an individual has:

  • A hyperactive GLP-1 receptor profile

  • Severe pre-treatment metabolic dysfunction

  • A compromised hypothalamic hunger regulation loop

…then even low doses may yield outsized clinical outcomes.

Neurobiology also plays a role: GLP-1s interact with reward pathways in the brain, meaning patients with food addiction or emotional eating patterns may find sudden relief in their food thoughts or cravings.

Pros of Being an Ultra Responder

Being an ultra responder isn’t inherently negative. In fact, it can offer several clinical benefits:

  • Rapid metabolic correction: blood sugar, A1C, and inflammatory markers often improve fast

  • Motivation boost: early results can drive long-term lifestyle changes

  • Lower medication burden: some may reduce or eliminate other prescriptions

  • Better joint function and energy: due to early fat loss, especially visceral and intramuscular fat

Cons and Considerations

However, rapid change can have downsides. Key concerns include:

1. Muscle Loss Risk

Without adequate resistance training and protein intake, fast weight loss may come with disproportionate lean mass loss—affecting metabolism and function long-term.

2. Food Aversions and Malnutrition

Some ultra responders report extreme satiety or nausea, leading to low-calorie intake and potential micronutrient deficits.

3. Psychological Impact

The sudden shift in body image, hunger patterns, and relationship with food can be emotionally disorienting, especially if weight has been a long-standing identity issue.

4. Medication Tolerance & Rebound Risk

Over time, some ultra responders become less tolerant to the medication, or experience weight regain if the drug is stopped without a strong behavioral foundation.

What to Watch For as a Clinician or Patient

If you're working with—or are—an ultra responder, consider these monitoring and strategy tools:

  • Track body composition, not just weight—InBody scans, DEXA, or even tape measures

  • Assess strength and energy levels monthly to ensure muscle preservation

  • Encourage resistance training at least 2–3x per week

  • Use a mindful macro strategy to maintain nutrition even when appetite is low

  • Offer psychological support, coaching, or group support for identity shifts and emotional regulation

Conclusion

Ultra responders to GLP-1 medications demonstrate the potential power of these drugs, but they also require a strategic, multidisciplinary approach. When supported with nutrition, exercise, and emotional wellness, ultra responders can harness their early gains into sustainable, long-term health.

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

The Clinical Value of Stool and Hair Mineral Testing in Nutrition Management

Discover how stool and hair mineral testing provide powerful insights into gut health, micronutrient status, and toxin exposure. Learn how physicians can use this data to personalize nutrition strategies, improve patient outcomes, and optimize functional medicine protocols.

A Precision Approach to Micronutrient and Gut Health Assessment

As the demand for personalized nutrition rises, clinicians are turning to functional diagnostic tools like stool and hair mineral testing to uncover deeper insights. These tests provide a non-invasive window into a patient's nutrient status, detoxification potential, and gastrointestinal function—making them a compelling adjunct in evidence-informed nutrition management.

What Can Stool and Hair Mineral Testing Tell Us?

Stool Testing: Functional and Microbiome Insights

Stool analysis offers valuable data beyond standard digestive symptoms:

  • Microbiota Composition: Identifies imbalances in beneficial vs. pathogenic flora.

  • Digestive Enzymes: Detects insufficiencies in pancreatic elastase and bile acid production.

  • Inflammation Markers: Calprotectin and secretory IgA levels flag intestinal immune activation.

  • Parasitology & Pathogens: Screens for yeast, parasites, and bacterial overgrowth.

  • Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs): Indicates prebiotic effectiveness and colonic health.

  • Beta-glucuronidase: Assesses estrogen detox and cancer risk biomarkers.

Hair Mineral Testing: Long-Term Mineral Trends

Hair mineral analysis offers a retrospective look into mineral deposition and heavy metal exposure:

  • Macrominerals: Calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium levels reflect adrenal and metabolic trends.

  • Trace Minerals: Zinc, selenium, copper, and chromium give insights into immunity, oxidative stress, and glucose regulation.

  • Toxic Metals: Identifies exposure to mercury, lead, arsenic, aluminum, cadmium.

  • Ratios and Patterns: Zinc/copper, Ca/Mg, and Na/K inform stress and thyroid/adrenal patterns.

Pros and Cons of Stool and Hair Mineral Testing

Advantages

Non-Invasive & Patient-Friendly
Long-Term Trends (especially in hair testing)
Useful for Chronic, Unexplained Symptoms
Supports Functional and Lifestyle Medicine
Complements Blood Labs for Deeper Insight

Limitations

Not Diagnostic Alone
Variability in Lab Standards and Interpretation
Hair Testing Affected by Hair Products or External Contamination
Limited Insurance Coverage—Often Out-of-Pocket

How Do Clinicians Use This Data?

Stool and hair mineral test results can directly inform treatment protocols:

  • Targeted Supplementation (e.g., correcting zinc/copper imbalance or low selenium)

  • Detox Protocols (supporting liver pathways in heavy metal burden)

  • Microbiome Restoration (using probiotics, prebiotics, or antimicrobials)

  • Stress and Adrenal Support (based on Na/K and Ca/Mg ratios)

  • Diet Customization (modifying intake based on digestive and absorption profiles)

Are There Alternative Assessment Methods?

Yes, clinicians may also use:

  • Serum/Blood Testing: Best for acute changes (e.g., serum magnesium, ferritin).

  • Organic Acids Testing (OAT): Metabolic intermediates for nutrient deficiencies.

  • Micronutrient Testing (e.g., SpectraCell): Lymphocyte-based long-term nutrient status.

  • DEXA or InBody Scans: For body composition changes related to mineral status.

Each has its strengths, and multi-modal testing often yields the most clinically relevant picture.

Is This Testing Cost-Effective?

For the right patient—yes.

  • Hair Mineral Testing: ~$100–$150 per test, often done annually.

  • Comprehensive Stool Testing: ~$250–$450, depending on markers selected.

Considering the cost of chronic unresolved symptoms and unnecessary treatments, these tests can be cost-effective tools in:

  • Complex fatigue syndromes

  • Chronic gut dysfunction

  • Weight plateaus despite dietary adherence

  • Hormonal imbalance investigations

  • Detoxification planning in high-risk patients

Final Thoughts: A Functional Lens for Deeper Patient Insight

Stool and hair mineral analysis offer physicians a functional, systems-based lens to examine nutritional and toxicological imbalances. While not replacements for standard labs, they can reveal hidden contributors to chronic dysfunction and offer actionable data for personalized interventions.

When paired with patient history, symptom tracking, and clinical acumen, these tools can enhance outcomes in a cost-efficient, non-invasive way—bridging the gap between symptoms and solutions in modern integrative care.

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

Why Doctors Need Real Nutrition Guidelines—Not Just “Eat Less, Move More”

Medical providers need more than generic advice to guide patients in sustainable health. Discover where to get evidence-based nutrition training for doctors, earn up to 48 CME credits, and learn how The FIT Collective’s Nutrition and Obesity Prevention Program equips physicians with real tools to counsel patients on metabolic health, weight loss, and lifestyle change—beyond what AI or ChatGPT can provide.

Medical Providers Deserve Better Tools to Guide Their Patients

As physicians, we’re trained to diagnose, treat, and manage disease—but when it comes to nutrition counseling, the tools we’re given are often outdated or vague. Telling patients to “eat less and move more” not only lacks specificity, it also ignores the complex physiology, psychology, and environment in which health behaviors occur.

The truth is: our patients need more from us, and we need more from our training.

With rising rates of obesity, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and hormone-related weight challenges, the demand for evidence-based nutrition guidelines for doctors has never been higher. And while AI tools like ChatGPT can assist in formulating general nutrition plans, they are not a substitute for expert, physician-led education. These tools are only as effective as the knowledge base of the clinician using them.

Where to Get Evidence-Based Nutrition Training for Physicians

If you're a physician searching for “nutrition training for doctors,” “CME for obesity prevention,” or “how to counsel patients on nutrition”, you’re not alone. Thousands of providers are seeking clinical tools that go beyond generalized advice.

The Nutrition and Obesity Prevention Program by The FIT Collective® offers a comprehensive, ACGME-friendly training pathway with up to 48 CME credits, including 30 Group 2 credits toward Obesity Medicine board certification. It includes:

  • A full year of progressive strength programming (10 min/day, 3x/week)

  • Evidence-based longevity and metabolic health strategies

  • Real-time provider scripts and clinical tools

  • Step-by-step guidance for individualized patient care

Whether you're in primary care, endocrinology, pediatrics, or integrative medicine, this program gives you the confidence and clinical clarity to support patients in sustainable, science-based behavior change.

Why Training Matters More Than Ever

Today’s patients are asking more complex questions—and showing up with higher expectations. They’re Googling everything. They’re biohacking. They’re listening to influencers. And yes, they’re even bringing in AI-generated nutrition plans.

As physicians, we must meet this moment with credibility, clarity, and compassion. That starts by deepening our knowledge beyond our initial medical training. We cannot afford to be passive messengers of vague advice. We must be active guides rooted in science and empowered by real training.

The Nutrition and Obesity Prevention Program from The FIT Collective® can help fill the gap to allow medical professionals to help our patient’s best.

🔗 Explore the Program & Earn 48 CME Credits
Follow on Instagram: @alinovitskymd

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

Redefining the Doctor-Patient Relationship — And Why It Matters Now

The landscape of medicine is shifting — and with it, the expectations, roles, and relationships at its core.

Doctor in Lab Coat

The landscape of medicine is shifting — and with it, the expectations, roles, and relationships at its core. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering:

Why doesn’t my doctor have time to truly listen?

Can physicians support me as a whole person, not just a diagnosis?

Is there a more empowering way to approach care?

You’re not alone. These questions aren’t just valid — they’re vital.

For many of us in medicine, the traditional doctor-patient relationship no longer fits the needs of modern life. We’re not just being asked to treat symptoms; we’re being called to connect, coach, and co-create health alongside our patients.

And that’s where the magic lies.

From Prescription to Partnership: A New Way to “Doctor”

People often ask me: “Are you still practicing medicine, or are you coaching now?”

The truth is, I’m still a doctor. But I’m not practicing medicine the way I was trained to in 2002.

Today, I define “doctor” by its Latin root: docere — to teach.

That means helping women:

  • Understand metabolism and muscle physiology

  • Tune into emotional signals with compassion

  • Build physical and mental strength

  • Reignite purpose, both in and outside of medicine

Yes, it looks a lot like coaching. But what I’m doing is doctoring at its deepest level — with presence, intention, and love.

Why the Doctor-Patient Model Is Evolving

We’re in a powerful paradigm shift.

Patients don’t just want prescriptions; they want partnership. They’re seeking integration between mind, body, and environment. They’re asking for care that:

  • Listens without rushing

  • Educates without condescension

  • Guides without judgment

  • Fosters agency over dependence

For many physicians — especially those who’ve faced burnout or disconnection — this approach is bringing us back to life.

Coaching as a Healing Extension of Medicine

Coaching isn’t a step away from medicine. It’s a step deeper into it.

Through my programs at The FIT Collective, I sit with women physicians, high-achievers, and health seekers to explore:

  • Metabolic health during GLP-1 therapy

  • Muscle strength and preservation in midlife

  • Emotional resilience and distress tolerance

  • Nutrition rooted in data and intuition

  • Self-trust and mindset transformation

This is how I doctor now. And it’s profoundly humbling to witness how people begin not just to heal, but to understand their healing.

How We Reignite the Doctor-Patient Relationship

  1. We Make Time for the Human Story
    Listening deeply reveals what’s often missed in a 15-minute visit.

  2. We Educate, Not Just Diagnose
    Empowerment starts with understanding your own body.

  3. We Create Safe, Shame-Free Spaces
    No one transforms under judgment. Safety is the foundation.

  4. We Build Relationships of Reciprocity
    This is a partnership — not a power dynamic. We grow together.


A Return to Purpose

Some days, I still miss the white coat and hospital badge. But I’ve come to understand:

I didn’t leave medicine. I returned to it.

To why I became a doctor in the first place. To listen, to teach, to help others remember their strength.

If you’re a woman doctor ready to reconnect with your calling — or a patient seeking care that sees all of you — you are not alone.

We’re building something new.

And it’s exactly what medicine was always meant to be.

With gratitude and hope,
Ali 

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

Redefining the Doctor-Patient Relationship in the New Era of Medicine

In today’s evolving healthcare landscape, doctors are redefining what it means to heal. As a board-certified physician turned coach, I’m often asked: “Are you still practicing medicine?” The answer is yes—just not in the traditional way. The doctor-patient relationship is shifting from prescription to partnership, and I’ve never felt more aligned with my calling. Coaching is not a departure from medicine—it’s a return to the heart of it. With gratitude to leaders like Dr. Brooke Buckley, who helped me see the power of this transformation, I now serve by guiding women through muscle preservation, mindset work, GLP-1 support, and emotional resilience. This is how doctors are changing to meet today’s needs—and it’s how we reignite connection, trust, and healing.

Why the Doctor-Patient Relationship Needs a Redesign

The landscape of medicine is evolving—and so are the roles of those who practice it. Today, more people are searching “how are doctors changing?”, “why doesn’t my doctor have time to listen?”, or “can doctors coach me instead of just treating symptoms?”

These questions aren’t just valid—they’re vital.

For many of us in medicine, the traditional doctor-patient relationship no longer fits the needs of modern life. We’re not just being asked to treat diagnoses—we’re being called to connect, coach, and co-create health alongside our patients.

And I believe that’s exactly where the magic lies.

From Prescription to Partnership: A New Definition of "Doctoring"

I’m often asked, “Are you still practicing as a doctor? Or are you just coaching now?”

Here’s the truth:

I am a doctor first. I will always be a doctor.

But I’m not doctoring the way I was trained to in 2002. I’m not limited to 15-minute visits, ticking boxes on an EHR, or treating labs instead of people.

Instead, I’m reclaiming the full meaning of the word doctor—from its Latin root, docere, which means “to teach.”

Today, I’m teaching women how to:

  • Understand their metabolism and muscle physiology

  • Tune into their emotional signals with compassion

  • Develop sustainable strength—physically and mentally

  • Reignite their purpose, both in and outside of medicine

And yes, that looks a lot like coaching. But what I’m doing is doctoring at its deepest level—with presence, intention, and love.

How Doctors Are Changing to Fit the Needs of a New Generation

We’re in a paradigm shift. Patients aren’t just seeking information; they’re seeking integration. They want to understand how their body, mind, emotions, and environment all work together.

They want a doctor who:

  • Listens without rushing

  • Educates without condescending

  • Guides without prescribing shame

  • Offers tools that create agency, not dependency

In this new model, the best medical care feels more like a partnership than a power dynamic.

And for doctors like me—who’ve walked the tightrope of burnout, compassion fatigue, and system-induced disconnection—becoming more human in our approach has brought us back to life.

Coaching as a Healing Extension of Medicine

Let me be clear: Coaching isn’t a step down from medicine—it’s a step deeper into it.

Through my programs at The FIT Collective, I get to sit with women physicians, high-achievers, and health seekers and ask: What if we did this differently?

We focus on:

  • Metabolic health during GLP-1 therapy

  • Muscle preservation and strength in midlife

  • Emotional resilience and distress tolerance

  • Nutrition that honors intuition and data

  • Self-trust and mindset transformation

This is how I doctor now.

And it’s profoundly humbling to witness what happens when we empower people not just to heal—but to understand their own healing process.

How We Reignite the Doctor-Patient Relationship

1. We Make Time for the Human Story

When we slow down, we hear the real concerns. We see the patterns. We offer compassion before we offer solutions.

2. We Educate, Not Just Diagnose

Education is empowerment. I teach my clients how to understand their health, not just follow orders.

3. We Create a Safe, Shame-Free Space

There’s no transformation in judgment. The modern doctor-patient relationship must feel emotionally safe before it can be medically effective.

4. We Build a Relationship of Reciprocity

Patients aren’t just recipients—they’re co-creators. And we, as doctors, learn and grow from every individual we serve.

Gratitude for the Calling That Keeps Evolving

Some days, I still miss the white coat and hospital badge. But I’ve come to realize:

I didn’t leave medicine. I returned to it.

I returned to why I became a doctor in the first place—to listen, to teach, to help others remember their strength.

I am profoundly grateful for the privilege of doing this work. Of guiding women who’ve spent their lives serving others to finally serve themselves with the same devotion.

To those still inside the traditional model: I see you. I honor you.

To those stepping outside the lines to redefine what doctoring means: I stand with you.

And to every patient, client, or colleague who has trusted me with a piece of their story—thank you. You have made me a better doctor than any textbook ever could.

What’s Next for the Doctor-Patient Relationship?

We’re not going backward.

As more people search for how the doctor-patient relationship is changing, the world needs more physicians willing to lead this evolution—with heart, humility, and hope.

If you’re a woman doctor ready to reconnect with your calling, or a patient looking for care that sees all of you—you’re not alone.

We’re building something new.
And it’s exactly what medicine was always meant to be.

A Doctor’s Journey to Redefinition: With Gratitude to Dr. Brooke Buckley

I want to take a moment to express my deep gratitude to Dr. Brooke Buckley, a physician leader whose influence helped me see that my current work—as a coach, teacher, and healer—is not a departure from medicine, but a powerful evolution of it.

Dr. Buckley’s courage, leadership, and bold voice in reimagining what it means to "doctor" gave me permission to fully embrace this new identity—not as a step away, but as a step deeper into service.

Thank you, Dr. Buckley

Brooke M. Buckley, MD, FACS is a Board-Certified General Surgeon and Diplomate of the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine. She earned her MBA from The Johns Hopkins Carey School of Business and currently serves as System Vice President of Medical Affairs for Henry Ford Health and Medical Director of the Command Center.

From 2020–2025, she was Chief Medical Officer of Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital. Her prior leadership roles include Vice President and CMO of Meritus Health, and Associate Chair of Surgery and Medical Director for Acute Care Surgery and the Wound Center at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Maryland.

Dr. Buckley is a national thought leader on burnout, workforce wellness, and trauma-informed leadership. She serves on the Joint Commission Board, is Past-Chair of the Committee on Clinical Leadership for the American Hospital Association, and is a former Chair of AMPAC and past president of the Maryland State Medical Association.

She graduated from The Ohio State University College of Medicine and Public Health and completed her General Surgery residency in the Cleveland Clinic Health System.

Dr. Buckley doesn’t just lead hospitals—she leads movements. She reminded me that leadership in medicine doesn’t have to look one way. And for that, I am forever grateful.

Interested in coaching that honors the science and the soul?
👉 Explore my physician CME coaching programs

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

Cougar Puberty and the Physician Power Surge: Midlife Transformation for Women Doctors

Feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or hormonally off in your 40s or 50s? You’re not alone—and you’re not broken. Inside Transform®, women physicians are embracing “Cougar Puberty,” the midlife metamorphosis fueled by hormone shifts, mental load, and reinvention. With expert support from Dr. Komal Patil-Sisodia, strength training, personalized nutrition, and real-talk coaching, this isn’t about decline—it’s about evolution. Discover how physician mental health, menopause education, hormone therapy evidence, and sisterhood are helping doctors thrive in their most powerful chapter yet.

Reclaim Your Health, Hormones, and Confidence with Transform®

There’s a new kind of puberty happening—and it’s not for teenagers. It’s for women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. Some call it Cougar Puberty, others call it midlife reinvention. At Transform®, we call it a power surge.

For women physicians, this stage hits differently. We’re juggling patient care, leadership, teaching, parenting, caregiving, and invisible emotional labor—all while our hormones shift, our metabolism changes, and our nervous systems adaptto a new biological chapter.

Sound familiar?

If you’re feeling exhausted, reactive, or unsure what’s happening to your body—even as a doctor—you are not alone. And more importantly: you are not broken.

⚕️ Inside Transform®, We’ve Built a Whole-Life Framework for Women Doctors in Midlife

This isn’t a generic coaching group. It’s a curated experience blending:

  • Physician-centered coaching & mindset work

  • Nutrition strategies that evolve with your hormones

  • Progressive strength training designed to maintain lean mass and VO₂ max

  • Access to real-time menopause and hormone therapy guidance

  • CME-accredited curriculum grounded in mental fitness and metabolic science

  • A sisterhood of high-achieving women physicians who get it

🩺 Menopause Support from Our In-House Expert, Dr. Komal Patil-Sisodia

When it comes to perimenopause, menopause, and hormone therapy, we don’t guess. We guide.

We’re proud to have Dr. Komal Patil-Sisodia, a double board-certified family and obesity medicine physician, leading our menopause education. She keeps our community up-to-date on FDA-approved hormone protocols, metabolic shifts in menopause, and how to evaluate risks vs. benefits using real data—not myths.

Whether you’re curious about estrogen therapy, experiencing burnout-related hot flashes, or wondering if your emotional lability is hormonal or stress-driven—we cover it, normalize it, and support you through it.

🍽️ Nutrition That Honors Your Physiology (and Your Schedule)

The Transform® approach to midlife nutrition is rooted in metabolic flexibility, not meal plans.

We teach mindful macros, muscle-supportive fueling, and realistic strategies for busy clinicians who don’t have time to track every bite. Whether you’re on a GLP-1, practicing intuitive eating, or needing help with protein intake—we personalize without perfectionism.

And yes, we make room for joy foods and coffee snacks without shame. Because food is chemistry and culture, not just calories.

🏋️‍♀️ Science-Based Exercise for Muscle, Mood, and Longevity

Starting in week 25, our Transform® progressive training shifts into HIIT, endurance strength, and max strength blocks—strategically designed to:

  • Preserve and build lean muscle

  • Improve VO₂ max and heart rate recovery

  • Support bone density and insulin sensitivity

  • Reduce perimenopausal fat gain

  • Enhance mood, confidence, and cognitive clarity

All workouts are 10–30 minutes. No gym or extensive equipment required. Just results.

🤝 The Power of Peer Community

Perhaps the most underestimated menopause medicine? Connection.

Inside Transform®, you’ll find a protected space where you don’t have to code-switch or explain what it's like to chart after bedtime or cry in the bathroom after being dismissed in a meeting. Our women physicians come as they are—and are held fiercely in return.

  • Weekly coaching calls

  • Group-led challenges

  • Stress workshops

  • Written coaching support

Here, you're not "too much" or "not enough." You're seen, heard, and championed.

🧠 Midlife Stress and Mental Health: Why It Hits Us Differently

From imposter syndrome to ragey reactivity, midlife stress often gets misdiagnosed as personality flaws.

In reality? It’s a perfect storm of hormonal shifts, mental load overload, and outdated coping strategies. That’s why Transform® teaches you how to recognize your distress subtype—whether it’s Isolation, Assertive, Impulsivity, Control, Validation, or Catastrophizing—and gives you tools to shift in the moment.

From emotional regulation strategies to cognitive reframes, this isn’t therapy—but it’s definitely therapeutic.

💥 You’re Not Declining. You’re Evolving.

The world told us menopause was a slow fade.

Transform® says it’s a rewiring into power, clarity, and longevity—especially when supported by:

✅ Smart strength
✅ Science-backed hormone tools
✅ Peer connection
✅ Metabolic nutrition
✅ Targeted mindset coaching

You’re not too late. You’re exactly on time for your most aligned chapter yet.

Cougar puberty isn’t chaos—it’s code for reinvention.

Let us help you meet it with strategy, sisterhood, and strength.

Learn about Transform® and join the thousands of women physicians who have experienced the program. TRANSFORM®.

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

Understanding Stress Through Six Distress Subtypes: A Guide for Physicians

Discover the six hidden stress subtypes—Isolation, Assertive, Impulsivity, Control, Validation, and Catastrophizing Distress—affecting high-performing women physicians. Learn how each pattern shows up at work and home, and access tailored, research-based tools to break the cycle and reclaim your calm.

Stress Management for Doctors: The Six Distress Subtypes You Need to Know

Being in medicine means constantly juggling clinical pressure, leadership roles, home responsibilities, and often, an invisible mental load. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering why stress manifests differently for you compared to your peers, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through six unique distress subtypes based on real data from women physicians—and show you how to recognize, manage, and transform each one.

1. Isolation Distress: The Quiet Spiral

How It Feels Mentally

  • Racing catastrophic thoughts

  • Mental shutdowns during overwhelm

  • Persistent self-blame for perceived mistakes

Emotional Landscape

  • Irritation and fear

  • Emotional numbness followed by logic-mode

  • Inability to express real-time feelings

Physical Symptoms

  • Jaw clenching, muscle tightness

  • Palpitations and heaviness

  • Somatic freeze or dissociation

Workplace Patterns

  • Avoiding collaboration

  • Emotionally detached in meetings

  • Withdrawing from team support

Home Patterns

  • Need for extreme solitude after work

  • Avoiding hugs or emotional conversations

  • Feeling invisible yet resistant to asking for connection

2. Assertive Distress: Overdrive and Overcontrol

Cognitive Themes

  • Overanalyzing and mental spirals

  • Urgent need to fix or escalate

  • Difficulty letting go or pausing

Emotional State

  • Irritation masked as efficiency

  • Hyper-focus under stress

  • Compartmentalization of feelings

Bodily Cues

  • Muscle tension, jaw clenching

  • Racing heart, shallow breath

  • Restlessness followed by fatigue

At Work

  • Micromanaging or bypassing group processes

  • Frustration when others miss details

  • Emotional crash post-resolution

At Home

  • Taking on all logistics

  • Snapping at loved ones over small changes

  • Feeling unsupported but unwilling to admit it

3. Impulsivity Distress: Racing Minds and Regret

Mental Patterns

  • Obsessing over others’ opinions

  • Inner critic and planning panic

  • Need to act fast to escape discomfort

Emotional Experience

  • Shame and guilt post-reactivity

  • Frustration at emotional inconsistency

  • Emotional outbursts followed by self-recrimination

Physical Impact

  • Somatic panic and gut tension

  • Racing sensations and breathlessness

  • Mental fog outside of professional role

Professional Signs

  • Impulsive communication

  • Interrupting or shifting focus mid-task

  • Productivity fueled by anxiety

Home Life Indicators

  • Overreacting in minor conflicts

  • Parent-child power struggles

  • Rumination post-conflict

4. Control Distress: When Everything Must Be Just Right

Thought Tendencies

  • Cognitive overdrive during plan disruption

  • Self-blame and urgency to fix

  • Obsession with order and timelines

Emotions Underneath

  • Hidden panic covered by irritation

  • Guilt when others don’t match urgency

  • Emotional bottlenecking

Body Responses

  • Flushed, pacing, tense shoulders

  • Somatic crash post-stress

  • Anticipatory stress before the actual issue

In the Workplace

  • Hyper-organization masking panic

  • Reluctance to delegate

  • Resentment over always "being the one"

At Home

  • Emotional rigidity in family dynamics

  • Reactivity over changed plans

  • Difficulty trusting peace or rest

5. Validation Distress: The Unseen Performer

Mental Habits

  • Self-worth tied to feedback and titles

  • Ruminating over approval or disapproval

  • Avoidance of emotional visibility

Emotional Drivers

  • Suppressed frustration

  • Longing for reassurance

  • Disappointment when unacknowledged

Somatic Signs

  • Headaches, GI issues, heart palpitations

  • Dizziness and emotional eating

  • Chronic fatigue from unspoken effort

Workplace Indicators

  • Overachieving for visibility

  • Avoiding feedback unless perfect

  • Feeling invisible despite high output

Home Environment

  • Being the "giver" with unmet needs

  • Overextending to avoid conflict

  • Silence about internal hurt

6. Catastrophizing Distress: Always Bracing for Impact

Mindset Patterns

  • Scanning for danger or mistake

  • Obsessive detail-checking

  • Belief that disaster is imminent

Emotional Flavor

  • Anxiety layered with embarrassment

  • Shame around "overreacting"

  • Emotional shutdown from judgment fear

Physical Effects

  • Tight chest, shallow breath

  • Sleep issues and restlessness

  • Sympathetic nervous system overactivation

At Work

  • Triple-checking everything

  • Fear of vague feedback

  • Overcompensating with perfectionism

At Home

  • Over-preparing for routine events

  • Worrying without off-switch

  • Emotional withdrawal if dismissed

Final Thoughts: Stress Isn't One-Size-Fits-All

Stress shows up differently in every physician. Whether you tend toward isolation, overcontrol, impulsivity, assertion, catastrophizing, or the need for validation, understanding your pattern is the first step to transforming it. You deserve a toolkit tailored to how your brain and body respond to stress—and permission to ask for support before you crash.

Start small. Pick one ritual from your subtype.

Then? Watch what begins to shift.

You are not broken. You are wired for wisdom. And you are never, ever alone in this work.

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

My Week in Paradise… Where Do I Even Begin?

I never imagined I’d be lucky enough to be part of that dream. And yet… here we are.

Ali Novitsky + Erica Howe

It all started over a year ago when my dear friend, Dr. Erica Howe — the incredible founder and host of Women Physician Wellness (WPW) — began dreaming up her 50th birthday celebration. I remember her saying, almost casually but with that signature sparkle in her eye:

“I want my friends on a yacht.”

I never imagined I’d be lucky enough to be part of that dream. And yet… here we are.

This week, Erica brought together a small group of friends on one of the most beautiful yacht experiences I could ever imagine. And the most remarkable part? While it was her birthday, her dream, her moment — she poured so much thought, love, and care into making it special for each one of us.

That’s just who she is.

Watching her in her element — so full of life and generosity — was something I’ll never forget. Erica has this quiet way of elevating everyone around her. Being on that boat, in the middle of the sea, surrounded by women I admire so deeply… I honestly just kept pinching myself. “How did I get so lucky to be here?”

I spent the week doing my best to stay present, soaking in every sunset, every conversation, every laugh. And through it all, I kept feeling this overwhelming sense of gratitude — not just for the experience, but for the people. For Erica. For the friendships. For the reminder that we rise higher when we lift each other up.

I’m so thankful to Erica — for her heart, for her example, and for including me in something so meaningful. She inspires me to lead with more kindness, more generosity, and more presence in my own life and work.

If you’re reading this, I hope you can carry just a little of that light with you today. I know I’ll be holding onto it for a long time.

Sending you so much love today… and every day.

Xoxox-
Ali

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

The Future of Nutrition Education in Medical Schools: Where We Are and Where We're Headed

Despite overwhelming evidence linking nutrition to chronic disease, medical schools continue to fall short in preparing future physicians to provide practical, preventive dietary guidance. Most programs offer fewer than the recommended 25 hours of nutrition education, with outdated curricula often focused on biochemical theory over clinical application.

But change is on the horizon. From CME-accredited programs for attendings to culinary medicine and lifestyle-based interventions, a growing number of institutions are reimagining how nutrition is taught across the medical education continuum. This article explores the current landscape, highlights what's coming next, and showcases the leaders shaping the future.

Any school that integrates structured, evidence-based training in obesity prevention through nutrition will not only close a major clinical gap—it will become a national leader in transforming health outcomes through medicine that prioritizes prevention.

Why Nutrition Training in Medical Schools Matters More Than Ever

As chronic diseases related to poor nutrition—like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease—continue to rise, the gap in nutrition education within medical schools is gaining urgent attention. Physicians are often on the front lines of patient care, yet many report feeling unprepared to counsel patients on evidence-based nutrition strategies.

What Are the Current Nutrition Training Requirements in Medical Schools?

Minimal National Requirements Still Dominate

Currently, there is no universal standard in the U.S. mandating robust nutrition education in medical schools. The National Academy of Sciences recommends a minimum of 25 hours of nutrition education, but most schools fall far short of this guideline. Studies show that over 70% of medical schools in the U.S. fail to meet this benchmark, with some offering as few as 10 hours of instruction across the entire curriculum.

Nutrition Education Is Often Fragmented

Rather than being integrated as a dedicated course, nutrition is often embedded in unrelated modules such as biochemistry or pathophysiology. This fragmented approach fails to equip future physicians with practical tools to address dietary interventions in clinical settings.

What Is the Most Common Nutrition Curriculum in Use Today?

Focus on Biochemistry Over Application

The most prevalent approach to nutrition in medical education centers on biochemical mechanisms (e.g., macronutrient metabolism, vitamin deficiencies) rather than clinical application. Students may memorize pathways but lack exposure to:

  • Nutrition counseling skills

  • Lifestyle medicine frameworks

  • Obesity prevention strategies

  • Food as medicine principles

  • Culturally responsive nutrition care

Some progressive programs have introduced Lifestyle Medicine electives or culinary medicine workshops, but these remain optional or extracurricular.

What’s Coming Down the Pipeline for Medical Nutrition Education?

A Shift Toward Prevention, Application, and Accreditation

Forward-thinking institutions and accrediting bodies are responding to the call for change. Here are key trends shaping the future:

  • Increased CME and Graduate Medical Education Options: More residency programs are embedding nutrition and obesity management into required training, particularly within Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Pediatrics.

  • New CME-Credited Curricula for Attendings: Institutions are beginning to adopt structured nutrition training programs with continuing medical education (CME) credit for attendings, often delivered in modular formats that include strength training, GLP-1 medications, and behavior change tools.

  • Integration with Obesity Medicine Board Prep: As more physicians pursue board certification in Obesity Medicine, the demand for evidence-based nutrition training continues to grow. Curricula that offer Group Two CME credits aligned with this specialty are increasingly sought after.

  • Nutrition Training as a Quality Metric: Accrediting organizations are evaluating how well programs prepare students to address social determinants of health, with nutrition and food access emerging as key focus areas.

Who Is Leading the Charge in Medical Nutrition Education?

Several institutions and leaders are pushing the boundaries of traditional medical training:

  • Harvard's Culinary Health Education Fundamentals (CHEF) Coaching Program: Offers a hands-on, evidence-based approach for clinicians.

  • Tulane University’s Goldring Center for Culinary Medicine: A pioneer in integrating culinary skills into medical education.

  • Stanford's Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine Programs: Provide robust faculty development and residency-based initiatives.

  • The FIT Collective’s Nutrition & Obesity Prevention Curriculum: Offers CME-accredited, clinic-ready programs designed for attendings, with an emphasis on muscle preservation, longevity, GLP-1 pharmacology, and patient-centered nutrition coaching.

Why the Future Belongs to Schools Prioritizing Obesity Prevention Through Nutrition

Medical schools that take the lead in obesity prevention through comprehensive nutrition training will not only improve population health outcomes—they will also position themselves at the forefront of modern medical education.

With chronic disease burden increasing and patients demanding more personalized, preventive care, now is the time for institutions to invest in structured, evidence-based nutrition education. Those that do will define the next generation of medical excellence.

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

Perimenopause Treatment in the Age of Anti-Obesity Medications

Perimenopause is no longer just about estrogen replacement—it’s about metabolic survival. With the rise of GLP-1 medications and a deeper understanding of normal weight obesity, it’s time we update how we treat women in midlife. In this blog, Dr. Ali Novitsky explores a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to perimenopause: from hormone labs to muscle preservation, body composition testing to anti-obesity strategies, and how to care for patients who may look “normal weight” but carry hidden metabolic risk. If you’re a clinician or woman navigating midlife change, this guide is your roadmap to personalized care in a new medical era.

Redefining Women’s Health by Addressing Weight, Hormones, and Metabolism—Together

In the evolving landscape of women’s health, the intersection of perimenopause, obesity, and metabolic dysfunction is more relevant than ever. With the rise of GLP-1 receptor agonists and other anti-obesity treatments, we now have more tools than ever to support women through the often-complex transition of perimenopause. But here’s the key: treatment must be comprehensive—because perimenopause is about more than hormones, and obesity is about more than BMI.

Why Perimenopause Deserves a 360° Metabolic Approach

It's Not Just About Estrogen—It's About Everything

Perimenopause isn’t just about waning estrogen. It’s a physiologic shift in metabolic setpoint, inflammation, sleep, mood, insulin sensitivity, and body composition. Many women report:

  • Increased abdominal fat

  • Muscle loss

  • Blood sugar instability

  • Brain fog

  • Cravings and energy dips

  • Sleep disruption

These aren’t “just aging.” They’re clues that metabolic resilience is weakening—and it’s time for intervention.

The Role of Anti-Obesity Medications in Perimenopause

How GLP-1s Are Changing the Game for Women 40+

GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) are transforming care for women with obesity, metabolic syndrome, and even PCOS. These drugs regulate appetite, insulin response, and gut-brain signaling—making them powerful tools in managing:

  • Visceral fat gain

  • Pre-diabetes and insulin resistance

  • PCOS exacerbated by perimenopause

  • Emotional eating patterns

However, GLP-1s should not be used in isolation. Without strength training, protein optimization, and micronutrient support, women are at risk of muscle loss, nutrient depletion, and hormonal destabilization.

Understanding “Normal Weight Obesity” in Perimenopause

Why BMI Can Be Misleading in Women Over 40

A woman can have a “normal” BMI and still have:

  • High visceral fat

  • Low skeletal muscle mass

  • Metabolic dysfunction (insulin resistance, elevated triglycerides)

  • Fatigue, brain fog, and poor recovery

This condition—known as Normal Weight Obesity (NWO)—is especially common during perimenopause, when hormonal changes reduce lean mass and increase fat distribution in a subtle, but metabolically dangerous, way.

The Lab Work Women Need in Midlife (That’s Often Missed)

Go Beyond TSH and Estrogen

To understand the full metabolic picture, clinicians should assess:

Hormones
Estradiol, Progesterone, Testosterone, DHEA-S, SHBG, LH, FSH

Thyroid
TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, Thyroid Antibodies

Metabolic
Fasting insulin, A1c, Fasting glucose, Lipid panel, CRP

Nutrient status
Vitamin D, B12, Magnesium, Ferritin

Body Composition
InBody or DEXA to assess fat vs. lean mass

This data guides an individualized treatment plan, especially for women who “look healthy” but are struggling metabolically.

Integrative Treatment Options for Perimenopause + Obesity Risk

Combine Hormonal, Nutritional, and Movement Strategies

Hormone Therapy (HRT/MRT): Supports sleep, mood, bone, and muscle health
GLP-1 Medications: Use when appropriate for appetite regulation and insulin sensitivity
Strength Training: 3x/week to maintain lean mass and metabolic function
Protein Timing: 30–40g per meal to support anabolism
Mindful Macronutrients: Balanced meals to avoid crashes and support satiety
Stress + Sleep Support: Cortisol elevation worsens metabolic markers
Micronutrient Repletion: Especially magnesium, B vitamins, and vitamin D

Final Takeaway: Metabolic Health Is the Missing Link in Perimenopause Care

The old model of treating women in perimenopause with “a little estrogen” and generic lifestyle advice is outdated. Today, we must treat the whole picture—with evidence-based tools like anti-obesity medications, lab-guided interventions, and body composition-aware strategies.

Whether your patient is struggling with visible weight gain or silent shifts like normal weight obesity, now is the time to address hormones, metabolism, and lifestyle in harmony.

I want to direct you to a recent podcast that I did. Navigating weight gain in perimenopause and menopause. You can listen HERE.

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

Is 30 Minutes of Strength Training Per Week Enough to Preserve Muscle During Fat Loss?

Is 10 minutes of strength training, 3 days per week, truly enough to maintain muscle while losing fat—especially on GLP-1 medications? The answer may surprise you. In this article, Dr. Ali Novitsky explains why muscle maintenance and muscle gain require entirely different strategies—and why less can actually be more. Discover the science behind time-efficient training, how to help patients overcome all-or-none thinking, and how a realistic plan of 30 minutes per week can protect lean mass, boost metabolism, and support long-term success. Plus, get access to Ali’s new beginner program: 3 fresh, 10-minute workouts every week—no repeats, no guesswork, just results.

The Truth About Muscle Maintenance and Time-Efficient Workouts

If you're a physician or wellness coach advising patients on fat loss strategies—especially those on GLP-1 medications—you’ve likely encountered a key concern:

“Is 10 minutes of strength training, 3 days a week, enough to maintain muscle mass?”

The short answer is yes, if the goal is muscle preservation during fat loss, not hypertrophy or muscle gain. Here’s the science and strategy behind why the “minimum effective dose” of resistance training—30 minutes per week—is both sufficient and sustainable for most.

Muscle Maintenance vs. Muscle Gain: Two Very Different Goals

Why Most Fat Loss Clients Don’t Need a Bodybuilder's Routine

When designing strength programs, many overreach by applying muscle gain protocols to fat loss clients. The physiology, hormonal demands, and metabolic requirements of these goals are very different:

  • Muscle gain requires a caloric surplus, progressive overload, and significant time investment.

  • Muscle maintenance during fat loss, by contrast, focuses on preserving lean tissue in a calorie deficit, which doesn’t require long gym sessions.

Why 10 Minutes, 3x/Week Is a Clinically Sound Recommendation

The Math: 30 Minutes/Week x 52 Weeks = 26 Hours of Training a Year

When patients hear they need to “train for 3 hours per week,” they often fall into all-or-none thinking—especially those juggling careers, families, and burnout. The result? They do nothing.

Now compare this to a 10-minute plan:

  • 3 sessions/week of strength training = 30 minutes

  • 52 weeks/year = 26 hours of strength training annually

That’s 26 hours of muscle signaling—enough to preserve muscle, support metabolism, improve insulin sensitivity, and counter muscle wasting risks from GLP-1 medications or rapid weight loss.

The Science Behind the Minimum Effective Dose

Progressive Overload, Consistency, and Rest Matter More Than Duration

Even brief bouts of strength training (especially with full-body compound movements) generate a muscle-preserving anabolic signal. Research supports that time under tension and intensity, not duration alone, are what matter most when preserving muscle in a deficit.

  • 10 minutes of targeted strength work, done with proper form and consistency, yields substantial return.

  • Short workouts also improve adherence, lowering dropout rates.

Tailor It to the Patient’s Body Type and Recovery Capacity

One Size Doesn’t Fit All—But 10-Minute Training Works for Most

Every patient’s body type, baseline muscle mass, and stress/recovery balance must be considered. But most adults, including those with obesity or sedentary habits, benefit from starting with micro-dose training.

  • It builds confidence.

  • It creates habitual consistency.

  • It sets up a foundation for progressive overload later, without burnout.

Final Takeaway: 30 Minutes Per Week Can Preserve Muscle—If That’s the Goal

This isn’t about bulking up or maximizing hypertrophy.
This is about preserving lean tissue while losing fat—the cornerstone of long-term metabolic health.

For the average patient (or physician), 30 minutes of weekly strength training is the entry point to success. And when multiplied by consistency, it becomes a powerful longevity tool—especially in GLP-1-supported weight loss programs.

Let’s stop prescribing protocols no one can stick to.
Let’s start empowering people with realistic, research-backed strength plans that actually get done.

✅ Ready to Get Started?

Introducing my Beginner Strength Training Program — designed specifically for fat loss and muscle maintenance:

  • 3 new 10-minute strength workouts released weekly

  • 3 difficulty levels to meet you where you are

  • No repeats — 52 weeks of progressive strength content

  • Just 30 minutes per week to build consistency, confidence, and metabolic strength

👉 Join today and commit to 10 minutes, 3 times a week.
Let’s build sustainable muscle from the inside out.

Get All The Details Here

👉 Want to bring strength training in house to your practice or institution? I offer that too!
Learn More Here

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

We Have SO Many Ways to Support You

We’re here to walk beside you, wherever you are on your journey.

The FIT Collective

We’ve been thinking about you — and how many incredible ways we now have to support your growth, vitality, and fulfillment.

Whether you’re ready to transform your practice, prioritize your health, or reclaim your time and energy, we’ve got you covered. In fact, we thought it was the perfect time to put everything we offer in one place… so you can easily find the right next step for YOU.

Here’s how we can support you:

TRANSFORM® Coaching Program
A 12-month CME experience for physicians with a focus on mindset, metabolism, and muscles.
72 CME Credits

Nutrition Training & Obesity Prevention Program
Learn to confidently support patients with lifestyle-based obesity care, strength, and nutrition.
48 CME Credits

I.M.P.A.C.T. Curriculum
A full-circle leadership and wellness program rooted in identity, mission, and mindset.
72 CME Credits

Genetics Series
Personalized, precision-based coaching using your unique genetic blueprint.
Learn how your genes influence health, performance, and longevity.

ACGME-Aligned Nutrition CME for Physician Groups
Bring our proven, practical nutrition and strength curriculum to your residents or team.
Scalable training for institutional support

Clinical Strength Rx
A progressive strength training program designed specifically for practices, clinics, and hospital-based providers.
Backed by science, designed for clinics and institutions.

Berkshires Retreat (Live!) 2026
Reconnect, recharge, and reimagine what’s possible for your life and work.
12 CME Credits + luxury retreat experience.

Total Fitness Program
Year-long access to expert-designed workouts (includes our most successful programs).
Perfect for lasting results with minimal time commitment.

Beginner Strength Training
New to strength or getting back to it? This program is simple, doable, and effective.
Gentle entry into a lifelong habit.

Private Coaching
Work 1:1 to break through blocks, reconnect with your purpose, and create personalized action.
Intensive, individualized support.

Or, you can book a consult HERE

We’re here to walk beside you, wherever you are on your journey.

Let us know what resonates, or reply to this email and we’ll help you find the perfect fit!

With deep gratitude and excitement for what’s next,
Ali + The FIT Collective Team 

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

What Nutrition Training for Doctors Can—and Cannot—Solve

Nutrition training is rapidly becoming a must-have skill for modern physicians—but how far can it really go? In this article, we explore what nutrition education can help doctors achieve in clinical practice—like offering quick metabolic health tips, supporting underserved patients, and improving personal wellness—and where its limits lie, including genetics, evolutionary biology, and structural barriers. If you're a doctor seeking realistic, evidence-based nutrition tools that enhance care without overpromising, this is your essential guide.

As more physicians embrace a lifestyle and preventive medicine approach, nutrition training for doctors is gaining momentum. But what exactly can these programs achieve—and what are their natural limitations?

Whether you're a primary care provider, obesity medicine specialist, or looking to better support patients’ metabolic health, understanding the realistic impact of nutrition education is critical. In this article, we break down both sides of the equation—and invite you to explore a CME-certified program designed specifically for physicians.

What Nutrition Training Can Do for Doctors

1. Provide Quick, Actionable Strategies for Metabolic Health

One of the most practical benefits of nutrition training is gaining ready-to-use strategies that physicians can deliver in under a minute. These bite-sized tips—such as how to guide protein intake, hydration, or meal spacing—empower doctors to support metabolic health without needing to overhaul the visit.

Physicians no longer need to say “just eat better” without specifics. With a nutrition toolkit, doctors gain confidence and clarity in their patient-facing advice.

2. Support Patients Without Access to Dietitians

Many patients, especially those in rural, underserved, or high-volume clinics, may never meet with a dietitian. Nutrition training helps doctors fill this gap, offering foundational guidance that patients would otherwise miss.

At the same time, this education helps clarify when to refer to a nutrition professional for advanced medical nutrition therapy.

3. Improve the Physician's Own Health and Resilience

Doctors who understand and apply nutritional science in their own lives tend to feel better, perform better, and inspire more trust. Training fosters personal wellness habits, helping physicians model the behavior they encourage in their patients.

4. Increase Meaningful Referrals to Nutrition Experts

Doctors who are confident in nutrition conversations are more likely to identify red flags, initiate nutrition-related discussions, and make appropriate referrals. These improved touchpoints strengthen the continuity of care between physicians and registered dietitians.

5. Utilize the Full Spectrum of Metabolic Health Tools

Today’s physician needs to be comfortable using tools like InBody scans, continuous glucose monitors, and macronutrient-based planning. Nutrition training provides clinical context for these tools, allowing for data-informed interventions that go beyond guesswork.

What Nutrition Training for Physicians Cannot Solve

1. It Can’t Override Genetic Predisposition

Genetics still matter. While nutrition can modulate gene expression, it can’t eliminate inherited tendencies toward obesity, insulin resistance, or cardiovascular disease. Nutrition education should complement—not replace—individual risk assessment.

2. It Can’t Reverse Human Biology in a Modern World

We are biologically wired for a world of scarcity, not one filled with ultra-processed food and sedentary living. Even with the best training, doctors can’t rewrite evolutionary mismatches that make behavior change difficult.

What they can do is help patients navigate the modern food environment with informed, achievable strategies.

3. It Can’t Fix Structural and Social Determinants Alone

Good nutrition takes more than knowledge—it requires resources, support, and accessibility. Training helps physicians guide and support, but they cannot also be the social workers, policy makers, or food security officers. Addressing the full scope of nutritional care requires system-wide solutions.

Ready to Level Up Your Clinical Impact?

If you're a physician who wants to feel more confident in guiding nutrition conversations, you don’t have to start from scratch.

🎓 Join My Nutrition Training Program for Physicians

My physician-designed Nutrition Training Program now includes new Longevity Modules and offers 48 AMA PRA Category 1 CME Credits—including 30 Group Two Credits that count toward Obesity Medicine board certification.

This training blends:

  • Practical tools for metabolic health

  • Evidence-based strategies you can use in real clinical settings

  • Personal wellness education for doctors

  • Modules on exercise, sleep, mindset, physiology, and the latest longevity research

👉 Click here to learn more and enroll today

🎧 Want to Learn More First?

Tune into my podcast episode:
“Filling the Gap: Nutrition Training for Doctors and Advancing Metabolic Health”

In this episode, I dive into:

  • Why traditional medical education leaves a nutrition gap

  • How doctors can become more effective guides in preventive care

  • Real examples of how nutrition strategies shift patient outcomes

Listen, learn, and get inspired to expand your toolkit.

Final Thoughts: A Tool with Boundaries, A Mission with Momentum

Nutrition training for physicians is one of the most high-leverage ways to elevate clinical care, improve patient outcomes, and enhance personal health. But it’s also not a silver bullet—it can’t erase genetics or structural barriers.

Still, when paired with awareness, empathy, and system-level support, this training becomes a powerful force in transforming metabolic health—one conversation at a time.

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

Nutrition Training for Doctors Is Becoming Mandatory—Are You Ready?

Nutrition education is no longer optional for physicians—some states have already mandated it, and more are expected to follow. This blog breaks down why nutrition training is essential for doctors, how program directors can stay compliant, and how a new CME-certified course is helping clinicians confidently support patients with obesity, chronic disease, and metabolic dysfunction. Learn how to bridge the gap between diagnosis and sustainable care with evidence-based tools that fit real-world practice.

Yes, it’s happening. Nutrition education is already being mandated in several states—and yours could be next.

Whether you’re a practicing physician, residency program director, or medical school leader, now is the time to get ahead of the curve. Comprehensive nutrition training isn’t just a “nice to have” anymore—it’s quickly becoming a compliance requirement, a clinical imperative, and an opportunity to lead.

Why Is Nutrition Training Being Mandated for Physicians?

When people hear that nutrition training is now being required for doctors, responses vary:

  • Patients often say, “Wait… I thought doctors were already trained in nutrition!”

  • Doctors frequently respond, “This is just one more expectation on top of an already packed clinic day—plus, insurance doesn’t reimburse for it.”

  • Dietitians may feel slighted, saying, “That’s our job—physicians should refer to us!”

And they’re all right.
But they’re also missing the bigger picture.

Why Physicians Need Nutrition Education—Even with Limited Time

Here’s the truth:
Nutrition is a pillar of medicine.
If we, as physicians, are experts in the science and practice of medicine, then we must also be conversant—if not confident—in discussing nutrition, metabolism, and lifestyle.

The current system isn’t built to support sustainable change:

  • Patients living with chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension need long-term support.

  • A handful of insurance-covered visits to a dietitian won’t cut it.

  • The gap between diagnosis and ongoing lifestyle intervention is wide—and growing.

Physician-delivered nutrition counseling won't replace dietitians. But without basic nutrition fluency, physicians risk losing relevance in areas where behavioral and metabolic support are critical.

Program Directors: How to Prepare for Compliance and Lead with Innovation

If you're a residency program director or a medical school curriculum leader, you’re likely already fielding questions like:

  • "How do we keep our training programs compliant with new state requirements?"

  • "What nutrition CME options are credible, evidence-based, and practical for physicians?"

  • "How can we equip our learners with clinical tools they’ll actually use?"

The answer is to integrate clinically applicable, expert-led nutrition education into your curriculum now—not just to meet mandates, but to elevate care quality, patient satisfaction, and clinician confidence.

Introducing: The Nutrition Training and Obesity Prevention Program

I created the Nutrition Training and Obesity Prevention Program with all of this in mind.

48 CME credits (ACCME certified)
30 credits applicable toward Obesity Medicine board certification
✅ Designed by a physician, for physicians
✅ Focused on real-world application for metabolic health, obesity, and chronic disease

This program empowers doctors to talk to patients about nutrition without guesswork or guilt—and to bridge the gap between diagnosis and action.

Bonus: New Longevity Modules Just Added

To take this training even further, I’ve added 14 Longevity Modules—giving physicians an evidence-based framework to optimize:

  • Muscle and metabolism

  • Hormones and circadian rhythm

  • Cardiovascular and gut health

  • Brain health, body composition, and more

These topics are essential not only for treating disease—but for extending healthspan and preventing decline.

It Takes a Village—And Physicians Are a Critical Part

We need everyone on board when it comes to nutrition:

  • Registered Dietitians

  • Certified Nutritionists

  • Personal Trainers

  • Health Coaches

  • And yes—DOCTORS

Nutrition is no longer optional. It’s foundational. And the future of medicine depends on us working together—not in silos, but in synergy.

Final Thoughts: Lead the Change, Don’t Chase It

If you're a doctor seeking nutrition training that actually applies to real-world care, or a program director looking to stay compliant and competitive, don’t wait until mandates catch up to you.

🔗 Click here to learn more and enroll now.

The future of medicine is metabolic.
Let’s train for it—together.

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

Do Your Patients Need to Track Nutrition to Lose Weight? Here’s the Truth.

Most patients trying to lose weight believe they’re doing everything right—until a short nutrition audit reveals they’re eating at maintenance, not in a fat-loss deficit. In this blog, Dr. Ali Novitsky explains why 3–7 days of real food tracking (not perfection!) is the most effective tool after motivational interviewing. Learn how this strategy uncovers hidden hormonal issues, clarifies caloric needs, and helps patients finally break through weight loss plateaus—with science, empathy, and zero shame.

After motivational interviewing, this is the single most important thing I do. But I don’t do it in the way you think.

If you’re a physician helping patients lose weight, you’ve likely wondered whether tracking food intake is necessary. Is it too time-consuming? Too triggering? Too clinical?

Let me break this down: I don’t ask most of my clients to track their macros long term to lose weight.

But I do ask them to track for just 3–7 days. Why?

Because those 3–7 days give me more clarity than any lab result, body scan, or coaching script ever could.

Why Short-Term Nutrition Tracking Beats Long-Term Restriction

Most Patients Think They’re in a Deficit. They’re Not.

Many of my clients tell me they’re doing everything right and still not losing weight.

But when I review a short-term nutrition audit—just a few days of real data—we usually find they’re eating at maintenance, not in a fat-loss deficit. Their intentions are golden, but the reality is: without data, we’re guessing.

A quick audit reveals the truth. And that truth sets us up to create a strategy that works.

What I Look for in a Nutrition Audit

When I run a nutrition audit, I’m not asking for perfection. I’m asking for real. In fact, I normalize imperfect eating—because there’s no such thing as “eating perfectly.”

Here’s what I ask patients to track over 3–7 days:

  • Average daily calories

  • Protein intake

  • Carbohydrates

  • Fiber

  • Added sugar

Here’s what I often find in patients who are not seeing results:

  • Protein is too low

  • Dietary fat is too high

  • Added sugar is creeping up

It’s not about blaming. It’s about understanding the truth behind the plateau.

Calculating a Caloric Deficit Without Guesswork

Here’s where it gets even more powerful.

When we calculate a patient’s Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) and compare it to their audit, we often discover that they’re maintaining weight at levels well beyond their BMR.

Without this audit, we might prescribe a deficit that’s too aggressive—or not enough.

With it, we tailor the plan to what their body is actually doing, not just what the calculator says.

Addressing Patient Resistance with Compassion

It’s natural for patients to feel nervous about tracking. They worry they’ll have to be perfect.

But I remind them: I want real, not ideal.

Perfection isn’t required. Honesty is.

Once they understand we’re using this as a tool, not a judgment, they usually breathe easier—and we both gain insights that shift their entire trajectory.

Nutrition Audits as Diagnostic Tools for Hormonal Clues

Another surprising benefit? Food logs can help me detect hormonal imbalances.

If someone is eating below their BMR, is not insulin resistant, and still isn’t losing weight—we might be looking at leptin resistance.

This insight informs not just their calorie targets, but also how we approach metabolic flexibility and long-term healthspan.

Where I Teach This Method

I teach this exact approach in my Nutrition Training and Obesity Prevention Program, where we train healthcare providers to integrate evidence-based strategies without overwhelming their patients.

We also dive deep into these tools in my 14-month Longevity Series, where we bridge the gap between nutrition, muscle preservation, hormones, and mindset.

Relevant Podcast Episodes

To explore these topics further, check out The Metabolism, Muscles, and Mindset Podcast:

🎧 “Filling the Gap: Nutrition Training for Doctors”

Final Thoughts: It’s Not About Perfection—It’s About Precision

Short-term nutrition tracking—done with compassion and clinical insight—gives you and your patients the real data needed to move from plateau to progress.

No food shaming. No rigid rules. Just awareness, empowerment, and science.

If you’re a doctor who wants to help your patients lose weight without guessing, start with this: 3–7 days of honest food tracking. It’s a game-changer.

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

The Complete Guide to Weighted Vests: Benefits, Research, Best Brands & How to Use Them Safely

Discover how weighted vests can boost strength, preserve bone health, and accelerate fat loss—backed by the latest 2025 research. Learn who should use them, how to start safely, and which brands are best. Perfect for women in midlife, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone seeking long-term health gains.

Weighted vests have become increasingly popular as a tool to enhance workouts, improve bone density, and support weight management. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, an older adult aiming to maintain bone health, or someone looking to intensify daily activities, a weighted vest can be a valuable addition to your routine. This comprehensive guide delves into the benefits of weighted vests, recent research findings, ideal users, recommended brands, guidance on selecting the appropriate starting weight, and precautions to ensure safe usage.CU Anschutz News

What Is a Weighted Vest?

A weighted vest is a wearable fitness accessory designed to add resistance to your body during physical activity. Typically adjustable, these vests distribute weight evenly across your torso, increasing the intensity of exercises without compromising form.

Benefits of Using a Weighted Vest

1. Enhanced Strength and Endurance

Incorporating a weighted vest into bodyweight exercises—such as push-ups, squats, lunges, or walking—adds extra resistance, stimulating greater muscle strength and endurance.

2. Bone Health Support

Weighted vests can aid in maintaining bone mineral density (BMD), particularly beneficial for postmenopausal women and older adults. A 2025 study indicated that while weighted vests alone may not prevent bone loss during weight loss, they can help preserve lean muscle mass, which supports bone health .Research Administration / CTSI+2CU Anschutz News+2Bariatric News+2

3. Improved Cardiovascular Fitness

Adding a vest to cardio workouts like hiking, stair climbing, or walking increases heart rate and caloric burn, enhancing aerobic capacity. Research has shown that wearing a weighted vest can lead to higher oxygen consumption and calorie expenditure during exercise .Medical Xpress

4. Metabolic Boost and Fat Loss

The added resistance from a weighted vest increases energy expenditure. When combined with proper nutrition and strength training, it can support fat loss while preserving muscle mass .

Recent Research Findings (2023–2025)

  • Bone Density and Weight Loss: A 2025 randomized clinical trial found that neither weighted vest use nor resistance training prevented bone loss in older adults undergoing intentional weight loss, highlighting the need for alternative strategies to protect skeletal health .WFDD+3Bariatric News+3Rheumatology Advisor+3

  • Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health: A 2024 study demonstrated that whole-body circuit training with weighted vests improved body composition and reduced insulin resistance in normal-weight obese women, suggesting potential benefits for cardiovascular and metabolic health .ScienceDirect+1Dallas Express+1

  • Exercise Performance: Research indicates that wearing a weighted vest during exercise can enhance performance metrics such as oxygen consumption and calorie burn, contributing to improved fitness levels .Medical Xpress

Who Should Use a Weighted Vest?

Ideal Candidates:

Use with Caution:

  • Individuals with Joint or Back Issues: Consult a healthcare provider before use.

  • Pregnant Individuals: Avoid using weighted vests due to potential risks.

How to Choose the Right Weighted Vest

1. Start Light

Begin with a vest that is 5–10% of your body weight. For most individuals, this equates to 5–15 pounds. Gradually increase the weight as your strength and endurance improve.

2. Fit and Comfort

Select a vest that:People+1Verywell Health+1

  • Distributes weight evenly across the torso.

  • Has adjustable straps for a snug fit.

  • Is made from breathable, durable materials to prevent chafing.

3. Intended Use

  • Walking/Hiking: Opt for lightweight, breathable vests that don't shift during movement.

  • High-Intensity Workouts: Choose vests with a slim profile and secure fit to prevent bouncing.

  • Strength Training: Consider heavier vests with removable weight blocks for adjustable resistance.

Recommended Weighted Vest Brands

When selecting a weighted vest, consider reputable brands known for quality and comfort. Some popular options include:

  • Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite: Known for its slim design and breathability, ideal for various workouts.

  • MiR Adjustable Weighted Vest: Offers high weight capacity and adjustability, suitable for strength training.

  • Aduro Sport Weighted Vest: Budget-friendly option with fixed weights, great for beginners.

  • Empower Weighted Vest for Women: Designed to fit women's bodies comfortably, suitable for walking and light exercises.

Tips for Safe Use of Weighted Vests

✅ Do:

  • Warm up properly before adding load.

  • Maintain good form during exercises to prevent injury.

  • Start with lighter weights and increase gradually.

  • Use the vest consistently, incorporating it into regular workouts.

❌ Don't:

  • Use a weighted vest if you have existing joint or back issues without consulting a healthcare provider.AJC+1Verywell Health+1

  • Wear the vest for extended periods during daily activities without breaks.

  • Neglect proper posture; poor alignment under load increases injury risk.

  • Add a vest to exercises if your form is not yet solid with bodyweight movements.arxiv.org

Conclusion

Weighted vests can be a valuable tool to enhance strength, endurance, and metabolic health. Recent research underscores their benefits, particularly when used appropriately and consistently. However, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution and should be used with consideration of individual health status and fitness goals. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen involving weighted vests, especially if you have underlying health conditions.The Wall Street Journal

Ready to start? Begin with a 10-minute walk wearing a 5–10 lb vest and gradually build from there. Remember: consistency and progressive overload are key to achieving your fitness goals safely and effectively.

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

The Ultimate Health & CME Solution for Women Doctors: Coaching, Confidence, and Care That Lasts

Earn up to 72 CME credits while transforming your own health—build strength, master evidence-based nutrition, and lead your patients with unshakable confidence. Designed exclusively for women physicians ready to reclaim their vitality, elevate their expertise, and thrive in every area of life and practice.

As women physicians, we've mastered complex diagnoses, led high-stakes procedures, and cared for countless others. Yet when it comes to our own health and well-being? Too often, we’re left out of the equation.

That ends now.

Welcome to the most comprehensive wellness and education ecosystem designed exclusively for women doctors. Whether you're here to earn CME, get strong, feel confident discussing nutrition, or bring transformative tools to your practice or institution—this is your next step.

Transform® (72-CME Credits)

The Program That Women Doctors Trust for Their Own Health

Explore Transform®

This flagship 12-month coaching program is more than CME. It’s a re-education in self-care, sustainable strength, and confident patient communication.

What You Get:

  • Year-long fitness program: 3x/week, 3 progressive levels

  • 72 AMA PRA Category 1 CME Credits

  • Coaching, mental fitness, nutrition strategy, stress management

  • Community of like-minded physicians

  • Integration of longevity science and mindset work

Transform® isn’t just about workouts—it's a full reset of how we, as doctors, care for ourselves.

Transform: Learn More

Nutrition Training Program (48-CME Credits)

You Deserve to Feel Confident Talking About Nutrition

Get Trained in Nutrition

This 24-module CME program is perfect for physicians who want to:

  • Understand macros, metabolism, supplements, and sugar

  • Gain evidence-based tools to guide patient nutrition

  • Feel confident and competent during lifestyle counseling

  • Fill in the nutrition education gap med school missed

Includes live monthly Q&A calls, patient handouts, clinical scripts, and 48 CME credits (30 Group Two for Obesity Medicine).

Nutrition Training & Obesity Prevention + Longevity: Learn More

12-Month Beginner Strength Program

Progressive Strength for Real Women with Real Lives

Start Beginner Strength

Whether you're new to fitness or starting fresh, this 10-minute, 3x/week program helps you:

  • Build strength safely

  • Preserve metabolism during weight loss

  • Follow a proven system that grows with you

It’s structured, sustainable, and created specifically for physician schedules.

Beginner Strength: Learn More Here

Total At-Home Fitness Program

Your Year of Total Mind-Body Transformation

Join the 12-Month Fitness Program

This all-in-one workout program includes:

  • Core & floor work, yoga, meditation

  • Beginner to advanced strength training

  • Flexibility and recovery sessions

  • Structured weekly plan inside a custom app

No guesswork. Just results that last.

Total Fitness Program: Learn More Here

Genetic Analysis + Coaching

Transform Your Health with Genetic Insights

Start Genetic Testing

Includes the Genomind Mental Health Map and coaching walkthrough. Understand how your genes influence:

  • Mood, stress, focus, memory, and sleep

  • Emotional eating and impulse control

  • Your personalized blueprint for optimal health

Genetics Series: Learn More Here

CME + ACGME-Friendly Program for Systems

Nutrition, Strength & Longevity CME for Physician Groups

Institutional Program Info

This plug-and-play, accredited curriculum includes:

  • 48 CME Credits

  • Obesity prevention, strength training, GLP-1 protocols

  • Monthly lectures on healthspan science

  • Tools, handouts, and clinical scripts

Designed for residency programs, health systems, and private practices.

ACGME Institutional Program: Learn More Here

Strength Training for Patients (Beginner Strength Clinic Edition)

Offer Your Patients a Real Strength Solution

Bring Strength to Your Clinic

  • Evidence-based workouts led by Dr. Ali Novitsky, MD

  • App access with macros, fitness tracking, and reminders

  • Zero backend lift for staff

  • Nutrition education add-ons for providers and patients

Bring Strength Training In-House to Your Practice: Learn More Here

Physician Retreats

Community, Clarity, and Self-Reinvention

Explore Retreats

Reconnect with your purpose. Join other women physicians in immersive, empowering, transformational retreats designed to reset, restore, and elevate.

Join Us for a Physician Retreat

Private 1:1 Coaching with The Fit Collective®

Personalized Support for the Woman Who Wants More

Apply for 1:1 Coaching

Work closely with Dr. Kristi Angevine, Dr. Sara Ayers, Dr. Katie Jobbins, Dr. Ashley Sandeen, Dr. Bridget Godwin, Dr. Daisy Estrada, Jennifer Markoff, Dr. Stephanie Byerly :

  • Breakthrough personal barriers

  • Accelerate growth in health, mindset, and leadership

  • Create lasting transformation

Start 1:1 Coaching Today: Learn More Here

Why Women Doctors Trust The FIT Collective®

We were trained to heal others. Now it’s time to care for ourselves—with science, structure, and sisterhood.

Whether you need CME, nutrition training, beginner-friendly strength, or an all-in-one longevity plan, there is one hub that brings it all together.

Let this be the year you lead by example.

Explore Your Next Step with The FIT Collective®: Book a Consult with Our Program Director HERE.

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Ali Novitsky, MD Ali Novitsky, MD

How Busy Doctors Can Deliver Powerful Nutrition & Fitness Counseling in Under 5 Minutes

Are you a busy physician who wants to support your patients’ nutrition and exercise goals—without hiring a dietitian or spending hours counseling? Learn how to implement the G.O.A.L.S. + Mindful Macros® method, a simple, evidence-based system that empowers patients in just 5 minutes. Download our free provider guide and start making a bigger impact in less time.

Are you a physician who wants to help patients eat better, move more, and feel stronger—without hiring a dietitian or spending hours in lifestyle counseling?
You’re not alone. Time is tight, resources are limited, and yet the demand for holistic care has never been higher.

That’s why we created a simple, evidence-based strategy you can teach in 5 minutes or less. Using the G.O.A.L.S. + Mindful Macros® method, you can guide your patients to real results without overloading your schedule.

Table of Contents

  1. Why Doctors Struggle with Lifestyle Counseling

  2. 2.5-Minute Lifestyle Coaching: The G.O.A.L.S. Framework

  3. 2.5-Minute Nutrition Strategy: Mindful Macros®

  4. Fat Loss & Muscle Gain Meal Plans

  5. Patient-Friendly Food Lists

  6. Why This Works + How to Use It in Clinic

  7. Download the Provider’s 5-Minute Consult Guide

  8. Recommended Podcast Episodes for Physicians

Why Doctors Struggle with Lifestyle Counseling

Most physicians want to integrate nutrition and exercise guidance into their practice, but common barriers include:

  • Limited visit time

  • Lack of formal training in nutrition counseling

  • No access to on-staff dietitians or trainers

  • Concern about patient overwhelm

The good news? You don’t need an entire lifestyle clinic or hours of education. Just a structured 5-minute system.

2.5-Minute Lifestyle Coaching: The G.O.A.L.S. Framework

G.O.A.L.S. is a simple, five-step approach to behavioral change that focuses on mindset, movement, and emotional health. It’s coachable in under 3 minutes:

G – Get Hungry First

Coach patients to eat when their body signals hunger—not out of emotion or habit.

O – Observe for Fullness

Introduce a hunger scale (1–10) to support portion control and mindful eating.

A – Allow Feelings

Instead of eating emotions, patients are encouraged to journal, walk, or pause before reacting.

L – Love Movement

Promote movement that feels good: walking, dancing, stretching, or yoga count.

S – Stop Perfectionism

Help patients reframe setbacks as learning, and focus on “better” not “perfect.”

🧠 Provider Tip: These principles pair well with behavioral health conversations and weight-neutral counseling.

2.5-Minute Nutrition Strategy: Mindful Macros®

Mindful Macros® is a trademarked, physician-created nutrition method that helps patients balance their meals and enjoy food with flexibility. It requires no tracking apps, scales, or complex nutrition math.

The Hand Method:

  • Palm Your Protein – 1 palm = 30g lean protein

  • Cup Your Carbs – 1 cupped hand = 30g complex carbs

  • Forefinger to Thumb Your Fat – “OK” circle = 10g healthy fat

  • Vibe Out on Veggies – Unlimited fibrous vegetables

Why It Works:

  • Simplicity: No measuring or tech required

  • Balance: Each meal fuels performance, satiety, and energy

  • Flexibility: Patients can adapt it to any dietary style

Fat Loss & Muscle Gain Meal Plans

Here’s how many meals patients need based on their goals and gender:

For Men:

  • Fat Loss: 4 Mindful Macros® meals/day

  • Muscle Gain: 5 meals/day

For Women:

  • Fat Loss: 3 meals/day

  • Muscle Gain: 4 meals/day

Each meal includes:

  • 1 protein (30g)

  • 1 complex carb (30g)

  • 1 healthy fat (10g)

  • Unlimited fibrous veggies

Patient-Friendly Food Lists

Here’s a preview of the types of foods recommended:

Proteins:

  • Chicken, turkey, lean beef

  • Fish, shellfish, eggs, Greek yogurt

  • Tofu, beans, lentils, protein powders

Complex Carbs:

  • Brown rice, oats, quinoa

  • Sweet potatoes, legumes, whole grain pasta

  • Low-glycemic fruits (berries, apples, citrus)

Healthy Fats:

  • Olive oil, avocado oil, nut butters

  • Nuts, seeds, avocados

Veggies (Unlimited):

  • Leafy greens, cruciferous veggies, peppers, cucumbers, mushrooms

🥕 Encourage variety with raw and cooked options for texture and satisfaction.

Why This Works + How to Use It in Clinic

By using this combined approach, you can help your patients:

  • Take control of their nutrition

  • Build sustainable, body-positive habits

  • Improve labs, reduce cravings, and feel better fast

In your practice, you can:

  • Include it in preventive care or weight management visits

  • Display a quick-reference version in exam rooms

  • Offer as a follow-up PDF or handout

  • Recommend it as a behavior-first option before medication adjustments

📥 Download the Provider’s 5-Minute Consult Guide HERE.

👉 Download the G.O.A.L.S. + Mindful Macros®: Provider’s 5-Minute Consult Guide
This includes:

  • The G.O.A.L.S. coaching script

  • Mindful Macros® visual meal guide

  • Male + female sample plans

  • Printable food lists and fun phrases

  • Office-use strategies

Use it today. Change lives tomorrow.

🎧 THE MUSCLES & MINDSET PODCAST.

This is my podcast that covers all the things that you and your patients have questions about. You can check out our 200+ episodes HERE.

You can also opt-in to our 3 part private podcast series, optimal weight loss, HERE.

Final Thoughts

Helping your patients doesn’t have to be hard—or time-consuming. With the G.O.A.L.S. + Mindful Macros® framework, you have a time-efficient, empowering way to improve outcomes, deepen trust, and offer coaching-level support in your standard visits.

Let lifestyle medicine become your secret superpower.

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