I met endocrinologist Dr. Samar Bursheh in the summer of 2023. I was immediately struck by her passion for helping people live healthier lives — something I have been dedicated to over 30 years. Recognizing the challenge of inspiring significant changes during short doctor visits, she opened Nutriamed Metabolic and Lifestyle Center in Egg Harbor Township in the fall of 2023. Nutriamed is a warm and welcoming space with a complete state-of-the-art kitchen for healthy cooking classes, a fitness room for small groups and personal training, educational areas, and offices for Dr. Bursheh and her nutritionist. All programs are scientifically backed and medically supervised. I recently spoke with Dr. Bursheh about her goals for Nutriamed and her mission to transform lives.
Robin: Why did you become an endocrinologist?
Dr. Bursheh: My grandmothers inspired me. One was diabetic and passed away in her 60s due to a lack of advanced treatments. Unfortunately, she did not take the best care of herself. My other grandmother lived into her 90s with no medications, staying active and eating nutritiously. Both motivated me to pursue endocrinology, albeit for different reasons.
Robin: What inspired you to create Nutriamed?
Dr. Bursheh: Nutriamed has been open for a year, but the idea has been in my head for over seven years. I believe in prevention and longevity, which requires attention to medical and lifestyle factors like nutrition, exercise, mental health, and relaxation.
Robin: Tell us about some of your programs.
Dr. Bursheh: At Nutriamed, we integrate metabolic endocrinology, lifestyle medicine, culinary medicine, nutrition, and exercise. We aim to empower people to take control of their health. Our offerings include medical consultations, cooking classes with a chef, and fitness programs led by three trainers while I handle the medical aspects.
Robin: Do you have success stories from your programs?
Dr. Bursheh: Absolutely. For instance, one patient with severe back pain and limited mobility joined our modified exercise classes. Over time, she lost weight, improved her mobility, and significantly reduced her pain. Another patient with diabetes managed to bring his blood sugar levels under control through our nutrition and fitness programs, reducing his reliance on medication. These stories are a testament to the power of a comprehensive, supportive approach to health and wellness.
Robin: What are your three biggest tips for a healthier lifestyle?
Dr. Bursheh: First, stay active. Physical activity is crucial. Second, enjoy each moment and be mindful. Lastly, it’s never too late to start making positive changes.
Robin: What obstacles do people face when making lifestyle changes?
Dr. Bursheh: Unrealistic expectations are a major obstacle. Sustainable changes take time and effort. Other challenges include movement limitations and time constraints, but it’s possible to live healthier even with a busy schedule.
Robin: Is it easier for patients to stick to a healthier lifestyle when part of a group?
Dr. Bursheh: Yes, guided support from a community, including physicians, nutritionists, trainers, and peers, helps patients stick to their healthier lifestyles. You have a team of cheerleaders.
Robin: What health issues do you treat, and what challenges do your patients face?
Dr. Bursheh: We primarily address metabolic health issues like diabetes and weight management. We also treat osteoporosis and menopause-related issues, and we provide prenatal programs. Our patient population also includes teens with excess weight or endocrine concerns.
Robin: Talk about the injectables for weight loss.
Dr. Bursheh: We use semaglutide-based injectables with medical supervision. Our program includes a comprehensive evaluation, nutrition assessment, and fitness programs. It’s about building a foundation for long-term success, not just medication.
Robin: Would you say these medications are a jump start rather than a long-term solution?
Dr. Bursheh: Correct. These medications are a jump start and are intended for chronic use, but that doesn’t mean indefinitely. Chronic use means using them until you achieve your goal, which isn’t just about reaching a target weight but understanding what works for your body and achieving your fitness goals. Once patients reach their goals, we gradually taper them off the medication with ongoing medical, nutritional, and fitness supervision.
Robin: I hear that some people regain their weight after stopping these medications. How do you address this?
Dr. Bursheh: Our bodies are programmed to fight weight loss, thinking we’re in starvation mode. These medications help you surpass that threshold, but weight regain is likely without proper supervision, nutrition, and exercise. We ensure patients have the appropriate support and tools to maintain their weight loss and avoid regaining the weight they lost.
Robin Stoloff: Are you seeing abuses of these medications in the medical community?
Dr. Bursheh: Unfortunately, yes. Any medication that gains fame is prone to abuse. I always advise my patients to be cautious about where they get their information and the support associated with their prescriptions. Proper medical supervision is essential to ensure safe and effective use of these medications.
Robin: What are your future plans?
Dr. Bursheh: We’ve started “Meet Your Health Experts,” free monthly sessions with medical experts. Topics include weight loss, women’s health, nutrition, and pain management. Space is limited, so registration is required.
Robin: What are your thoughts on this past year since opening Nutriamed?
Dr. Bursheh: This year has been incredibly important for me. It reminded me how much I love teaching and helping people. I’ve grown closer to many of my patients, and some have become like family. It’s beautiful to be part of a community where everyone is living the same healthy lifestyle. I even take fitness classes with my patients, and we’ve become friends. This year has brought me a lot of knowledge and friendships, and it’s made me happier.
Robin: Thank you, Dr. Bursheh, for sharing your insights and for the incredible work you’re doing at Nutriamed. Your dedication to helping people live healthier lives is truly inspiring.
