NMHI Clinical Services



The Weight Management Clinic at TTU-NMHI

All TTU-NMHI programs focus on sustainable lifestyle changes—such as improvements in diet, physical activity, stress management, and self-care—to support long-term health goals and enhance your quality of life. Our healthcare team is composed of specialists in medicine, nutrition, exercise, and behavioral health. Additionally, NMHI provides advanced scientific testing to assess body composition and metabolism.
Comprehensive Weight Management & Wellness Programs
U-Turn Diet by Dr. Nikhil Dhurandar

- Concierge-level weight management care from a world-renowned obesity specialist
- Metabolically and medically tailored individual weight loss program
- Exclusive, one-on-one nutrition and health promotion counseling
- Personalized program to fit your unique lifestyle
Participants work closely with an internationally known obesity expert with more than 35 years of experience in counseling over 15,000 participants for weight loss. This personally tailored, scientific weight management program provides a comprehensive care plan to create lasting health improvement.
A diet need not be tasteless or leave you feeling hungry. There are many factors that impact a personalized diet plan. Your diet plan is created based on information such as:
- Your current and past health conditions and metabolic profile
- Family history
- Food preferences (likes, dislikes, allergies and aversions)
- Lifestyle and occupation
- Daily energy requirement and activity level
Dr. Dhurandhar works collaboratively with your medical provider in a comprehensive program aimed at total health. Additionally, we provide your healthcare professional with support should you wish to consider additional treatments such as obesity medications or weight loss surgery.
The overall emphasis is to work with you in your weight management effort, by suggesting a lifestyle intervention that is developed specifically for you!
Dr. Dhurandhar understands that like any other chronic disease such as diabetes or high blood pressure, obesity is a serious medical condition and not a character flaw. Obesity management is not limited to only reducing weight, but involves care of multiple body systems that may be affected. Dr. Dhurandhar coordinates obesity management treatment with each patient's medical care provider to treat the whole person. The nutritional counseling in his weight management program follows the CAP-Lifestyle Intervention Plan:
Compatibility Based – takes your physical and mental health, lifestyle, dietary and other preferences, allergies, and culture into account
Allocation Focused – guides you on what, when, and how much to eat and what type and amounts of physical activity should be done based on your unique situation
Progress Monitoring - appropriate course correction based on your response to treatment and changes in diet to keep your diet interesting and sustainable
The U-Turn Program Includes:
- BOD POD® Gold Standard Body Composition (fat & muscle) before and after 12 weeks.
- Parvo® Metabolic Cart to determine your daily caloric requirement (metabolism) pre- post- program.
- Communication between NMHI and your healthcare providers ongoing as needed
- Total of 6 one-on-one visits (up to 50 minutes each) over a 12-week period
Payment plan options are available for this program.
U-Turn Program Extension: Continue attending for 3 additional sessions after completing the full 12-week program. The additional sessions must be used within 12 months.
Additional NMHI Services
Body Composition Testing

Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA)
DEXA is the most precise and scientifically validated method for measuring body composition. It provides highly accurate data on total body fat, bone density, and muscle mass, along with detailed information about how these components are distributed across different regions of the body. Whether you're an athlete aiming to optimize your performance through targeted training and nutrition, or simply someone looking to track changes in your body composition as you work toward better health, DEXA is a reliable and insightful tool.
Testing Details
- Duration: Less than 15 minutes for a total body scan; time varies for body site specific scans. Test is performed in a private room while fully clothed. You will simply lay on the open exam table while the measurement arm passes overhead.
- Requirements: Must have ability to lie flat on exam table. Fast 2 hours prior to the test, but remain hydrated prior to fast. Limit physical activity 12 hours prior to the test. Avoid taking calcium supplements/pills (antacids) for at least 24 hours prior to your test. Wear workout type clothing to avoid zippers, belts, or buttons made of metal. Remove all external metal (jewelry, removable dental appliances, eye-glasses, etc.)
- Exclusions: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or had a radioactive substance injection in the past 14 days, you are not eligible to participate in this test. Please notify staff if you have any augmentations or implanted medical devices such as pacemakers as you are not eligible to complete this testing. If you have joint replacements or other metal hardware, the results will be skewed but you are still able to complete this test. You will be provided with additional screening questions before performing the procedure along with additional information about the scan.
Note:
This is not a medical diagnostic test. Results are solely for the purpose of informing you about your body composition (muscle and fat).

Bod Pod
The BOD POD® system is a scientifically validated tool used to measure body composition - body fat and lean mass percentages. It uses a method called air displacement plethysmography, which is a quick, non-invasive, and highly accurate technique. Specifically, the BOD POD® measures how much air your body displaces while sitting inside a sealed chamber. By combining this data with your weight and volume, it calculates body density, which is then used to estimate body fat and fat-free mass.
Testing Details
- Duration: Less than 15 minutes for a single test. Test is performed in a private room and requires you to wear form-fitting clothing for an accurate measurement while you sit safely and comfortably inside a large egg-shaped chamber.
- Requirements: Avoid exercise and intake of food or fluids (including water) within 2 hours prior to testing. You MUST bring your own form-fitting clothing. Examples of acceptable clothing are one or two-piece spandex-type swimsuit, a sports bra and/or single layer compression shorts without padding. A swim cap will be provided to you to restrain your hair during testing.
- Exclusions: The size of the chamber can be a limiting factor for some individuals. If you suffer from claustrophobia, are excessively tall or significantly morbidly obese, other testing methods should be considered.
Note:
This is not a medical diagnostic test. Results are solely for the purpose of informing you about your body composition (muscle and fat).
Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA)
The Tanita scale uses bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to estimate body composition, including body fat percentage, muscle mass, water content, bone mass, and more. Its a scientifically validated test that is a quick, non-invasive, and convenient method commonly used in clinical settings.
BIA works by sending a very low, safe electrical current through the body. Since muscle, fat, and water all conduct electricity differently, the Tanita scale measures the resistance (impedance) to the electrical current to estimate body composition. NMHI's advanced Tanita scale model uses multi-frequency or segmental BIA, measuring different body parts separately (arms, legs, trunk) for greater accuracy.
Testing Details
- Duration: Less than 5 minutes. Measurements are performed barefoot and fully clothed
- Requirements: Avoid excess food or fluids (including water) within 24 hours prior to testing. Avoid
exercise or alcohol intake wihtin 12 hours prior to testing. Do not consume food or
fluids (including water) within 3 hours prior to testing. You must remove all metal
(jewelry, underwire in bra, glasses, etc.).
- *For Females: please wear a bra without underwire (sports bra), and please contact us to reschedule the visit if your appointment will occur during your menstrual period.
- Exclusions: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, have implanted medical devices such as pacemakers, or limb amputations, you are not eligible to complete this testing. If you have joint replacements or other metal hardware, the results will be skewed but you are still able to complete this test.
Note: People with an electronic medical implant, such as a pacemaker, and pregnant women should not use this method.
Metabolic Testing

Parvo® Metabolic Cart
The Parvo® Metabolic Cart is a state-of-the-art system that utilizes indirect calorimetry to assess your basic metabolism (the amount of energy your body uses while resting). This tells us about the number of calories you may need to ingest each day by simply measuring the amount of oxygen consumed and the amount of carbon dioxide eliminated by your body.
This device can measure metabolic and respiratory function with high precision. Its widely trusted in clinical, research, and athletic performance settings to assess oxygen consumption (VO₂), carbon dioxide production (VCO₂), and energy expenditure.
By measuring oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production, it can calculate Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) or Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) and detect how much fat versus carbohydrate is being burned for energy.
Testing Details
- Duration: Approximately 15-20 minutes. Measurements are performed fully clothed while you are lying still under a comfortable, clear hood, on a bed, in a quiet private room.
- Requirements: Avoid excess food or fluids (including water) within 24 hours prior to testing. Avoid exercise or alcohol intake wihtin 12 hours prior to testing. Do not consume food or fluids (including water) within 3 hours prior to testing. You must refrain from smoking or consuming nicotine products for at least 4-6 hours prior to testing.
- Exclusions: If you are ill (cold, flu, fever, COVID-19, etc.) you will not be allowed to perform this test.
MedGem® Metabolic Test
The MedGem® device is a simplified tool which uses indirect calorimetry to measure your Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) — the amount of energy your body uses at rest. The test is quick and easy to perform, and it helps determine the number of calories you may need to consume each day. The calorie needs are estimated by simply measuring the amount of oxygen consumed and the amount of carbon dioxide eliminated by your body.
Testing Details
- Duration: Approximately 5-10 minutes. Measurements are performed fully clothed while you sit calmly and breathe into a mouthpiece attached to the MedGem® device. You will wear a nose piece to ensure breathing occurs via mouth to obtain accurate results.
- Requirements: Avoid excess food or fluids (including water) within 24 hours prior to testing. Avoid exercise or alcohol intake wihtin 12 hours prior to testing. Do not consume food or fluids (including water) within 3 hours prior to testing.
- Exclusions: If you are ill (cold, flu, fever, COVID-19, etc.) you will not be allowed to perform this test.
Individual Nutrition Consultations
Wellness & Medical Nutrition Therapy Consultations
One-on-One 50-Minute Session (Includes Body Composition Analysis)
Begin your journey to better health with a personalized Nutritional Wellness Consultation. In this 50-minute session, youll meet one-on-one with a highly trained nutrition professional who will help you explore practical and evidence-based strategies for achieving optimal nutritional health.
Your consultation is fully customized to fit your unique lifestyle, dietary preferences, health goals, and any specific concerns you may have.
Whats Included:
- Comprehensive Nutrition & Wellness Assessment
Well review your personal health history, current eating habits, and wellness goals to create a tailored nutrition plan that works for you. - Personalized Nutrition Plan
Based on your assessment, your nutrition specialist will develop an individualized wellness roadmap designed to support your goals—whether that includes weight management, managing a health condition, improving energy levels, or general healthy eating. - Body Composition Analysis (BIA Test)
Using Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA), well measure your body fat percentage and lean body mass to better understand your current metabolic health and track future progress. - Educational Tools & Resources
Youll explore a variety of evidence-based materials to support your journey, including tips on meal planning, healthy food choices, and sustainable lifestyle habits.
These sessions lay the foundation for long-term health improvements and empowers you with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed, lasting changes.
Medical Nutrition Therapy Consultations
A direct referral from your healthcare provider allows us to deliver coordinated and highly effective care.
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is a therapeutic approach to managing chronic health conditions through individualized nutrition planning and education. This service is delivered by our experienced registered dietitians, who possess advanced training in clinical nutrition and work in collaboration with your medical team.
Our dietitians provide evidence-based nutrition counseling for a wide range of medical conditions, including but not limited to:
- Diabetes and prediabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
- Chronic kidney disease
- Liver disorders
- Gastrointestinal conditions
- Pharmacological treatment for obesity
- Pre- and post-bariatric surgery care
- Food allergies and intolerances
- Malnutrition or nutrient deficiencies
MNT is designed to help you understand the role of nutrition in your specific diagnosis, improve your health outcomes, and support long-term lifestyle changes. Your plan will be personalized based on your medical history, current lab results, medications, lifestyle, and individual goals.
At NMHI, we aim to keep things simple and convenient.
Click the link below to download our physician referral request form. Just print it out and bring it to your healthcare provider to get started.To schedule a session, please speak with your healthcare provider about obtaining
a referral. Once the referral is received, we will contact you to set up your initial
consultation.
Pre-Bariatric Surgery Services
(This service requires a referral from your bariatric surgeon.)
To support your preparation for bariatric surgery, we offer comprehensive pre-surgical evaluations designed to ensure you are fully equipped—both nutritionally and psychologically—for the journey ahead. These services are conducted in close collaboration with your surgical team and tailored to meet the guidelines of your insurance provider, as well as your individual needs.
Why These Services Matter
Pre-bariatric assessments are more than just procedural requirements—they are critical tools for ensuring that you are mentally and physically prepared for the significant lifestyle changes following surgery. By addressing potential challenges early and establishing a solid foundation for success, our multidisciplinary team is here to help you make the most of your bariatric surgery and improve your long-term health and quality of life.
Presurgical Nutrition Assessment
Durations: 50-minute initial appointment (with follow-up sessions as needed)
As part of the preoperative requirements, you will undergo a thorough nutritional evaluation with a registered dietitian. This assessment is designed to review your current eating habits, identify potential nutritional deficiencies, and provide the education needed to prepare you for the dietary changes associated with bariatric surgery.
In partnership with your bariatric surgeon, we will also coordinate any additional nutrition follow-up sessions required prior to surgery. The number of follow-up appointments will depend on your insurance coverage and personal readiness for surgery.
Presurgical Psychological Evaluation (temporarily unavailable)
Includes standardized psychological testing, interpretation, and a 50-minute clinical interview
A comprehensive psychological screening is a standard requirement before undergoing bariatric surgery. This evaluation is conducted by a licensed mental health professional and includes both a clinical interview and formal psychological testing.
The goal of this assessment is to identify any psychological or behavioral factors that may impact your surgical outcomes or long-term weight management. This process not only helps fulfill surgical prerequisites but also offers valuable insight and strategies to support your emotional and behavioral well-being throughout your weight loss journey.
You have the right to receive a "Good Faith Estimate" explaining how much your medical care will cost.
Discounts:
Discounts are available for the U-Turn program and other select services upon request. To receive the discount, proof of employment for current state employees, active & retired military personel and their spouses, TTU students, TTU employees is required. Discounts are deducted from the pay-in-full amount or final payment in the payment plan. This discount cannot be applied online. It must be applied for in-person only.

Participation in the TTU-NMHI Weight Management Clinic programs does not constitute "medical care." We are advising you on healthy nutrition, healthy lifestyle improvement strategies and weight loss methods. In some cases, we are doing medical screening and monitoring for safety related to the needs of a specific program. Your medical care is the responsibility of your personal physician or another qualified medical professional.
Nutrition and Metabolic Health Initiative
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Address
1901 University Avenue Suite 101 Lubbock, TX 79410 -
Phone
806.742.6644 -
Email
nmhi@ttu.edu