Meet the Team Behind Your Care
DR. CLAUDE MATAR, MD
FOUNDER
Dr. Claude Matar founded Pasadena Weight Loss Center in 1996. He is no longer in practice, having embarked on a journey to revolutionize primary care medicine utilizing advanced technology, Artificial Intelligence, and machine learning, to help make lifestyle medicine available to all. While at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, he developed the FIT50 program, a natural longevity protocol for adults over 50, and the KADACoR coaching system to help patients adhere to lifestyle modifications. With decades of experience, Dr. Matar has helped countless patients reverse chronic conditions, reduce their reliance on medications, and achieve their ideal weight through a holistic, science-backed approach to aging and wellness.
RAWAA MATAR, MBA
CO- FOUNDER / OFFICE MANAGER
With over 28 years of experience in management, Rawaa Hadid Matar has been running Pasadena Weight Loss Program for over 17 years. With a background in hospitality, business, and global cultures, she brings a unique, practical approach to teamwork, helping our patients reach their health and weight goals and our staff achieve happiness and prosperity. Bilingual and business-savvy, Rawaa is deeply committed to guiding others toward sustainable, balanced lifestyles.
DR. CLAUDE MATAR, MD
FOUNDER
Dr. Claude Matar founded Pasadena Weight Loss Center in 1996. He is no longer in practice, having embarked on a journey to revolutionize primary care medicine utilizing advanced technology, Artificial Intelligence, and machine learning, to help make lifestyle medicine available to all. While at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, he developed the FIT50 program, a natural longevity protocol for adults over 50, and the KADACoR coaching system to help patients adhere to lifestyle modifications. With decades of experience, Dr. Matar has helped countless patients reverse chronic conditions, reduce their reliance on medications, and achieve their ideal weight through a holistic, science-backed approach to aging and wellness.
RAWAA MATAR, MBA
CO- FOUNDER / OFFICE MANAGER
With over 28 years of experience in management, Rawaa Hadid Matar has been running Pasadena Weight Loss Program for over 17 years. With a background in hospitality, business, and global cultures, she brings a unique, practical approach to teamwork, helping our patients reach their health and weight goals and our staff achieve happiness and prosperity. Bilingual and business-savvy, Rawaa is deeply committed to guiding others toward sustainable, balanced lifestyles.
DR. GARRET CUPPELS, MD
CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER
Dr. Garrett Cuppels serves as the Chief Medical Officer at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, providing expert oversight to ensure every treatment plan meets the highest standards of safety, effectiveness, and personalized care. While he doesn’t see patients directly, Dr. Cuppels guides the clinical team with evidence-based protocols drawn from his extensive background as an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist. His leadership ensures that every patient benefits from decades of medical expertise and a deep commitment to wellness and compassionate care.
DR. BRYAN LEDESMA
NATUROPATHIC MEDICAL DOCTOR
As a Naturopathic Physician, Dr Ledesma's focus encompasses Functional Medicine, Anti-Aging methodologies, Hormone Balancing, Hormone Replacement Therapy, Nutrition IV Therapy, Vitamin/Amino Acid Injections, and a diverse range of approaches dedicated to guiding his patients on a journey toward optimal health.
Central to his mission is the dedication to proactively prevent and identify the root causes of health issues, employing naturopathic, holistic, and integrative medicine approaches.
DR. SANAZ FORGHANI
NATUROPATHIC MEDICAL DOCTOR
Dr. Sanaz Forghani is a licensed Naturopathic Medical Doctor with over a decade of clinical experience. A graduate of Bastyr University and UCLA, she brings advanced expertise in Functional Medicine and a deep commitment to personalized care.
Known for her in-depth assessments and tailored treatment plans, Dr. Forghani helps patients achieve lasting wellness through lifestyle changes, stress management, and targeted therapies.
GABRIEL HERRERA, CN
CLINICAL NUTRITIONIST
Gabriel Herrera earned his Bachelor's degree in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics from California State University, Northridge and is currently pursuing his Master's in Healthcare Informatics at the University of San Diego. His experience includes UCLA hospital-based nutrition support, outpatient care, and personalized nutrition and lifestyle coaching.
As Pasadena Weight Loss Center's Clinical Nutritionist, Gabriel helps patients build sustainable habits that support long-term health and weight management. Trained in the health coaching principles developed by our Founder, Dr. Claude Matar, he is passionate about making nutrition practical, approachable, and tailored to each individual's lifestyle.
Known for his ability to build trust and meaningful relationships, Gabriel empowers patients with the knowledge and confidence to make lasting changes. Outside the clinic, he enjoys running, strength training, cooking, exploring new cuisines, and traveling.
Hilary Mena
MEDICAL ASSISTANT / CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER
With nine years of healthcare experience, Hilary combines her background as a Certified Medical Assistant and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer to provide supportive, patient-centered care. Currently pursuing her path toward nursing, she is dedicated to helping patients improve their health, confidence, and overall well-being.
Known for her compassion and ability to connect with others, Hilary helps patients feel understood and encouraged at every stage of their wellness journey. Her resilience, adaptability, and passion for helping others reflect the personalized care at the heart of Fit50MD.
Outside the clinic, Hilary enjoys Pilates, hiking, staying active, and spending time with her husband and two children.
ALEX MENA
FITNESS MANAGER
Alex brings more than a decade of experience in exercise science, wellness, and patient-centered fitness coaching to Pasadena Weight Loss Center. With a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from California State University, he is passionate about helping patients improve their health through movement, education, and sustainable lifestyle changes.
As Fitness Manager, Alex designs personalized exercise programs that help patients build strength, improve mobility, and support long-term weight loss and overall wellness. He believes lasting results come from creating realistic habits that fit each person's lifestyle, empowering patients to achieve goals they once thought were out of reach.
What Alex enjoys most is watching patients regain confidence, improve their quality of life, and discover what they're truly capable of. His ability to build genuine relationships and provide individualized guidance makes him a trusted partner throughout each patient's wellness journey.
GELDYS LINARES, CMA
LICENSED ESTHETICIAN
With more than eight years of experience in medical aesthetics, weight management, and preventive health, Ms. Linares combines clinical expertise with a personalized, patient-centered approach to care.
As a Cuban-trained physician, California-licensed esthetician, and certified medical assistant, she is dedicated to helping patients look, feel, and live their best.
She believes lasting results begin with education, trust, and individualized care, empowering patients to make confident, sustainable lifestyle changes. Watching patients achieve meaningful transformations is what inspires her every day.
Outside the clinic, she enjoys running, strength training, fitness, and lifelong learning
LEONEL GALARRAGA
LEAD MEDICAL ASSISTANT/ WELLNESS CONSULTANT
A Cuban-trained Medical Doctor and experienced healthcare professional, Leo brings eight years of clinical experience and a deep commitment to patient-centered care. As Lead Medical Assistant, he helps educate, guide, and support patients as they work toward improving their health and quality of life.
Having personally lost over 70 pounds through sustainable lifestyle changes, Leo brings a unique level of understanding and encouragement to every patient interaction. His combination of clinical knowledge and personal experience allows him to connect with patients and help them move forward with confidence.
Outside the clinic, Leo enjoys basketball, pickleball, strength training, and spending time with family and friends
ARMANDO OSORIO, LVN
LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSE
With over 12 years of healthcare experience, Armando combines clinical expertise with compassionate, patient-centered care. He is dedicated to helping every patient feel supported, informed, and confident while working toward their health and wellness goals.
His commitment to personalized care and continuous professional growth reflects Pasadena Weight Loss Center's mission of delivering safe, effective, and lasting results.
Outside the clinic, Armando enjoys strength training, running, hiking, and following his favorite sports.
OLIVIA CASSIAS
FRONT DESK COORDINATOR
Olivia is often the first person patients meet, welcoming every visitor with a warm smile and genuine care that immediately puts them at ease. With nine years of experience in healthcare and social work, she brings both compassion and professionalism to every interaction.
As Front Desk Coordinator, Olivia helps keep the clinic running smoothly by coordinating patient flow, supporting the clinical team, and ensuring each visit is seamless from check-in to check-out. Her calm, organized approach reflects our commitment to delivering an exceptional patient experience from the moment you walk through our doors.
For Olivia, the most rewarding part of her work is helping people recognize their own strength and potential for lasting change. Her kindness, reliability, and dedication make her an invaluable part of the Pasadena Weight Loss Center team.
Outside the clinic, Olivia is a proud mother of three who enjoys cheering on her children at sporting events, discovering new restaurants, and spending time outdoors.
ADAN MENA
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING SPECIALIST
Adan Mena holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology/Exercise Science and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA-CSCS) with experience working alongside Division I athletes. Over the past two years at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, he has helped patients build strength, improve mobility, and achieve lasting results through personalized, science-based exercise programs.
His passion is helping people accomplish what they once believed was out of reach. Whether supporting weight loss, recovery from injury, or improving overall fitness, Adan develops individualized programs that meet each patient where they are and help them move forward with confidence.
Outside the clinic, Adan enjoys training in Muay Thai, spending time with his cats, and exploring music.
MIKE KABAJOUZIAN
CERTIFIED FITNESS PROVIDER
Mike brings more than eight years of experience in personal training, exercise science, and rehabilitation support to Pasadena Weight Loss Center. With a Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science (Kinesiology), experience as a physical therapy aide, and a passion for coaching, he is dedicated to helping patients build strength, improve mobility, and enjoy a healthier, more active life.
Mike believes that when people feel stronger physically, everything else—from energy and confidence to everyday movement—becomes easier. His approach focuses on realistic, sustainable progress that helps patients improve their quality of life, not just their fitness.
Some of Mike's proudest moments come from seeing patients accomplish goals they once thought were impossible. Whether it's helping someone regain the confidence to stay active or watching a patient in their late 60s build strength and walk farther without fatigue, he finds the greatest reward in helping people realize what they're capable of through consistency and the right support.
Outside the clinic, Mike enjoys spending time with family, playing basketball and tennis, hiking, and pursuing his passion for professional photography.
MIGUEL HERNANDEZ
CERTIFIED FITNESS PROVIDER
Miguel Fernandez holds a Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science from California State University, Northridge (CSUN) and brings five years of experience helping clients improve their strength, mobility, and overall health through evidence-based training.
He specializes in developing personalized fitness programs that meet each individual where they are, empowering patients to build confidence, overcome challenges, and achieve lasting results. Combining scientific knowledge with a supportive coaching style, Miguel is committed to helping every patient move toward a healthier, stronger, and more active life.
Outside the clinic, Miguel enjoys staying active, continuing his education in fitness and performance, and spending quality time with family and friends.
JULIO PRIOR
COMMUNITY OUTREACH MANAGER
Julio brings experience in patient engagement, wellness education, and community outreach, helping bridge the connection between individuals and the personalized care available at Fit50MD.
Passionate about creating meaningful relationships, Julio believes that the right conversation at the right time can inspire someone to take an important step toward improving their health. His focus is ensuring every person feels supported, understood, and confident as they begin their wellness journey.
Outside the clinic, Julio enjoys fitness, riding motorcycles, exploring new places, and spending quality time with family and friends.
MCKYLE SISON
PATIENT ENGAGEMENT & MARKETING COORDINATOR
McKyle Sison holds a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship and brings experience in healthcare administration, patient communication, CRM management, and digital marketing. As Patient Engagement & Marketing Coordinator, he helps connect patients with the right resources and supports them throughout their journey with Fit50MD.
Passionate about creating meaningful connections, McKyle understands that a simple conversation, follow-up, or reminder can help someone take an important step toward improving their health. He takes pride in helping patients feel supported, informed, and confident as they move forward with their goals.
Outside work, McKyle enjoys exploring coffee shops, playing basketball and pickleball, and spending quality time with his girlfriend, family, friends, and four energetic dogs.
WHY PASADENA WEIGHT LOSS CENTER?
WHY PASADENA WEIGHT LOSS CENTER?
1
Voted #1
Weight Loss Center
10 Consecutive Years
in the San Gabriel Valley.
History
of Innovation
Advanced Technology & Testing
1
Voted #1
Weight Loss Center
10 Consecutive Years
in the San Gabriel Valley.
History
of Innovation
History
of Innovation
Advanced Technology & Testing
Physician-
Supervised Care
Guided by Medical Professionals
Built for
Long-Term Success
More Than Weight Loss ; A Lifestyle
Physician-
Supervised Care
Guided by Medical Professionals
Built for
Long-Term Success
More Than Weight Loss ; A Lifestyle
Serving Patients Across Pasadena and Surrounding Areas
Hear from patients who chose Pasadena Weight Loss Center for both the quality of care and the results they’ve been able to achieve.
1
"I have been overweight my entire life, and tried many other weight loss programs, but I have never succeed until I came to Fit50. I have been in this program for 9 months and I have lost 57 pounds . I feel fantastic ... so much healthier."
Jenna
Happy Cleint
“Needless to day, I am a client and have been for over a year. I have lost over 100 pounds. I feel fantastic, I am shopping at regular clothing stores. My energy has returned and I do not fear not being there to see my grandchildren.”
Kathrine
Happy Weight Loss Client
“I’ve been seeing Dr. Matar for 17 months and I’ve lost 108 lbs thus far. But the real benefit to the program has been the knowledge I’ve gained about nutrition at the cellular level and the coaching I get to stay focused on changing my lifestyle.”
Pete
Happy Weight Loss Client
Verified Celebrity Patients
1
“The FIT50 Program is the ‘missing link’ that I was looking for. It is not a program where you are told not to eat ‘this’ or ‘that.’
It educates you and gives you the tools so that you know exactly what happens to your body and gives you the freedom to make your own choices.”
Linda Gray
Golden Globe Award Nominated Actress
"I’m a former professional athlete and two-time Super Bowl Champion. I know what it takes for my body to perform at its optimal potential. Implementing the FIT50 program into my life has helped me achieve that goal.
My energy has increased, my metabolism is better, and I don’t remember the last time I got a cold."
Dwight Hicks
Two-Time Super Bowl Champ
A Simple, Physician-Guided Process
1
Consultation
Through advanced assessments using the latest technology, we evaluate important factors that may influence your progress — including:
✓ Body composition
✓ Metabolic health
✓ Fitness levels
✓ Key health markers
✓Hormone and wellness factors when needed
Because the right plan starts with better information.
Custom Plan
Your care team creates a personalized routine that may include:
✓ Nutrition guidance
✓ Fitness and lifestyle support
✓ Wellness therapies
✓Provider-guided medication options when appropriate
✓ Long-term habit building strategies
Your body. Your goals. Your routine.
Ongoing Guidance
Our team helps you build sustainable routines while continuously monitoring and adjusting your plan, including:
✓ Ongoing consultations
✓ Progress tracking
✓ Body composition monitoring
✓ Nutrition and lifestyle coaching
✓Plan adjustments as your body changes
Contact Info
We’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re ready to schedule a consultation or simply have questions, our team is here to provide guidance, clarity, and personalized support.
Location
600 S Lake Ave Suite 101 Pasadena, Ca 91106
Phone
(626) 844-4686
FAQs
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 medications are a class of prescription drugs that not only improves blood sugar control but may also lead to weight loss. This class of drugs is commonly called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists. Weight loss can vary, depending on which GLP-1 drug you use and the dosage.
Some of the more common side effects include:
Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea.
Side effects can often be mitigated by correctly titrating your dosage upward, so you’ll want to ensure that you are taking the medication exactly as prescribed by your provider to minimize risk and/or severity of side effects. Anti-nausea medications such as ondansetron (generic Zofran) are also helpful to assist in mitigating nausea.
Low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) are a more serious risk linked to the GLP-1 class of drugs. But the risk of low blood sugar levels often only goes up if you’re also taking another drug known to lower blood sugar at the same time, such as sulfonylureas or insulin. The GLP-1 class of drugs isn’t recommended if you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia. Lab studies have linked these drugs with thyroid tumors in rats. But until more long-term studies are done, the risk to humans isn’t known. The GLP-1 class of drugs is also not recommended if you’ve had pancreatitis.
Is the program safe?
Yes. Every plan is medically supervised and tailored to your health profile, goals, and individual needs to ensure a safe and appropriate approach.
What should I do if I miss a dosage?
If you miss a dosage on your day of the week, please reach out to us before continuing your dosage. You may need to lessen your dosage for your next dose in order to minimize risk and/or severity of potential side effects.
How is this different from dieting on my own?
Most people are left relying on guesswork, conflicting advice, or generic plans. A medically guided approach provides structure, personalization, and ongoing support designed for more sustainable results.
What happens during the consultation?
We’ll discuss your goals, health history, and previous experiences with weight loss to better understand the right path forward — with no pressure or obligation.
Are results guaranteed?
No. Results vary by patient. Your progress depends on your health profile, consistency, treatment plan, and ongoing follow-through.
Can I take a dosage that I've already been on if I'm switching to you from another doctor?
Please discuss your previous prescription and dosage with your provider during your medical intake process when enrolling and if medically appropriate, your provider will coordinate your dosage accordingly.
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