
Dr. Claude Matar founded Pasadena Weight Loss Center in 1996, offering his lifestyle redesign techniques. 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's programs were key in helping 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.

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 founded Pasadena Weight Loss Center in 1996, offering his lifestyle redesign techniques. 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's programs were key in helping 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.

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. 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 is a Naturopathic Physician at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, specializing in functional and integrative approaches to help patients achieve optimal health and long-term wellness. His areas of focus include Functional Medicine, Anti-Aging Medicine, Hormone Balancing and Replacement Therapy, Nutrition IV Therapy, and Vitamin and Amino Acid Injections.
Dr. Ledesma is dedicated to identifying and addressing the underlying factors that may contribute to a patient’s health concerns. Through personalized care that combines naturopathic, holistic, and integrative medicine, he works to support each patient’s individual health goals while promoting prevention, balance, and overall well-being.

Dr. Sanaz Forghani is a licensed Naturopathic Medical Doctor at Pasadena Weight Loss Center with over a decade of clinical experience. A graduate of Bastyr University and UCLA, she brings expertise in Functional Medicine and a personalized approach to helping patients improve their health, well-being, and quality of life.
Known for her comprehensive assessments and individualized treatment plans, Dr. Forghani works to identify factors that may be influencing each patient’s health. Her approach incorporates lifestyle modifications, stress management, and targeted therapies, providing thoughtful, patient-centered care designed to support sustainable wellness and each patient’s individual health goals.

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 is a Naturopathic Physician at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, specializing in functional and integrative approaches to help patients achieve optimal health and long-term wellness. His areas of focus include Functional Medicine, Anti-Aging Medicine, Hormone Balancing and Replacement Therapy, Nutrition IV Therapy, and Vitamin and Amino Acid Injections.
Dr. Ledesma is dedicated to identifying and addressing the underlying factors that may contribute to a patient’s health concerns. Through personalized care that combines naturopathic, holistic, and integrative medicine, he works to support each patient’s individual health goals while promoting prevention, balance, and overall well-being.

Dr. Sanaz Forghani is a licensed Naturopathic Medical Doctor at Pasadena Weight Loss Center with over a decade of clinical experience. A graduate of Bastyr University and UCLA, she brings expertise in Functional Medicine and a personalized approach to helping patients improve their health, well-being, and quality of life.
Known for her comprehensive assessments and individualized treatment plans, Dr. Forghani works to identify factors that may be influencing each patient’s health. Her approach incorporates lifestyle modifications, stress management, and targeted therapies, providing thoughtful, patient-centered care designed to support sustainable wellness and each patient’s individual health goals.

Gabriel Herrera serves as the Clinical Nutritionist at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, helping patients develop sustainable nutrition and lifestyle habits that support long-term health and weight management. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics from California State University, Northridge and is pursuing his Master’s in Healthcare Informatics at the University of San Diego. His experience includes hospital-based nutrition support at UCLA, outpatient care, and personalized health coaching.
Trained in the health coaching principles developed by PWLC Founder Dr. Claude Matar, Gabriel makes nutrition practical, approachable, and individualized. Through education and meaningful patient relationships, he empowers patients with the knowledge, strategies, and confidence to make lasting changes that fit their lifestyles.

Hilary brings nine years of healthcare experience to Pasadena Weight Loss Center, combining 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 committed 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 comfortable, understood, and encouraged throughout their wellness journey. Her adaptability, resilience, and passion for helping others reflect the personalized approach to care at Pasadena Weight Loss Center. Outside the clinic, she enjoys Pilates, hiking, staying active, and spending quality time with her husband and two children.

Alex serves as the Fitness Manager at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, bringing more than a decade of experience in exercise science, wellness, and patient-centered fitness coaching. With a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from California State University, he designs personalized exercise programs focused on building strength, improving mobility, and supporting long-term weight management and overall wellness.
Alex believes sustainable results come from realistic habits and individualized guidance that fit each patient’s lifestyle. Through movement, education, and supportive coaching, he helps patients build confidence and work toward goals that once felt out of reach. Known for building genuine relationships, Alex is passionate about helping patients recognize their capabilities and improve their overall quality of life.

Gabriel Herrera serves as the Clinical Nutritionist at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, helping patients develop sustainable nutrition and lifestyle habits that support long-term health and weight management. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics from California State University, Northridge and is pursuing his Master’s in Healthcare Informatics at the University of San Diego. His experience includes hospital-based nutrition support at UCLA, outpatient care, and personalized health coaching.
Trained in the health coaching principles developed by PWLC Founder Dr. Claude Matar, Gabriel makes nutrition practical, approachable, and individualized. Through education and meaningful patient relationships, he empowers patients with the knowledge, strategies, and confidence to make lasting changes that fit their lifestyles.

Hilary brings nine years of healthcare experience to Pasadena Weight Loss Center, combining 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 committed 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 comfortable, understood, and encouraged throughout their wellness journey. Her adaptability, resilience, and passion for helping others reflect the personalized approach to care at Pasadena Weight Loss Center. Outside the clinic, she enjoys Pilates, hiking, staying active, and spending quality time with her husband and two children.

Alex serves as the Fitness Manager at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, bringing more than a decade of experience in exercise science, wellness, and patient-centered fitness coaching. With a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from California State University, he designs personalized exercise programs focused on building strength, improving mobility, and supporting long-term weight management and overall wellness.
Alex believes sustainable results come from realistic habits and individualized guidance that fit each patient’s lifestyle. Through movement, education, and supportive coaching, he helps patients build confidence and work toward goals that once felt out of reach. Known for building genuine relationships, Alex is passionate about helping patients recognize their capabilities and improve their overall quality of life.

Ms. Linares brings more than eight years of experience in medical aesthetics, weight management, and preventive health to Pasadena Weight Loss Center. A Cuban-trained physician, California-licensed esthetician, and Certified Medical Assistant, she combines her diverse clinical background with a personalized approach focused on helping patients look, feel, and live their best.
Ms. Linares believes meaningful, lasting results begin with education, trust, and individualized care. She is passionate about empowering patients with the knowledge and confidence to make sustainable lifestyle changes and finds fulfillment in seeing their transformations throughout their wellness journey. Outside the clinic, she enjoys running, strength training, staying active, and continuing her lifelong pursuit of learning.

Leo serves as Lead Medical Assistant at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, bringing eight years of clinical experience and a strong commitment to patient-centered care. A Cuban-trained Medical Doctor and experienced healthcare professional, he helps educate, guide, and support patients as they work toward improving their health, confidence, and overall quality of life.
Having personally lost more than 70 pounds through sustainable lifestyle changes, Leo brings a meaningful perspective and understanding to his patient interactions. His combination of clinical knowledge and personal experience helps him connect with patients and encourage sustainable progress. Outside the clinic, Leo enjoys basketball, pickleball, strength training, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Armando brings more than 12 years of healthcare experience to Pasadena Weight Loss Center, combining clinical expertise with compassionate, patient-centered care. He is dedicated to helping patients feel supported, informed, and confident as they work toward their individual health, weight management, and wellness goals.
Known for his commitment to personalized care, Armando strives to create a positive and encouraging experience for every patient. His dedication to continuous professional growth reflects Pasadena Weight Loss Center’s focus on providing thoughtful, individualized care designed to support meaningful and sustainable progress. Outside the clinic, Armando enjoys strength training, running, hiking, staying active, and following his favorite sports.

Ms. Linares brings more than eight years of experience in medical aesthetics, weight management, and preventive health to Pasadena Weight Loss Center. A Cuban-trained physician, California-licensed esthetician, and Certified Medical Assistant, she combines her diverse clinical background with a personalized approach focused on helping patients look, feel, and live their best.
Ms. Linares believes meaningful, lasting results begin with education, trust, and individualized care. She is passionate about empowering patients with the knowledge and confidence to make sustainable lifestyle changes and finds fulfillment in seeing their transformations throughout their wellness journey. Outside the clinic, she enjoys running, strength training, staying active, and continuing her lifelong pursuit of learning.

Leo serves as Lead Medical Assistant at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, bringing eight years of clinical experience and a strong commitment to patient-centered care. A Cuban-trained Medical Doctor and experienced healthcare professional, he helps educate, guide, and support patients as they work toward improving their health, confidence, and overall quality of life.
Having personally lost more than 70 pounds through sustainable lifestyle changes, Leo brings a meaningful perspective and understanding to his patient interactions. His combination of clinical knowledge and personal experience helps him connect with patients and encourage sustainable progress. Outside the clinic, Leo enjoys basketball, pickleball, strength training, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Armando brings more than 12 years of healthcare experience to Pasadena Weight Loss Center, combining clinical expertise with compassionate, patient-centered care. He is dedicated to helping patients feel supported, informed, and confident as they work toward their individual health, weight management, and wellness goals.
Known for his commitment to personalized care, Armando strives to create a positive and encouraging experience for every patient. His dedication to continuous professional growth reflects Pasadena Weight Loss Center’s focus on providing thoughtful, individualized care designed to support meaningful and sustainable progress. Outside the clinic, Armando enjoys strength training, running, hiking, staying active, and following his favorite sports.

Olivia serves as the Front Desk Coordinator at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, bringing nine years of experience in healthcare and social work to every patient interaction. Often the first person patients meet, she combines warmth, compassion, and professionalism to help each visitor feel comfortable and welcomed from the moment they arrive.
With a calm and organized approach, Olivia coordinates patient flow, supports the clinical team, and helps ensure a seamless experience from check-in to check-out. She finds fulfillment in helping patients recognize their own strength and potential for meaningful change. Outside the clinic, Olivia is a proud mother of three who enjoys attending her children’s sporting events, discovering new restaurants, and spending time outdoors.
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Adan Mena brings a strong background in exercise science and strength training to Pasadena Weight Loss Center, where he helps patients build strength, improve mobility, and support long-term health through personalized, science-based exercise programs. He 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.
Adan is passionate about helping patients accomplish goals they once believed were out of reach. Whether supporting weight management, recovery from injury, or improved overall fitness, he develops individualized programs that meet patients at their current abilities and help them progress with confidence. Outside the clinic, Adan enjoys Muay Thai, spending time with his cats, and exploring music.

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) and experience as a physical therapy aide, he helps patients build strength, improve mobility, and work toward healthier, more active lifestyles through personalized exercise and coaching.
Mike believes that improving physical strength can positively impact confidence, energy, and everyday movement. His approach emphasizes realistic, sustainable progress while helping patients recognize what they are capable of with 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 Fernandez brings five years of experience in exercise science and evidence-based training to Pasadena Weight Loss Center. With a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from California State University, Northridge (CSUN), he develops personalized fitness programs designed to help patients improve their strength, mobility, and overall health while working toward their individual goals.
Combining scientific knowledge with a supportive coaching style, Miguel helps patients build confidence, overcome challenges, and make sustainable progress toward healthier, more active lifestyles. He takes pride in meeting each patient where they are and helping them recognize what they can achieve with the right guidance. Outside the clinic, Miguel enjoys staying active, continuing his education in fitness and performance, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Julio supports patient engagement, wellness education, and community outreach at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, helping connect individuals with the personalized care and resources available to support their health goals. Through thoughtful communication and a patient-centered approach, he helps create a welcoming experience for those taking the first steps toward improving their health and well-being.
Passionate about building meaningful relationships, Julio believes the right conversation can help someone feel informed, supported, and confident in moving forward with their wellness journey. His approach reflects a commitment to making every interaction personal and encouraging. Outside the clinic, Julio enjoys fitness, riding motorcycles, exploring new places, and spending quality time with family and friends.

McKyle Sison serves as Patient Engagement & Marketing Coordinator at Pasadena Weight Loss Center, bringing experience in healthcare administration, patient communication, CRM management, and digital marketing. With a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship, he helps connect patients with the appropriate resources while supporting communication and engagement throughout their journey with the clinic.
McKyle believes thoughtful conversations and timely follow-up can help patients feel informed, supported, and confident in taking the next step toward their health goals. He is passionate about creating meaningful connections and positive patient experiences. Outside work, McKyle enjoys exploring coffee shops, playing basketball and pickleball, and spending quality time with his girlfriend, family, friends, and four dogs.


10 Consecutive Years
in the San Gabriel Valley.

Combining medical oversight with advanced assessment technology and individualized care.

10 Consecutive Years
in the San Gabriel Valley.

Combining medical oversight with advanced assessment technology and individualized care.

Medical oversight throughout your care journey.

More than weight loss — build healthier routines for life.

Medical oversight throughout your care journey.

More than weight loss — build healthier routines for life.
Every patient's experience is individual. The following testimonials describe the personal experiences of individual patients and should not be interpreted as a guarantee or representation of the results another patient will experience.

"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 Client

“Needless to say, 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

"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

“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

“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
Individual experiences and results vary. Testimonials reflect the experiences of the individuals shown and do not guarantee that other patients will experience the same or similar results.
Individual experiences and results vary. Testimonials reflect the experiences of the individuals shown and do not guarantee that other patients will experience the same or similar results.

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.

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.

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
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.
600 S Lake Ave Suite 100 Pasadena, Ca 91106
+1 (626) 844-4686
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.
Care is guided by licensed healthcare professionals who consider your health history, individual needs, and clinical evaluation when determining appropriate treatment options. As with any medical care, potential risks and benefits depend on the individual and the treatments being considered.
Contact your healthcare provider or our clinical team for guidance before changing how you take a prescribed medication.
A medically guided approach adds professional evaluation, personalization, structure, and ongoing support rather than relying on a generic, one-size-fits-all plan.
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.
No. Results vary by patient. Your progress depends on your health profile, consistency, treatment plan, and ongoing follow-through.
Yes. During your consultation and medical intake, our team can review your current treatment history and discuss appropriate next steps. Any decisions involving prescription treatment are made by a qualified healthcare provider based on individual clinical evaluation.

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