LUTCHER — St. James Parish Hospital opened an Ideal Protein Clinic in the fall to offer additional options to improve health and well-being in the community.

The program that has helped clients lose more than 1,100 pounds is now inviting community members to participate in a Summer Slim Down.

The St. James Parish Ideal Protein Summer Slim Down is a special starting July 7 and ending July 31 that will allow participants to pay a set price for four weeks’ worth of food and supplies in order to try the diet and shed pounds for summer.

In order to qualify for the special, participants must make an appointment by calling 225-258-2014 between June 30 and July 3 to get more information and purchase products to get started.

Clients signing up for the Summer Slim down will have the option to continue the diet if desired.

Ideal protein is a medically-designed weight loss protocol that helps clients lose weight and keep it off through a four phase plan. Each dieter has the help and support of St. James Parish Hospital’s local coach, Hollie Comardelle.

Comardelle helps dieters throughout the process set weight loss goals, focus on weight stabilization and plan post-diet living. Dieters learn how body fat is burned, the relationship between insulin and weight gain, which foods are best suited for healthy weight management and when, why and in what combination to eat carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

Ideal Protein products are created in high-quality labs and offer a variety of flavors for every taste. Several products are gluten-free, and new products are being developed and introduced. Sign-up for the Summer Slim Down or learn more about this medically designed protocol by contacting Comardelle at 225-258-2014.