Rice University Professor’s 50-Pound Weight Loss Journey with Diet and GLP-1 Medication

Tony Alvarado, a 45-year-ancient professor of mathematics at Rice University in Houston, Texas, has successfully lost 50 pounds after struggling with his weight for decades and facing health challenges, including a history of heart problems. His journey involved a comprehensive approach combining dietary changes, a ketogenic lifestyle, and, eventually, the addition of a GLP-1 medication.

A History of Weight Struggles and Health Concerns

Alvarado’s weight has fluctuated since childhood. He initially lost 30 pounds in 2013 following two episodes of acute coronary syndrome [1]. He maintained a healthy weight until around 2018, when lifestyle changes and travel with his wife, Carey, led to gradual weight gain. Frequent dining out – enjoying cuisines like New-American, Italian, Texas BBQ, Chinese, and Thai – contributed to gaining approximately 7 pounds per year for three years.

The COVID-19 lockdown exacerbated the situation, with a combination of reduced exercise, stress eating, and increased alcohol consumption resulting in an additional 15-pound gain. By October 2020, Alvarado reached 200 pounds, fluctuating between 190 and 205 pounds. He experienced symptoms such as loud snoring, low energy, shortness of breath, and difficulty with physical tasks.

The Turning Point and Initial Steps

In November 2023, a cardiologist’s insistence and a subsequent consultation with a cardiometabolic specialist prompted Alvarado to prioritize weight loss. Initially, his specialist recommended a GLP-1 medication like Wegovy or Zepbound, but insurance coverage was unavailable. He then enrolled in the VIRTA Health weight loss program, which focused on a ketogenic lifestyle to regulate insulin levels.

Dietary Changes and the Ketogenic Approach

Alvarado embraced a ketogenic diet through the VIRTA program, initially apprehensive about the high-fat content given his heart history. Although, his cardiometabolic specialist assured him it was a reasonable approach. His typical breakfast now consists of a protein smoothie with unsweetened almond milk, almond butter, whey protein, heavy cream, cinnamon, cocoa powder, and blueberries. When traveling, he seeks egg-based breakfasts or keto-friendly options at hotels and cafes.

Lunch and dinner generally include a 5- to 7-ounce portion of protein paired with two low-carb vegetable sides, such as broccoli, mushrooms, kale, cauliflower, or zucchini. He learned to focus on the enjoyment of permissible foods rather than dwelling on restrictions.

The Addition of GLP-1 Medication

Approximately four months into his weight loss journey, in June 2025, Alvarado’s insurance approved coverage for Zepbound. He currently takes the lowest dose, finding that the combination of the VIRTA program and the GLP-1 medication has a powerful effect.

Significant Health Improvements and Results

Over a year, Alvarado steadily lost 45 pounds, reaching 146 pounds and maintaining that weight for seven months, for a total loss of 50 pounds from his starting point and 60 pounds from his heaviest. He reports significant improvements in his health, including the resolution of his heart problems and regular check-ups with a cardiologist and cardiometabolic specialist.

His health markers have dramatically improved:

• May 17, 2023 (Before): A1C 6.0 (pre-diabetic), Total Cholesterol 144 (HDL = 45. LDL = 66), Triglycerides 280
• June 3, 2025 (After): Fasting Glucose 92 (normal), Total Cholesterol 98 (HDL = 57; LDL = 22), Triglycerides 103, A1C 5.4 (normal)

He also experienced the disappearance of a chronic sweating problem that had caused him self-consciousness.

Ongoing Efforts and Advice

Alvarado continues to work on establishing a consistent exercise routine, aiming for at least two strength training sessions and two to three cardio workouts per week. He emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, seeking support from loved ones, and acknowledging that setbacks are a normal part of the process. He credits his wife, Carey, and his VIRTA coach for their invaluable support.