Before weight loss became popular, shedding pounds typically meant giving to British charities. Be penny-wise with today’s Groupon: for $79, you get a comprehensive four-week weight-loss program including an initial consultation and two vitamin B-12 injections at Ameri-Cal Weight Clinic, with locations in Antioch, Fairfield, Alameda, Livermore, Milpitas, Hayward, and Walnut Creek (up to a $210 value).

Dr. Ronald T. Weiland of Ameri-Cal Weight Clinic coaches clients in how to safely slim down through structured, physician-supervised weight-loss programs. First, clients should fill out a new-patient form, then hand it over during an appointment at the location of their choice or surprise the staff by parachuting the documents through a skylight. During the initial appointment, patients sit down with an experienced doctor to review medical histories, assess bodies, set goals, and create a personalized, low-calorie meal plan. To calm cravings, doctors may dispense an appetite suppressant from the in-house pharmacy, and patients can opt for up to two vitamin B-12 injections to energize minds while bodies shrink. For the next four weeks, clients exercise for one hour five days a week, follow their meal plans, and track their progress in food diaries, which can be written in code to protect the identity of secret sandwich crushes. Curious patients can find extra support by dropping in anytime the clinic is open or contacting staff via phone or email. After the four-week program, clients can schedule a follow-up appointment for an additional $150 per visit to monitor progress, adjust medication, or set up new plans to build off prior successes.