The Integrative Wellness & Research Center (IWRC) introduces Demetrius Willis, MS, RD, CPT. Willis is an energetic registered dietitian, and experienced interventionist in disease control and prevention.
A graduate of Louisiana Tech University, Willis holds a bachelor of science in nutrition and dietetics with a minor in fitness and wellness, and a master of science in health and physical education. Besides his academic achievements, Willis has a history of success in augmenting lifestyle change nationally and internationally, and also has vast expertise in personal exercise regimens. His current and past patients have required a host of clinical and educational needs including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, both pre–and–post gastric bypass surgery, GI disorders and malnutrition, just to name a few. Through the use of media, group lectures and personalized service he has built a strong client following.
At the IWRC, it is our core belief that there is no magic pill to subsidize dietary needs. However, with a proper evaluation and education, anyone can follow a balanced diet, eating and exercising their way to a healthier state–of–being.
As a new patient at the IWRC, Willis will conduct a thorough analysis of past medical history combined with current health status. Furthermore, he will perform a cardiovascular assessment using a variety of methods such as treadmill and step tests, along with flexibility, muscular strength and endurance assessments in this initial analysis. Lastly, a bio–electrical impedance test which is a state–of–the–art body composition analysis to measure lean and fat mass, hydration status, body mass index, as well as estimating the basal metabolic rate is performed.
Once the final analysis is complete, Willis is able to give the patient a comprehensive copy of the assessments detailing the nutritional content of their food intake, including a food pyramid breakdown, body composition with all its components, and fitness shortfalls or excesses. An action plan is also developed, to begin the transition to a healthier platform from which to work on education, fitness or clinical benchmarks. The design is as unique as the patient and will maximize the medical requirements or personal goals discussed initially. Because every patient’s metabolic rate is different, understanding the correlation between nutrition and fitness is the key to prevention or management of an existing disease state. Implementation will be planned and coordinated with the patient; updates can be sent to their primary care or specialty care physicians. Willis’ passion for his respective discipline is contagious, as he motivates patients to understand their own bodies and how best to nourish the attainment of their goals.
Assisting patients with necessary changes inspires Willis to do more for the San Antonio community. He also provides wellness lectures to U.S. military soldiers and chronically ill patients. Willis welcomes the challenges that disease risk and uninformed lifestyle decisions bring. He looks forward to helping the Integrative Wellness & Research Center make a difference in disease control and prevention throughout the San Antonio area.
