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Finding a Weight loss Program
The
best way to reach a healthy weight is to follow a sensible
eating plan and engage in regular physical activity.
Choosing a weight-loss program may be a difficult task.
You may not know what to look for in a weight-loss program
or what questions to ask. This fact sheet can help you make
an informed decision about joining a program.
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A Responsible and Safe Weight-loss Program
Experts agree that the best way to reach a healthy weight
is to follow a sensible eating plan and engage in regular
physical activity. Weight-loss programs should encourage
healthy behaviors that help you lose weight and that you
can maintain over time. Safe and effective weight-loss
programs should include:
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Healthy
eating plans that reduce calories but do not rule out
specific foods or food groups
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Regular
physical activity and/or exercise instruction
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Tips
on healthy behavior changes that also consider your cultural
needs
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Slow and steady weight loss of about ¾ to 2 pounds
per week and not more than 3 pounds per week (weight loss
may be faster at the start of a program)
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Medical
care if you are planning to lose weight by following a
special formula diet, such as a very-low-calorie diet
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A
plan to keep the weight off after you have lost it
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Ask
Questions
Gather as much information as you can before deciding
to join a program. Providers of weight-loss programs should
be able to answer these questions:
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What
does the weight-loss program consist of? |
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What
are the staff qualifications? |
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Does
the product or program carry any risks? |
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How
much does the program costs? |
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What
results do participants typically have? |
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What
does the weight-loss program consist of? |
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Does
the program offer individual counseling and/or group classes? |
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Do
you have to follow a specific meal plan or keep food records?
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Do
you have to purchase special food, drugs, or supplements?
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Does
the program encourage you to be physically active, follow
a specific physical activity plan, or provide exercise
instruction? |
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Does
the program provide information on how to make positive
and healthy behavior changes? |
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Is
the program sensitive to your lifestyle and cultural needs?
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What
are the staff qualifications? |
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Who
supervises the program? |
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What
type of weight management training, experience, education,
and certifications does the staff have? |
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Does
the product or program carry any risks? |
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Are
there risks related to following the program's eating
or exercise plans? |
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Are
there risks related to using recommended drugs or supplements? |
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Do
participants talk with a medical professional? |
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Does
a medical professional oversee the program? |
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Will
the program providers work with your personal health care
provider if you have a medical condition or are taking
prescribed medications? |
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How
much does the program cost? |
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What
is the total cost of the program? |
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Are
there recurring costs such as weekly attendance fees,
costs of food and supplement purchases, etc? |
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Are
there additional fees for a follow-up program or to re-enter
the program for follow-up after you lose weight? |
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Are
there additional fees for medical tests? |
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What
results do participants typically have? |
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How
much weight does an average participant lose and how long
have they kept off all or part of their weight? |
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Can
the program provide references? |
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If you are interested in locating a weight-loss program
in your area, ask your health care provider for a referral
or contact your local hospital. For additional general information,
contact:
Weight-control Information Network (WIN)
1 WIN Way
Bethesda, MD 20892-3665
Toll-free: 1-877-9464627
Tel: (202) 828-1025
Fax: (202) 828-1028
E-mail: win@info.niddk.nih.gov
www.niddk.nih.gov/health/nutrit/nutrit.htm
Another Resource:
The National Council Against Health Fraud http://www.ncahf.org/
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This health article is made available by Dr. Rel Gray, MD a Weight Loss Doctor. Gray Clinic's office at 206 E. Reynolds Drive # C2 Ruston, LA 71270. Dr. Gray is easy reachable from Bernice, Downsville, Farmerville, Calhoun, Choudrant, Dubach, Grambling, Ruston, Simsboro, Eros, Hodge, Jonesboro, Quitman, Athens, Lisbon, Arcadia, Bienville, and Gibsland.
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STATE
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