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Weight Loss Services & Dietitians
re-printed with permission U.S. Government Weight Control Information Network
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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.
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:
·
Healthy eating plans that reduce calories but do not rule out
specific foods or food groups
·
Regular physical activity and/or exercise instruction
·
Tips on healthy behavior changes that also consider your cultural
needs
·
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)
·
Medical care if you are planning to lose weight by following a
special formula diet, such as a very-low-calorie diet
·
A plan to keep the weight off after you have lost it
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:
·
What does the weight-loss program consist of?
·
What are the staff qualifications?
·
Does the product or program carry any risks?
·
How much does the program costs?
·
What results do participants typically have?
What does the weight-loss program consist of?
·
Does the program offer individual counseling and/or group classes?
·
Do you have to follow a specific meal plan or keep food records?
·
Do you have to purchase special food, drugs, or supplements?
·
Does the program encourage you to be physically active, follow a
specific physical activity plan, or provide exercise instruction?
·
Does the program provide information on how to make positive and
healthy behavior changes?
· Is the program sensitive to your lifestyle and cultural needs?
What are the staff qualifications?
·
Who supervises the program?
·
What type of weight management training, experience, education,
and certifications does the staff have?
Does the product or program carry any risks
·
Are there risks related to following the program's eating or
exercise plans?
·
Are there risks related to using recommended drugs or supplements?
·
Do participants talk with a medical professional?
·
Does a medical professional oversee the program?
·
Will the program providers work with your personal health care
provider if you have a medical condition or are taking prescribed medications?
How much does the program cost?
·
What is the total cost of the program?
·
Are there recurring costs such as weekly attendance fees, costs of
food and supplement purchases, etc?
·
Are there additional fees for a follow-up program or to re-enter
the program for follow-up after you lose weight?
·
Are there additional fees for medical tests?
What results do participants typically have?
·
How much weight does an average participant lose and how long have
they kept off all or part of their weight?
·
Can the program provide references?
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
Toll-free: 1-877-9464627
Tel: (202) 828-1025
Fax: (202) 828-1028
E-mail: win@info.niddk.nih.gov
http://www.win.niddk.nih.gov
Additional Resources
Local Tel: 202-FTC-HELP (382-4357)
Toll-free: 1-877-382-4357
Web: http://www.consumer.gov/health.htm
International Food Information Council Foundation
Tel: 202-296-6540
Web: http://ific.org/
Partnership for Healthy Weight Management
Web: www.consumer.gov/weightloss/
For the Partnership for Healthy Weight Management publication
Weight Loss: Finding a Weight Loss Program that Works for You, go to
www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/health/wgtloss
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