Types of Programs
Types of Weight-Loss Programs
To lose weight and keep it off, you
should be aware of the different types of programs
available and the important parts of a good program. Knowing
this information should help you select or design a weight
loss program that will work for you. The three types of
weigh loss programs include: do-it-yourself programs, non-clinical programs,
and clinical programs.
Weight Loss Programs - Do-It-Yourself
Any effort to lose weight by yourself
or with a group of like-minded others through support groups, work site
or community-based programs fits in the "do-it-yourself" category.
Individuals using a do-it-yourself program rely on their own judgment,
group support, and products such as diet books for advice (Note: Not
all diet books are reliable sources of weight-loss information). No
weight loss diet plans or structured programs are offered.
Weight Loss Programs - Non-Clinical
These programs may or may not be commercially
operated, such as through a privately-owned, weight-loss chain. They
often use books and pamphlets that are prepared by health-care providers.
These programs use counselors (who usually are not health-care providers
and may or may not have training) to provide services to you. Some programs
require participants to use the program's food. Jenny Craig and Weight
Watchers are examples of this type of geographically-based weight loss
program, although they also have online weight plans.
Weight Loss Programs - Non-Clinical - Weight Loss Supplements
Some weight loss programs require dieters
to purchase higher-priced weight loss 'extras' like bars, shakes and
so on. These weight loss supplement products are not necessary for healthy
weight loss and may add considerably to the cost of the program.
Weight Loss Programs - Online
There are a growing number of online weight
loss programs, offering a variety of diet foods and online menus.
Weight Loss Programs - Clinical
This type of program may or may not be
commercially owned. Services are provided in a health-care setting,
such as a hospital, by licensed health professionals, such as physicians,
nurses, dietitians, and/or psychologists. In some clinical programs,
a health professional works alone; in others; a group of health professionals
work together to provide services to patients. Clinical programs may
offer you services such as nutrition education, medical care, behavior
change therapy, and physical activity. Clinical weight loss programs
may also use other weight-loss methods, such as very low-calorie diets,
prescription weight-loss drugs, and surgery, to treat severely overweight
patients. These treatments are described below:
Weight Loss Programs - Clinical - Obesity Treatment
Very low-calorie diets (VLCDs) are commercially
prepared formulas that provide no more than 800 calories per day and
replace all usual food intake. VLCDs help individuals lose weight more
quickly than is usually possible with low-calorie diets. Because VLCDs
can cause side effects, obesity experts recommend that only people who
are obese use these weight loss diet programs, and only with proper
medical supervision.
Related Links
Weight Loss Plan
Thoughts In Mind
Principles &
Maintenance
Popular Programs
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