Choosing a weight loss program

What is a 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

Questions to ask when choosing a weight-loss program

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?

• 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.

More Information/Organizations

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

International Food Information Council Foundation 1100 Connecticut Avenue, Suite 430 Washington, DC 20036 Tel: 202-296-6540

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