An individualized approach to weight loss is essential, because we are all different in genetics, lifestyle, behaviors and physical activity.
By using the most current methods and medical monitoring, the Weight Management Program professionals are able to help people lose weight safely.
This program combines the expertise of physicians, psychologists, registered dietitians and physical therapists to provide a comprehensive approach to the medical management of obesity.
PHILOSOPHY
The Washington University Weight Management Program's philosophy emphasizes helping individuals achieve a healthy lifestyle. This is based on the following principles:
- Obesity is a disease that requires long-term treatment for successful management.
- Health benefits are associated with a modest amount of weight loss (5 to 10 percent or more of one's body weight), as long as it is maintained.
- Changes in eating habits are essential for weight loss.
- Physical activity is important for long-term weight management success.
PROGRAM GOALS
The Washington University Weight Management Program uses the latest scientific knowledge to help patients achieve gradual, safe weight loss.
- Treatment will be medically monitored by physicians.
- Patients will work with registered dietitians to develop an individualized meal plan using meal replacements and conventional foods.
- Patients will learn to gradually increase the number of minutes they engage in physical activity.
- Patients will acquire weight loss skills, and strategies for weight maintenance, by adopting a healthier lifestyle that can be kept up in the long-term.
PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Medical Monitoring
Our physicians are trained to recognize medical conditions associated with excessive weight and with weight loss. Regular monitoring by our medical team helps reduce health risks related to weight loss and enables our staff to adjust treatment as needed.
Lifestyle Modification
Patients will learn to:
- Develop healthier behaviors.
- Identify triggers that lead to unhealthy behaviors.
- Change their surrounding environment to support weight control.
- Make positive lifestyle choices.
- Establish a social network to help support weight management efforts.
Nutrition
Nutritional education, provided by registered dietitians, will teach patients how to make healthier eating choices. Patients will also learn the importance of identifying environmental factors that influence weight gain.
Individual consultations with patients are provided for meal planning. Most meal plans use meal replacements -- high quality, calorie-controlled nutritional products.
Physical Activity
A physically active lifestyle is an important component of health and weight management. Our physical therapists provide guidance in establishing an effective and safe physical activity routine that suits each patient.
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
The medical aspect of the Weight Management Program has three stages:
Stage I - Initial Weight Loss Basics
- 20 weekly group sessions.
- Medical monitoring.
Stage II - Sharpening Weight Management Skills
- 36 weekly group sessions.
- Medical monitoring.
Stage III - Long-Term Continuous Care
- Monthly group sessions with limited medical supervision.
- 12-month increments.
For more information on the medical weight management program, please call (314) 286-2080 or you can email us at weightmanagement@im.wustl.edu. |