Successful Weight Loss Therapy Programs Rely On Behavioral Therapy And Lifestyle Changes
Posted on: 19 July 2023
For many people, weight loss is a complicated endeavor requiring a multi-faceted approach to experience safe results that can be sustained long-term. It requires adjusting the diet to incorporate nutrient-dense foods and adjusting intake to a healthy, sustainable level. Most programs also focus on increasing physical activity to a safe, manageable level appropriate for any preexisting conditions.
According to information published by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the weight-loss programs with the highest rates of patient success include at least 14 sessions of behavioral treatment over a six-month period, and these treatments are always led by qualified staff. An approach targeting multiple factors contributing to weight gain helps patients become better informed and aware of their bodies and more mindful of a full range of health-influencing factors.
What is behavioral treatment?
Behavioral treatment for weight loss zeroes in on food consumption and activity but approaches it from an action-based standpoint. According to John Hopkins Medicine, behavioral therapy includes working with a therapist on these factors by changing environmental factors at home that can promote overeating, setting attainable goals, and creating exercise plans. In addition to one-on-one consultation, behavioral treatment can also feature group sessions for additional support.
Therapy can be accomplished in person or take place online with a qualified professional. In the beginning, sessions are generally more frequent, and after skills are mastered, they may turn into periodic check-ins. They can also be ramped up if a patient is experiencing a weight loss plateau or a progress reversal. Because outside stressors and other health conditions can impact weight, the therapist works with patients to identify any other issues and helps them seek appropriate treatment for those alongside setting weight loss goals.
The long-term objective is healthy, sustainable weight loss, which can mean slower progress than trendy diets, but the progress is achieved through small changes that are more easily maintained long-term. In short, behavioral therapy promotes lasting lifestyle changes conducive to losing weight.
What are the other components of a weight loss program?
A multi-focus weight loss program also needs to tackle contributing factors to weight gain outside of diet and exercise. Inadequate sleep can be a major driver of weight gain according to a Harvard Health Publishing summary of studies. Inadequate sleep impacts the level of hormones responsible for controlling food intake and feelings of satiety. This encourages excess food consumption and leads to choosing higher-calorie foods.
Contact a healthcare professional to learn more about weight loss therapy.
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