The weight management program involves the utilization of strategies for changing health behaviors related to weight by modifying participant’s eating habits and emphasizing the benefits of exercise for weight reduction. This results in reducing the risk of acquiring obesity related diseases and conditions.

The program incorporates concepts from health behavior change that results in fundamental changes in risk promoting behaviors and the initiation of health habits that leads to improved health.

Participant would be asked to keep a food dairy and an activity journal. Instruction would be given addressing the reasons why people are overweight, the myths of obesity, elements of a sound weight loss program, facts to know about weight loss, understanding the food guide pyramid, and elements of meal planning.

Tools would be given that address the eating behavior, how to deal with thoughts and feelings related to eating, some alternative activities to eating, and tips related to food choices. Information is given on label reading, potential triggers to eating, and activities that promote weight loss.

Six month and 1 year follow-up can be done to reinforce new behaviors generated during the course. The information would provide feedback to assist us in determining the effectiveness of the course, improves deficient areas, and provides epidemiological information regarding the long-term progress of course participants.