Selecting a Weight Loss Program

There are many different types of weight loss programs available. You need to decide what type of program is best for you.  Listed below are some of the criteria you should look for when selecting a weight loss program. 

Criteria to consider in evaluating a program:

• Recommends a healthy weight loss of no more than 2 pounds (1 kg) per week.
• Includes all four food groups and follows Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating.
• Provides at least 1200 calories per day for women and 1500 calories per day for men.
• Encourages regular enjoyable physical activity which is suited to your lifestyle and your physical condition.
• Employs qualified professionals, like doctors, Registered Dietitians and exercise physiologists.
• Does not use magical claims or high pressure salesmanship in any part of the program.
• The program is affordable and you can drop out without penalty.
• Provides information about costs, risks, and the estimated time frame for reaching your goals.
• Have maintenance programs that will help clients maintain their weight once they have achieved their goals.
• Provide flexibility to allow for personal choice.

Questions to ask the program:

Some programs may not collect this information, but it is still important to ask these questions.

• What percentage of people complete the program?
• What is the average weight loss among people who finish the program?
• What percentage of people maintain their weight loss at two years? At five years?
• What percentage of people have problems or side effects? What are they?

Is the program right for you?

Once you have decided that a program is appropriate, consider if the program is right for you.

• Will I be able to follow their diet?
• Is this the right cost for me?
• Will this program fit my lifestyle?
• Will I be able to manage the amount of change in lifestyle that this program will require?
• Will I be able to incorporate the activity required into my lifestyle?
• Do I see myself being successful in completing this program?

For health advice and information 24 hours a day, seven days a week, call Capital Health Link at 408-LINK (5465) or, outside the local calling area, call toll-free 1-866-408-LINK.

Disclaimer
Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright.
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. For more health advice call Capital Health Link at 780-408-LINK (5465) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In Alberta, call Toll-free: 1-866-408-LINK (5465)