The World Of Weight Loss Programs

Obesity is a serious health problem that affects millions of people. Researchers have found that people who are over their ideal body weight are more likely to suffer from heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and numerous other health conditions. Fortunately, there are a number of weight loss programs available to help people safely reach their goal weight. Below are three of the different types of weight loss programs:
Do it yourself program

Do it yourself weight loss programs are very popular because they are relatively inexpensive. A DIY program is where a person comes up with his own diet program based on the information that he finds on the internet, magazine, books and other resources. People who follow DIY programs often form support groups, which can help motivate others to lose weight.
These type of weight loss programs can be effective. However, most people will get better results if they work with a professional who is knowledgeable in the areas of nutrition and exercise.
Non-clinical programs

Non clinical weight loss programs are where counselors work together to help a person lose weight. It is important to note that these counselors may or may not have training in the areas of diet and exercise. These type of programs may also use pamphlets and books that are prepared by health care professionals. Non-clinical programs may also require that people take supplements along with their diet and exercise regime. Jenny Craig is an example of a non-clinical program.

Clinical programs

Patients are supervised by a licensed health care provider during a clinical weight loss program. Three examples of clinical weight loss programs include: very low -calorie diets, weight loss drugs and surgery. Very low-calorie diets have to be followed under the supervision of a health care provider because they can cause serious side effects. A person who is on a low-calorie diet usually consumes less than 800 calories per day.

A health care provider may also recommend that a person take weight loss drugs. There are a number of drugs on the market that can help burn fat and speed up the metabolism. These type of drugs can only be prescribed by a licensed health care provider and are not approved for long-term use.

Surgery is a last resort. A physician will usually not elect to perform surgery unless all other attempts to lose weight have failed. Liposuction and gastric bypass are two examples of weight loss surgery.

Gaining weight is easy, but losing it is a lot more difficult. Starting a weight loss program can help a person shed those extra pounds. A do it yourself weight loss program may be the right choice for a person who only has a couple of pounds to lose. Those who need additional help losing weight may chose to join a non-clinical program. People who are severely overweight and have health problems will usually have to join a clinical program. A health care provider can help a person choose the program that is right for him.

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