Experts agree that the best way to reach a healthy weight is to follow a sensible eating plan and engage in regular physical activity. Weight-loss programs should encourage healthy behaviors that help you lose weight and that you can maintain over time. Safe and effective weight-lossprograms should include:

• Healthy eating plans that reduce calories but do not rule out specific foods or food groups

• Regular physical activity and/or exercise instruction

• Tips on healthy behavior changes that also consider your cultural needs

• Slow and steady weight loss of about ¾ to 2 pounds per week and not more than 3 pounds per week (weight loss may be faster at the start of a program)

• Medical care if you are planning to lose weight by following a special formula diet, such as a very-low-calorie diet

• A plan to keep the weight off after you have lost it

Ask Questions

Gather as much information as you can before deciding to join a program. Providers of weight-loss programs should be able to answer these questions:

• What does the weight-loss program consist of?

• What are the staff qualifications?

• Does the product or program carry any risks?

• How much does the program costs?

• What results do participants typically have?

• What does the weight-loss program consist of?

• Does the program offer individual counseling and/or group classes?

• Do you have to follow a specific meal plan or keep food records?

• Do you have to purchase special food, drugs, or supplements?

• Does the program encourage you to be physically active, follow a specific physical activity plan, or provide exercise instruction?

• Does the program provide information on how to make positive and healthy behavior changes?

• Is the program sensitive to your lifestyle and cultural needs?

• What are the staff qualifications?

• Who supervises the program?

• What type of weight management training, experience, education, and certifications does the staff have?

• Does the product or program carry any risks?

• Are there risks related to following the program’s eating or exercise plans?

• Are there risks related to using recommended drugs or supplements?

• Do participants talk with a medical professional?

• Does a medical professional oversee the program?

• Will the program providers work with your personal health care provider if you have a medical condition or are taking prescribed medications?

• How much does the program cost ?

• What is the total cost of the program?

• Are there recurring costs such as weekly attendance fees, costs of food and supplement purchases, etc?

• Are there additional fees for a follow-up program or to re-enter the program for follow-up after you lose weight?

• Are there additional fees for medical tests?

• What results do participants typically have?

• How much weight does an average participant lose and how long have they kept off all or part of their weight?

• Can the program provide references?

If you are interested in locating a weight-loss program in your area, ask your health care provider for a referral or contact your local hospital.

For additional general information, contact:

Weight-control Information Network (WIN) 1 WIN Way, Bethesda, MD 20892-3665, Toll-free: 1-877-9464627, (202) 828-1025, fax: (202) 828-1028, E-mail: win@info.niddk.nih.gov