Local heart and stroke charity, Croí, has found its recently launched evidence-based approach to sustainable weight loss and lifestyle management, aimed at those wishing to reduce their risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and obesity, has delivered impressive results for participants.
The CroíMyBalance Programme has evolved from years of working with people who struggle with their weight or have medical risk factors such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. It is designed and delivered by an award-winning team of healthcare experts in medical risk factor management, diet and nutrition, and exercise and fitness.
The programme runs over eight weeks for one hour a week, with follow-ups after three, six, and 12 months, and provides expert guidance on all aspects of healthy living and lifestyle change, which includes practical advice on weight, cholesterol, diabetes, and blood pressure control.
During the programme, each person is encouraged to keep a food diary and a weekly weigh-in is optional. Participants also undergo a lifestyle screening at initial assessment, end-of-programme, and after one year, which includes measurement of blood pressure, diabetes risk score, weight, body mass index, waist circumference, Mediterranean diet adherence score, and physical activity levels.
A recent evaluation of the programme found that participants had achieved significant weight loss, improvements in waist circumference measurement, greater adherence to the Mediterranean style diet, and overall improvements in fitness levels. Participants are achieving, on average, in excess of 8lb weight loss and a reduction of two inches in waist circumference. There is also a reduction in their diabetes risk score, which estimates their risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the next 10 years.
“The CroíMyBalance Programme is the first of its kind in Ireland and the results demonstrate the effectiveness of a lifestyle focused weight management programme,” said Croí specialist dietitian, Claire Kerins. “To date, the majority of commercial weight loss programmes focus on dietary aspects alone without incorporating exercise and behavioural changes. The key to a healthy lifestyle is good nutrition, regular exercise, and effective stress management. In this context, our programme addresses issues as varied as the quality and quantity of sleep, hydration, fitness levels, and portion control. The CroíMyBalance Programme provides long-term support and motivation to assist individuals in achieving their nutritional and lifestyle goals for optimum heart health.”
The next CroíMyBalance Programmes will take place in the Croí Heart and Stroke Centre on: Monday September 14 from 11am to 12 noon; and on Tuesday October 13 from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. As places are limited, booking is essential. To book call Croí on 091 544310.
