A new weight management programme being run by the heart and stroke charity Croi will feature regular lifestyle screening.
The course, which will be held at its centre in Moyola Lane in Newcastle and will begin at the end of month, is described as a scientifically proven approach to sustainable weight loss.
The charity’s health team, which designed and will deliver the eight week programme, say it does not include any gimmicks or fad diets. It will help people lose weight by making small changes to their lifestyle.
One of the key elements of the initiative is follow-up and motivational support at three, six and 12 months.
The programme will provide participants with expert advice and guidance on all aspects of healthy eating, including topics such as: exploring your relationship with food; making healthy choices when shopping; understanding food labels and controlling portion sizes.
There is a special focus on lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, sleep and stress management. Participants also receive expert advice on the management of cholesterol, blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.
During the programme people are encouraged to keep a food diary. A weekly weigh-in is optional. All participants will have lifestyle screening at the initial assessment, at the end of the programme and at one year. This includes measurement of blood pressure, weight, body mass index, waist circumference, mediterranean diet score and physical activity levels.
Speaking about the initiative Croí specialist dietitian, Claire Kerins said heart disease and stroke remains the number one cause of death and disability in Ireland.
She went on to say that to date participants on its weight management programmes are achieving, on average, in excess of nine pounds weight loss per person. This means they are shedding the pounds as per the recommended weight loss guideline of one to two per week.
“These programmes are being very positively received; with participants acknowledging that they are providing the right mix of information, support and motivation required in order to successfully lose weight and make lasting positive changes to their eating habits,” said Ms Kerins.
Places are available on the upcoming eight week course which runs from Monday January 26 (11am to noon ) and Tuesday January 27 (6.30pm to 7.30pm ) at the Croí heart and stroke centre, Moyola Lane, Newcastle. To book a place on the €120 course or to find out more about the programme log on to www.croi.ie or telephone (091 ) 544310.
