WeightSmart
Weight Loss Program

Women’s Medical Group of Irvine’s WeightSmart Program is a comprehensive weight management program that goes beyond just weight issues. Through an in-depth evaluation of dietary and activity habits, our clinical team works closely with participants to identify areas of concern, as well as establish and maintain realistic changes that will endure over time.

The WeightSmart Program includes comprehensive laboratory testing and interpretation, EKG, waist circumference and body mass index evaluation. Participants will work closely with our certified family nurse practitioner and meet with our endocrinologist for evaluation of other possible causes of weight gain, including pre-diabetes and thyroid dysfunction. Program participants will also have an opportunity to consult with our licensed acupuncturist.

The Obesity Epidemic
According to the National Institutes of Health, the prevalence of being overweight and obesity in adults in the U.S. and worldwide has been steadily on the rise. From 1960 to 2004, the prevalence of overweight U.S. adults (ages 20-70) increased from 44.8% to 66%. Similarly, the prevalence of obesity during this same time period more than doubled among adults, rising from 13.3 to 32.1%, with most of this occurring since 1980. We are also seeing an alarming rise in the number of overweight and obese teens and adolescents.

Why is weight management important?
Studies show obesity and excess abdominal fat (fat concentrated around the mid-section) are associated with a 10-50% increased risk of death from all causes, as compared to that of healthy weight adults. Obesity is also associated with multiple health problems including:

٭ Heart Disease (including heart attack & coronary artery disease)
٭ Type 2 Diabetes
٭ High Blood Pressure
٭ Dyslipidemia (for example: high total cholesterol, LDL or triglycerides)
٭ Stroke
٭ Gallbladder Disease
٭ Osteoarthritis
٭ Sleep Apnea and other Respiratory Problems
٭ Certain Cancers (including endometrial, breast and colon)

Overweight vs. Obesity
Overweight is defined as an excess of body weight compared to set standards. Excess weight may come from muscle, bone, fat and/or water. Obesity refers specifically to an abnormally high proportion of body fat. A person can be overweight without being obese (such as an athlete or body builder with lots of muscle). However, many people who are overweight are also obese.

How can WeightSmart help?
Studies show that poor nutrition and physical inactivity are responsible for the epidemic rise in weight-related disease and death. The WeightSmart Program targets these specific lifestyle issues, working with you to obtain and sustain a healthier weight and an overall healthier you. No “stylized” diet is right for everyone. WeightSmart is a customized program adapted for YOUR specific needs to maximize your benefits and results.

Related Websites:

http://win.niddk.nih.gov/statistics
www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/obesity
www.heart.org