The obesity treatment program offered by the Primary Health Care Service in Växjö, Sweden, lasts for one year.
Participants initially meet every week and later once a month.
They also receive individual follow-up throughout the program, according to a press release from Region Kronoberg provided to VIA.
The program is not only about diet and weight loss. Participants also work on physical activity, stress management, sleep, and the habits that influence their daily lives.
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Support along the way
The treatment begins with a period during which participants use meal replacements.
According to Region Kronoberg, research shows that rapid weight loss at the beginning of treatment can make it easier to maintain positive results over the long term.
The group sessions give participants the opportunity to share experiences and support one another.
They also learn more about topics such as hunger, satiety, and the mechanisms that influence their everyday choices.
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The goal is to improve both health and quality of life, Region Kronoberg states.
Results after one year
Participants lost an average of 16 kilograms during the program.
One year after completing the treatment, 76 percent had maintained a weight loss of at least 10 percent.
According to Region Kronoberg, the findings suggest that a combination of structured support, regular follow-up, and a focus on lasting lifestyle changes can help many people maintain their weight loss over the long term.
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