Weight management is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less program offers a structured approach to achieving this goal. Developed by a team of professionals from various fields, this program focuses on evidence-based strategies for weight loss and maintenance. By emphasizing small, sustainable changes, it aims to help participants manage their weight effectively.
Program Development and Structure
The Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh
Less program was created by experts from public health, research, education, and medicine. These professionals brought their knowledge of physical activity, nutrition, and weight loss to develop a comprehensive curriculum. The program consists of 15 lessons that cover 12 evidence-based behaviors related to healthy eating and physical activity. These lessons are designed to teach participants how to make mindful choices and track their progress.
The curriculum does not prescribe a specific diet plan but instead encourages small, lifelong changes. Participants learn to eat fewer calories, increase their intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and control portion sizes. The program also emphasizes the importance of eating breakfast regularly, reducing calorie-containing beverages, and keeping a record of food and physical activity.
Theoretical Framework and Collaborations
The program is grounded in the theory of planned behavior, which serves as the framework for motivating participants to change their eating and physical activity habits. This theory suggests that individuals can be encouraged to adopt healthier behaviors by understanding the benefits and planning accordingly. The program's lessons incorporate mindfulness techniques to help participants become more aware of their eating habits and physical activity levels.
Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less is a collaborative effort involving several organizations. It is conducted in partnership with NC Cooperative Extension, NC State University, and the Physical Activity and Nutrition Branch of the NC Division of Public Health. Other collaborators include East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine and the State Health Plan in North Carolina for Teachers and State Employees.
Impact and Reach
The program has been implemented statewide, with local infrastructure offering onsite classes in various communities. Grant funding from the State Health Plan allows for classes in specific counties, while online classes are available to participants both within and outside North Carolina. Research on the program's outcomes shows that participants experience significant improvements in weight, body mass index, and waist circumference.
Participants also report increased confidence in their ability to eat healthily and be physically active. The program's emphasis on mindfulness and tracking behaviors has been associated with better weight loss success. As the program continues to expand, it offers a promising approach to weight management that is accessible to a wide audience.
