Choosing a Weight Program Wisely

Picking a weight program is like picking a driver for a long trip. You want a clear map and a trained driver.

A good program usually has three parts. It has a clear plan with plain steps. Its staff have real training.

Look for letters after a name, like CDCES (diabetes educator) or RDN (dietitian). Regular check-ins mean someone follows your progress.

Be careful with programs that promise fast or certain results. Be wary of a promise to get rid of diabetes for good. Also be wary of one plan said to fit everyone. Unclear prices or cancellation rules are another warning sign.

Advice to skip medical care is a red flag too. Losing more than 2 pounds a week without medical supervision can cost muscle. The weight may come back.

Ask whether the program works with your doctor. Online coaches usually cannot prescribe or change medical orders. A good coach works with your medical team, not in its place.

Tell the program every medicine you take. With some diabetes medicines, fast weight loss can cause low blood sugar. Ask your care team before you change how you eat or move.

Key takeaways

• A good program has a clear plan, qualified staff and regular check-ins.
• Fast or certain promises, and advice to skip medical care, are red flags.
• Ask whether a program works with your doctor and knows your medicines.

Try it

Ask a program you are considering for each staff member's full name and credential. Then check any certified diabetes educator in the ADCES directory at diabeteseducator.org.