For many people, losing weight in a healthy and sustainable way can be frustrating and difficult. For people who have been trying unsuccessfully to lose weight, it can also be painfully isolating.

“People often know what they need to do, but they need support unraveling the lifelong habits that get in the way,” says Kayla Roland, outpatient registered dietitian with Winona Health, a community healthcare system in southeastern Minnesota.

In order to help more people with weight challenges, Winona Health and Blue Plus (the HMO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota) have teamed up to extend the reach of Winona Health's Healthy Weight for Life program.

While this type of weight loss therapy has been a covered benefit for Medicare beneficiaries for the past decade, this marks the first time Blue Plus members can participate. To qualify for the program – which is offered at no-cost to participants − Blue Plus members must be age 10 to 64 and have a body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or greater or a medical diagnosis of obesity.

What does success look like?

Research shows that even losing 5 to 10% of your total body weight is likely to produce measurable health benefits.

“Weight loss can significantly improve chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high A1C and more,” says Kayla. “Anyone can make an appointment to see a dietitian. But a referral into this program is a longer commitment to something sustainable. The longevity and sustainability really make an impact.”

Healthy Weight for Life participants set specific, attainable goals in partnership with their dietitian. For patients having completed the entire program, the average weight loss is between 11 and 12 pounds. Participants are able to sustain their weight loss as well, which can go a long way to helping them lose more weight if they choose.

A program built on Intensive Behavioral Therapy

The term “Intensive Behavioral Therapy” (IBT) may sound scary or intimidating, but it just refers  to a course of focused treatment that can help with measurable behavioral change over a set period of time. Healthy Weight for Life is built on the IBT model.

“IBT is about exploring why we do certain things and putting actionable goals in place,” says Kayla. “It’s not just ‘an apple is healthier than potato chips,’ it’s a lot more education and having dedicated resources available.”

“People often know what they need to do, but they need support unraveling the lifelong habits that get in the way," Kayla adds.

One-on-one support

Healthy Weight for Life participants work with a registered dietitian to create a tailored approach for reasonable weight loss and health goals. Patients can also bring family or friends to appointments for support and encouragement.

“Working with a dietitian is very helpful as they give you a lot of good tools,” says Glenda Brommerich, a participant in the program.

The year-long Healthy Weight for Life program starts with weekly visits for a month, then gradually tapers down to bi-weekly and monthly check-ins. The longer duration of the program allows people the time needed for consistent and sustained reinforcement, as well as the ability to evolve their goals as they make progress. Patients and dietitians work as a team to learn and build confidence so each patient can be successful on their own.

Glenda found value in the programs’ resources and lists that she posted on her refrigerator for quick reference. She says portion sizes and balance have been a focus for her, as no foods are strictly off-limits.

“I had seen a dietitian elsewhere before, but this program really clicked,” says Glenda. “Winona Health is close to home and they treat you like family. They took a personal interest, and they take great care of me.”

“It’s very rewarding to say, ‘I’ve got this,’” says Kayla. “They go out on their own eventually and feel confident in their choices.”

Keri Denstad, another outpatient registered dietitian with Winona Health, says patients are often surprised by the program and pleased with its results.

“They expect to come in and be told they can’t eat their favorite foods, but they leave feeling reassured that no one is taking away foods,” says Keri. “We’re just working together to make realistic and educated lifestyle changes – portion control, balance, ways to cope with emotional eating and more. It’s not a strict diet, it’s an individual approach and we find what works for them.”

Visits with a dietitian can take place face-to-face or virtually, it’s the support and accountability that makes a world of difference for participants.

Both Kayla and Keri agree it can be difficult to say goodbye to their patients when they have graduated from the program, but it’s incredibly rewarding.

“I’m confident they can do it without me, and they are too,” says Kayla.

For more information

Blue Plus members in the Winona area can visit a Winona Health provider to be referred into the Healthy Weight for Life program. Blue Plus members must be age 10 to 64 and have a body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or greater or a medical diagnosis of obesity. For more information, visit www.winonahealth.org/HWFL or call (507) 453-3749.

Not in the Winona area? Ask your primary care physician about Intensive Behavioral Therapy and what resources might be available to you.