Key elements of treating obesity, a study about a weight loss and management

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine recognized Jenny Craig as a potential treatment against obesity through its weight loss and weight management program.

Further, the study “Mechanisms, Pathophysiology, and Management of Obesity” underscores the key elements of treating obesity which include live counseling, a low-calorie diet, physical activity and behavior modification – all of which are fundamental elements of the Jenny Craig program. Obesity is a leading cause of chronic diseases.

Within the study, researchers Dr. Heymsfield and Dr. Wadden provide a thorough review of the causes, health consequences and treatment of obesity. Their review underscores the complexity of the condition and the challenge its epidemic proportions present to the healthcare system.

“We are gratified that Jenny Craig was specifically named as a commercial program for physician referral. The study is further validation of the importance of regular contact with a trained counselor to provide behavioral strategies, set goals and engage in problem solving for both weight loss and weight maintenance. All of these are key components of our one-on-one personalized approach,” said Monty Sharma, CEO of Jenny Craig.

In particular, the study references that a commercial weight loss program, such as Jenny Craig, can be prescribed by physicians if the program’s safety and efficacy have been reported in peer-reviewed journals as is the case with Jenny Craig.  According to obesity researcher and Jenny Craig Science Advisor Frank Greenway, said: “Most physicians recognize obesity as a chronic disease. They recommend diet and exercise for weight management, but need referral resources to support their patients to succeed. The highly respected New England Journal of Medicine recommends that referrals be made to weight loss programs that have evidence of safe and effective weight loss published in high-quality medical journals. Only two programs were mentioned as fulfilling that criteria and Jenny Craig was one of those.”

The Jenny Craig program features approximately 2,500 consultants worldwide who provide one-on-one personal support and education on portion control, healthy eating, physical activity and the behavioral skills to achieve a balanced, healthy lifestyle.  Jenny Craig consultants work individually with each member to identify their unique strengths, challenges, personal goals and motivators in order to create unique weekly meal and activity plans that fit individual needs. Members follow customized menus which include more than 100 menu items, as well as learn eating strategies such as adding Fresh & Free Additions to help with satiety.