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New Direction® VLCD
The New Direction Program is a medically supervised Very Low Calorie Diet (800 kcal/day) with an intensive behavioral component for individuals with at least 40 lbs to lose (men at least 50). In addition to weight management, this program addresses patients' overall health by reducing their medically related risk factors.
A physician lead multidisciplinary team of health professionals emphasizes weight management skills during group sessions; these same skills are highlighted in the patient education modules. Patients have been found to improve psychosocial measures of self-esteem, personal power, body appearance, body functioning, self-control, task-oriented coping, and a decrease in emotional coping. In addition, statistically significant decreases in blood pressure, cholesterol, total cholesterol/HDL ratio and triglycerides also were found.
New Direction VLCD Details
- A comprehensive screening process determines patient readiness and the needs of potential patients
- Patients are guided through a three-phase goal achievement process: Reducing (Weight Loss), Adapting (Refeeding), and Sustaining (Maintenance). For more details, click here.
- Full fast utilizing nutritionally complete, high protein, low calorie products as the sole source of nutrition during the Reducing Phase
- Ketogenic program for individuals with a BMI of >30 or 27-30 with co-morbidities
- Aggressive weight loss (average 3-5 pounds/week)
- Appropriate for pre-surgical weight loss (or beverage only post-surgically)
- Weekly professional and peer groups
- Structured skill development tools for group leaders responsible for behavior modification, nutrition and exercise
- A behavioral assessment by qualified mental health professional may be included in treatment for patients needing psychological care