Supporting lifestyle change
By using LighterLife’s behavioural-change
techniques, patients have the opportunity to develop a mindset more
conducive to making the fundamental lifestyle changes vital for
maintaining a healthier weight.
More active, more often
The importance of being ‘more active, more
often’ and a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate physical activity at
least five days a week are emphasised throughout all LighterLife’s
programmes.
Formerly obese patients are encouraged to be
moderately active for 60-90 minutes a day (Department of Health,
2004) to help avoid weight regain.
Encouragement on how to safely increase levels
of physical activity and form new exercise habits is given, and
motivational issues are explored.
Information is provided on the importance
of:
- Setting realistic goals for activity.
- Undertaking a combination of stamina,
strength, flexibility and mobility exercises.
- More everyday movement such as walking, as
well as structured exercise such as sports.
Balanced, healthy diet
In the weight-management
stage of the
programme, the Food Standards Agency’s eatwell
plate forms the
basis of the healthy, balanced, varied and sustainable diet that
patients are encouraged to adopt.
Advice is given on tailoring choices to
individual needs, including healthier food choices and guidance on
preparation, servings and portions for different food groups.
This is consistent with recommendations in NICE clinical guideline 43 that ‘dietary changes
should be individualised, tailored to food preferences and allow
for flexible approaches to reducing calorie intake’.