Dispelling Myths about Medical Weight Loss Programs

It’s probably safe to say anyone reading this has struggled with weight issues at one time or another — perhaps even right now. You’re not alone! At any given time roughly half the adults in the United States are trying to lose weight. Although there are many reasons that people watch their diet, such as improved health or allergies, simply trying to lose weight is by far the top reason.

But even when we’re motivated, losing weight is hard. A Google search of “top diets” instantaneously yielded over 86 million results! A search of “top weight loss programs” didn’t reach quite that number, but the findings were so much more interesting: metabolism trackers, food sensitivity kits, weight loss drops (?!) and bone broth to name just a few — all for the low, low price of several hundred dollars each. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to weight loss; but with so many options, where to even start? We’ll start by looking at one option: medically prescribed meal replacements as part of a structured program.

New Direction products, for example, are and scientifically-based and use the highest quality ingredients. They exceed the recommendations established by the National Academy of Sciences National Research Council and three daily servings of New Direction products supply 100% of RDI of vitamins and minerals. (RDI stands for ‘Reference Daily Intake’ — the labeling that’s used on food products to indicate its nutritional value.) In addition, the carbohydrates, fiber, fats, acids and other macro-and micronutrients used are selected so that they absorb at different rates to maintain optimal protein levels.

The safety and quality of meal replacement products make them a leading choice for doctors and weight loss programs offering medically-supervised programs. Evidence supporting the success of meal replacements has increased notably in medical journals, even more so over the past 10+ years. In addition to initial weight loss, research has found significant health benefits including lower cholesterol, blood pressure and blood glucose, cardiovascular improvement, and the reduction or elimination of the need for diabetes medication.

Additional advantages of meal replacements versus other types of weight loss diets are the convenience of having prepared meals, portability and the reduced feelings of hunger, which can lead to greater compliance. In short, the medical community and users of the products support the use of today’s meal replacements as a viable weight loss method.

As noted, we all have our own needs, preferences and goals, so what works for one person may not work for another. If you’ve gotten “stuck” on your weight loss journey, or if your tried-and-true diet no longer offers the same results, talk to your doctor about options that are right for you. To learn more about the New Direction Program, click here.