A long-term, individualised weight loss programme for lasting change

Evidence-based approach for lasting change

Yazen’s approach is based on science. Research consistently shows that behavioural changes, reinforced over a longer period, lead to better weight loss maintenance and overall health.^1-5,12-13 Our multidisciplinary programme is designed based on this evidence, ensuring that our patients benefit from the most effective, research-backed methods for sustainable weight management.

Yazen recommends a long-term weight loss management programme focused on behavioural changes because we believe in sustainable, healthy lifestyle changes rather than short-term fixes. Our philosophy centres around our patients' holistic well-being, addressing not just the physical aspect of weight loss, but also the mental, emotional, and behavioural components crucial for long-term success. The Yazen programme is backed by evidence clearly showing that a long-term programme, including behavioural counselling, is beneficial for sustainable and healthy weight loss over time.^1,2 Here is why we, at Yazen emphasise these behavioural changes over a longer period:

Holistic approach to health 

We view health as comprehensive wellbeing that includes physical, mental, and emotional aspects. Studies have shown that behavioural interventions are central to addressing the root causes of changed habits, making them more likely to succeed in long-term weight maintenance.³ Focusing on behaviour changes rather than just diet and exercise, we help patients develop a more balanced and mindful relationship with food, activity, and self-care.

Sustainable and realistic lifestyle integration

Quick fixes and crash diets often lead to burnout and weight regain. Yazen advocates for gradual, sustainable changes that can be realistically integrated into daily life.⁴ A long-term programme allows our patients to adapt to these changes progressively, making them a natural part of their routines. Research has shown that this approach ensures long-term change, leading to lasting health benefits rather than temporary results, reinforcing the importance of sustainability in weight management programmes.^1,2

Personalised support and continuous guidance

At Yazen, we recognise that every person's journey is unique. Our long-term programme is designed to provide continuous, personalised support tailored to each patient's specific needs, challenges, and goals. Behavioural changes are deeply personal, and a longer time frame allows for more effective customisation and adjustment of strategies to fit different lifestyles. It has been shown that personalisation and continuous support in weight management programmes significantly improve long-term outcomes.^5-7

A number of  biological factors make weight loss challenging for many people. Experts at Yazen, who specialise in obesity medicine, assist patients in determining the underlying reasons for their weight gain and customise an individual treatment plan accordingly. All prescriptions are given based on assessment by a medical doctor, who chooses the most suitable medication for the patient's needs, not advocating any specific medication over another. 

Focus on mental and emotional well-being

We understand that successful weight loss is not just about the body but also the mind. Emotional eating, stress, and negative self-image are common barriers to weight loss. Our emphasis on behavioural changes helps patients identify and address these psychological challenges, promoting a healthier mindset and emotional resilience. A positive mental state is as important as physical health in achieving and maintaining weight loss. Studies have shown that addressing psychological challenges, such as emotional eating and negative self-image, is critical for successful weight loss, highlighting the importance of mental and emotional wellbeing in such programmes.^1,4

Building lifelong skills for health management

Our goal n is to empower patients with the skills and knowledge needed to manage their health for life. Focusing on behavioural changes over a long period, our patients learn essential skills like effective stress management, mindful eating, meal planning, and setting realistic goals. These skills are crucial, not just for losing weight but also for maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle long after the programme ends, according to a large number of surveys and studies.^7,8,9

Promoting a positive relationship with food and the body

Many weight loss programmes focus on restriction and deprivation, which can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food and body image issues. Flexible dieting is shown to be a more sustainable approach than restriction.^10,11 At Yazen, we promote a positive, balanced approach to eating. Our behavioural focus encourages patients to listen to their bodies, understand their hunger cues, and appreciate and enjoy food, rather than live by restrictions. 

Addressing root causes and breaking unhealthy patterns

Unhealthy habits often stem from deep-rooted behavioural patterns. Our long-term programme allows time to delve into these patterns, identify triggers, and develop effective coping mechanisms. We believe that addressing these underlying issues is key to achieving lasting change. By focusing on behavioural changes, we help clients break free from the cycle of yo-yo dieting and develop healthier, more sustainable habits.¹² 

Preventing setbacks and encouraging progress

We understand that the journey to better health is not always smooth. Challenges, stalls, and slips are normal parts of any effort to change habits. At Yazen, we provide ongoing support to help patients handle these obstacles. A long-term programme offers enough space to build confidence, learn from experiences, and keep moving towards goals without losing motivation.¹³

Creating a community of support and accountability

Behavioural change is more effective when done within a supportive community.¹⁴ At Yazen, we offer a community environment where patients can share experiences, support each other, and stay motivated. The long-term programme allows patients to build meaningful relationships that create accountability, which further reinforces their commitment to a healthier lifestyle.  

Achieve a healthier, more balanced life.

Yazen recommends a long-term weight loss management programme focused on behavioural changes because we are committed to helping our patients achieve lasting health and well-being. By emphasising sustainable habits, emotional well-being, personalised support, and evidence-based strategies, we empower individuals to take control of their health in a meaningful and enduring way. Our approach is more than just losing weight; it's about empowering our patients to achieve a healthier, more balanced life.

References:

1. Wadden et al. 2020. Lifestyle Modification Approaches for the Treatment of Obesity in Adults. Am Psychol. 2020 ; 75(2): 235–251. https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0000517
2. Ahern et al. 2017. Extended and standard duration weight-loss programme referrals for adults in primary care (WRAP): a randomised controlled trial. The Lancet, Volume 389, Issue 10085, 2214 - 2225. https://doi.org/10.1016%2FS0140-6736(17)30647-5
3. Olateju et al. 2021. Role of Behavioral Interventions in the Management of Obesity. Cureus 13(9):e18080. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.18080
4. Teixeira et al. 2010. Mediators of Weight Loss and Weight Loss Maintenance in Middle‐aged Women. Obesity (2010) 18, 725–735. https://doi.org/10.1038/oby.2009.281
5. Spreckley et al. 2023. Primary care-led weight-management intervention: qualitative insights into patient experiences at one-year follow-up. International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-being VOL. 18, 2256669. https://doi.org/10.1080/17482631.2023.2256669
6. Luig et al. 2018. Personalising obesity assessment and care planning in primary care: patient experience and outcomes in everyday life and health. Clinical Obesity 8, 411–423. https://doi.org/10.1111/cob.12283
7. Butryn et al. 2011. Behavioral Treatment of Obesity. Psychiatr Clin North Am. 34(4): 841–859. https://doi.org/10.1080/03630242.2024.2374783
8. Asbjørnsen et al. 2023. Digital behaviour change intervention for weight loss maintenance in adults with obesity: a feasibility pilot study of eCHANGE. Behaviour & Information Technology https://doi.org/10.1080/0144929X.2024.2399299
9. Grave et al. 2024. The Benefit of Healthy Lifestyle in the Era of New Medications to Treat Obesity. Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity. 17:227–230. https://doi.org/10.2147/DMSO.S447582
10. Sairanen et al. 2014. Flexibility in weight management. Eating Behaviors.15(2):218-224. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eatbeh.2014.01.008
11. Hays et al. 2008. Aspects of eating behaviours "disinhibition" and "restraint" are related to weight gain and BMI in women. Obesity (Silver Spring).16(1):52–8. https://doi.org/10.1038/oby.2007.12
12. Gardner et al. 2021. Breaking habits or breaking habitual behaviours? Old habits as a neglected factor in weight loss maintenance. Appetite. 162(7):105183. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2021.105183
13. Hall et al. 2018. Maintenance of lost weight and long-term management of obesity. Med Clin North Am. 102(1): 183–197. https://doi.org/10.1016%2Fj.mcna.2017.08.012
14. Matthews et al. 2024. Supporting Sustainable Health Behavior Change: The Whole is Greater Than the Sum of Its Part. Mayo Clin Proc Inn Qual Out. 8(3):263-275. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2023.10.002

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