|  | Diet Nutrition | Weight Loss

Residential Treatment for Obesity

Residential treatment for obesity or immersion-style treatment is provided in a live-in treatment or rehabilitation center. This setting provides structure and intensive therapies to address the causes of obesity. There is support from both staff and peers and removal from outside stressors and temptations.

  1. Features

    • The full scale, medically managed in house treatment typically includes diet, exercise, medication and cognitive behavioral therapy. It is important to correct nutritional deficiencies and food allergies. The psychological issues are also addressed. Consistent with overeating are issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders and boredom. Many programs also include naturopathy, art, meditation and acupuncture.

    Benefits

    • The immersion style of the treatment can help obese people achieve weight loss that is medically significant. It provides the structure and support needed to improve health considerably in a given amount of time. According to Duke University School of Medicine, which has conducted clinical studies at its residential obesity treatment facility, this method is a viable alternative to surgical intervention.

    Results

    • Patients are able to successfully make lifestyle changes that last. Duke University reported that a year after its four-week program, 80 percent of participants maintained their lifestyle changes and continued weight loss.

    Effects

    • The effects of four weeks at a residential facility include: 6 to 7 percent weight loss, increased flexibility and energy, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, lower blood sugar, improved eating habits and sleep habits, decreased need for medication, and improvement in mood, self-image and self-confidence. Participants also had an increased activity level, and increased awareness of overeating triggers.

    Drawbacks

    • The obstacle to treatment for most patients is cost, which insurance companies do not pay for. Claims analyses by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina found that obese patients cost at least 30 percent more in claims payouts than normal-weight patients.

Weight Loss - Related Articles