Attention to nutrition and exercise is most important for optimal health. I am one of 10 family physicians who practises in a busy setting in the northeastern portion of Mississauga, Ont., not too far from the core of Toronto. Frustrated with my inability to get my patients to reform to a healthier lifestyle, I decided to do something about it. I knew I could not do it alone and that a certain amount of expertise was needed. I recruited the help of a couple of dietitians, a fitness adviser and a psychologist and together we put together a series of 24 workshops geared toward enhancing one's health.
Most people enrol because they do want to lose some weight.
We point out to our clients that if one achieves optimal health they will automatically settle at a weight that is most suitable for them. More and more people are looking for such a no-nonsense approach. As well, this program is ideal for those at risk of developing diabetes, hypertension or hyperlipidemia as well as for the person fed up with living the lifestyle of a couch potato. One of the workshops includes a gathering of clinical studies which give evidence to the health benefits of improved nutrition and increased activity. So far our clients have taken to the program very well.