A new weight & lifestyle programme developed by Croí, is proving to be an outstanding success. The CroiMyBalance Programme offers a new evidence-based approach to sustainable weight loss and lifestyle management aimed at those wishing to reduce their risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and obesity. The programme has evolved from years of working with individuals who struggle with their weight or have medical risk factors such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
Designed and delivered by an award-winning team of healthcare experts in medical risk factor management; diet & nutrition; exercise & fitness, the CroíMyBalance Programme is delivering results in terms of weight loss and risk factor management such as lowered cholesterol and diabetes control.
The CroíMyBalanceProgramme runs over 8 weeks (1 hour per week) with follow-up at 3, 6 and 12 months, and provides expert guidance on all aspects of healthy living and lifestyle change, which includes practical advice on weight, cholesterol, diabetes and blood pressure control. During the 8-week programme, each person is encouraged to keep a food diary and a weekly ‘weigh-in’ is optional. Also, as part of the programme, all participants undergo a lifestyle screening at initial assessment, end-of-programme and at 1 year which includes measurement of blood pressure, diabetes risk score, weight, body mass index, waist circumference, Mediterranean diet adherence score and physical activity levels.
A recent evaluation of the CroíMyBalance Programme has demonstrated significant weight loss and improvements in other risk factors such as blood pressure, diabetes, activity levels and adherence to the Mediterranean style diet. These improvements are observed at end-of-programme with results being sustained and even further improved at 1 year assessment. Participants on the programme are achieving, on average, in excess of 16 pounds weight loss and a reduction of 4 inches in waist circumference. Furthermore, there is a reduction in their diabetes risk score which estimates their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in the next 10 years.
Discussing the outcomes of the recent evaluation, our Specialist Cardiac and Weight Dietitian, Claire Kerins said “The CroíMyBalance Programme is the first of its kind in Ireland and the results demonstrate the effectiveness of a lifestyle focused weight management programme. To-date, the majority of commercial weight loss programmes focus on dietary aspects alone without incorporating exercise and behavioural changes. She went on to say “The key to a healthy lifestyle is good nutrition, regular exercise and effective stress management. In this context, our programme addresses issues as varied as the quality and quantity of sleep, hydration, fitness levels and portion control. The CroíMyBalance Programme provides long-term support and motivation to assist individuals in achieving their nutritional and lifestyle goals for optimum heart health”.
The next Croí MyBalance Programmes will take place in the Croí Heart & Stroke Centre, Newcastle, Galway on:
Book online – Monday 25th April 11am-12pm – FULL
Book online – Tuesday 26th April 6.30-7.30pm – FULL
Book online – Wednesday 12th May 3.00 – 4.00pm CANCELLED
Other weight and lifestyle programmes will take place in various locations around the West of Ireland. The next programme is due to commence in Lackagh Parish Centre, Co. Galway on Wednesday the 27th of April 6.30-7.30pm. Similarly, a new programme is due to commence in Ballinasloe, Co. Galway on Thursday the 5th of May 6.30-7.30pm.
As places are limited, pre-booking is essential by calling Croí on 091-544310 or book online at www.croi.ie.