Obesity has become a widespread epidemic not only in Australia but also around the world. With nearly two-thirds of Australian adults classified as overweight or obese, there is a pressing need for effective weight management strategies (OECD, 2017). The complex nature of obesity requires a comprehensive and individualised approach that addresses multiple factors contributing to unhealthy eating behaviours and sedentary lifestyles. While various interventions exist, this article focuses on the role of dietitians and the potential of mobile apps in promoting long-term, evidence-based, and non-judgmental weight control.
The importance of Dietitians in weight management.
Dietitians play a crucial role in weight management by providing personalised nutritional expertise, ongoing education, and emotional support. They not only assess and advise individuals but also help regulate new behaviours related to reduced food intake, increased exercise, and improved physiological and psychological health (Cummings et al., 2002). By understanding the complex interplay between external environmental factors and internal physiological processes, dietitians empower individuals to make informed choices about their diet, exercise, and overall lifestyle. Non-judgmental support and respect for the individual’s lived experiences are essential in facilitating long-term weight reduction and maintenance (Torti et al., 2017).
Weight loss and a sustainable management plan – the need for ongoing support.
Weight management should be viewed as a lifelong commitment rather than a temporary undertaking. Studies have shown that individuals express concerns about sustaining their new habits independently after completing a weight loss program (Webb et al., 2014). To address this need, holistic support that includes continued education, emotional support, and behaviour change interventions is crucial for long-term success (Lawford et al., 2021). Moreover, the social capital provided by a supportive community can significantly influence physical activity and weight management (Powell et al., 2015).
Therefore, ongoing support from dietitians and other healthcare professionals is essential for helping individuals maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Evidence-based approach to weight management – essential in an online app.
In the digital age, mobile apps have emerged as a popular tool for weight management. However, most apps currently available lack evidence-based approaches and rigorous reviews (Dounavi & Tsoumani, 2019). Mobile apps have the potential to revolutionise weight maintenance by providing self-empowerment, emotional support, and access to evidence-based information. By incorporating features that promote engagement, motivation, and simplicity, mobile apps can enhance the ease and effectiveness of weight control programs (Lawford et al., 2021). However, it is crucial for app designers and users to have access to evidence-based guidelines to ensure the quality and effectiveness of these apps.
Obesity – a non-judgemental approach to encourage self well-being.
Addressing the obesity epidemic requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach. Dietitians play a vital role in providing evidence-based, non-judgmental support for individuals seeking to manage their weight. Ongoing support, including education, emotional support, and behaviour change interventions, is crucial for long-term success. The potential of mobile apps in facilitating improved health outcomes is significant, but it is essential to ensure that these apps are based on evidence and designed to promote self-empowerment and emotional and physical well-being. By embracing a whole-person and whole-community approach, we can work towards a healthier future with reduced rates of overweight and obesity.
Everybody is unique | Every body is unique
ME for Me is a digital weight loss and management APP developed by Monique Etkind CEO and Co-founder of ME for Me.
- Monique is a highly respected, qualified and practising Nutritionist and Dietitian. “There is no universal diet that suits everyone. That is an underlying premise in the development of ME for Me. Everybody is unique. Every body is unique. The app provides personalised nutrition, individualised coaching…“You can control what you eat. This digital online app will educate, encourage and monitor your progress as you change to a healthier diet. A healthier you. A more confident you…”
- “Engagement and simplicity; personalised daily nutrition allocation (DNA); Meal Plan based on your food preferences matched to your DNA; daily coaching triggered by your diary; weekly coaching to support you to hold long term change… this app is unique because you are unique.”
- Created by somebody who understands the struggle of weight loss and management and is here to help – 24 hours a day through a health changing digital app.
Note: This article is a summary and synthesis of the provided literature review by Associate Professor Judith Flanagan. The content has been rephrased and structured to fit the requirements of a mainstream article on the topic of dietitian management for improved health outcomes and the role of mobile apps in healthy weight control.
Additional information has been provided Monique Etkind CEO and Co-founder of ME for Me. Monique is also a highly respected qualified and practising Nutritionist and Dietitian.
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