Weight Management

Your weight is a balancing act, and calories are part of that equation. Fad diets may promise you that counting carbs or eating a mountain of grapefruit will make the pounds drop off. But when it comes to weight loss, it's calories that count. Weight loss comes down to burning more calories than you take in. You can do that by reducing extra calories from food and beverages, and increasing calories burned through physical activity.

Once you understand that equation, you're ready to set your weight-loss goals and make a plan for reaching them. Remember, you don't have to do it alone. Talk to your doctor, family and friends for support. Ask yourself if now is a good time and if you're ready to make some necessary changes. Also, plan smart: Anticipate how you'll handle situations that challenge your resolve and the inevitable minor setbacks.

If you have serious health problems because of your weight, your doctor may suggest weight-loss surgery or medications for you. In this case, you and your doctor will need to thoroughly discuss the potential benefits and the possible risks.

But don't forget the bottom line: The key to successful weight loss is a commitment to making indefinite changes in your diet and exercise habits. Read more...

Resources & Tools

• Weight Watchers at Work - Contact us for information on Weight Watchers sessions at your location. 
  • Weight Watchers Lunchtime Tips
• One-on-One Telephonic Weight Management Coaching through MHN (Employee EAP): 1-800-242-6220 
• FREE Phone Apps:
  • My Fitness Pal - Log your daily food and exercise totals, and the app tracks caloric intake/calories burned. Includes weight tracking and barcode scanning functionality.
  • Lose It! - Log your daily food and exercise totals, and the app tracks caloric intake/calories burned. Includes weight tracking, barcode scanning functionality, recipe builder.
• MHN Tips for Healthy Weight Management-Learning Course: 
  Login in to MHN EAP:
  • Company code:  santacruz 
  • Select “E-learning" at top of page on right side 
  • Select "Tips for Healthy Weight Management" course
• MHN Weight Loss Tools and Resources:  
  Login in to MHN EAP: 
  • Company code:  santacruz 
  • Select “Wellness” at top of page
  • Chose “Healthy Eating” 
• Biggest Loser Challenge - Coming Soon! 
• Sutter Health Weight Management Programs - 831-460-7333 for information on current class offerings 
• Blue Shield Health Library - Articles and Videos on Weight Management
• Anthem Wellness Page - BMI calculator, calorie counter, calories used in exercise and more
• Information from the CDC on assessing your weight, getting started on weight loss, losing and keeping it off, and more
• Get ideas for low fat recipes, dining out, nutrition, and sign up for monthly health tips  from American Heart Association 
• Aim for a Healthy Weight: Downloadable quick information on weight management. 
• Weight Management - Nutrition.gov
• Step Right Up! Weight Watchers Exercise Tips
• Healthful Living: Physical Activity Tips - How much exercise is enough?