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Non-pharmacologic Treatment
Principles of Healthful Nutrition
➤ Encourage:
• Consumption of healthful proteins and fats such as seafood and
dairy products (while being mindful of caloric content)
• Consumption of vegetables, whole f ruits, nuts, legumes, whole
grains
• Complex carbohydrates over simple sugars; low glycemic index
foods over high glycemic index foods; high-f iber foods over low-
f iber foods
• Minimizing energy-dense foods and beverages such as sugar-
sweetened beverages, juice, cream
• Minimizing ultra-processed foods of minimum nutritional value
such as ref ined grains, "sweets," "junk foods," cakes, cookies, candy,
pies, chips, and ultra-processed meats such as bacon, sausage, hot
dogs, pastrami
• Minimizing trans fats and excessive sodium
• Reading labels rather than marketing claims
Choosing Nutrition Therapy for Obesity
The Most Appropriate Nutritional Therapy for Weight Loss is One
That is Safe, Effective, and One to Which the Patient Will Adhere
➤ Encourage foods that result in a negative caloric balance to
achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
➤ Consider the following:
• Eating behaviors, and meal patterns
• Cultural background, traditions, and food availability
• Time constraints and f inancial issues
• Nutritional knowledge and cooking skills
• Medical conditions potentially affected by the nutrition plan
