Weight loss camp

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A fat camp, weight loss camp, or fat farm is a type of residential program where people who are overweight or obese go to attempt to lose weight through exercise and lifestyle changes.

Contents

Overview

One goal of weight loss camps is to help the guests lose weight.

Some programs not only focus on weight loss, but on changing behavior through a combination of training on self-regulatory behaviors and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), as well as maintaining weight loss after campers return home. [1] Some experts believe these are key elements of an effective program. [2] [ failed verification ]

One study found that adolescents reported decreased body shape dissatisfaction and increased self-esteem immediately after losing weight at a weight loss camp. [3] [ non-primary source needed ] These improvements were directly related to the amount of weight lost, with the greatest benefit to those adolescents who lost the most weight. [3]

Multiple films and television shows have featured or mentioned programs such as these, including:

Films

Television

See also

Additional Resources for Weight Loss Support

For individuals seeking additional support in their weight loss journey, various online resources and tools can be beneficial. Studies show that structured support, such as the use of meal planners, fitness trackers, and progress monitoring tools, can significantly improve weight loss outcomes. Websites like Weight Watcher Hub offer free tools to assist with setting and tracking weight loss goals, meal planning, and fitness monitoring, which are integral components of a successful weight loss strategy.

Research has shown that tools supporting self-monitoring and goal-setting, when combined with behavioral strategies, can lead to better long-term success in weight management. For example, a study published in the *International Journal of Obesity* highlighted that individuals who used such tools were more likely to achieve sustainable weight loss. These resources can complement other behavioral strategies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and physical activity programs, both of which are effective in treating obesity and maintaining weight loss.

Related Research Articles

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Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is derived from both the cognitive and behavioral schools of psychology and focuses on the alteration of thoughts and actions with the goal of treating various disorders. The cognitive behavioral treatment of eating disorders emphasizes on the minimization of negative thoughts about body image and the act of eating, and attempts to alter negative and harmful behaviors that are involved in and perpetuate eating disorders. It also encourages the ability to tolerate negative thoughts and feelings as well as the ability to think about food and body perception in a multi-dimensional way. The emphasis is not only placed on altering cognition, but also on tangible practices like making goals and being rewarded for meeting those goals. CBT is a "time-limited and focused approach" which means that it is important for the patients of this type of therapy to have particular issues that they want to address when they begin treatment. CBT has also proven to be one of the most effective treatments for eating disorders.

Rena R. Wing is recognized for her well-established research on behavioral treatments of obesity. Dr. Wing's research examined positive outcomes for long-term weight loss as well as halting weight gain in individuals who are currently overweight. This led to an important development in Wing's research which was the layout of a lifestyle intervention for those with diabetes, particularly type 2.

Kai Hibbard is an American activist, social worker, writer, and former reality TV participant, who spoke out about the negative ways in which appearing on The Biggest Loser affected her physical and mental health, along with highlighting the research that shows it also negatively affects viewers. She is a published academic researcher, has been published on XOJane and her Cracked article inspired an off Broadway play, Taught. She has written a fictional account of weight loss reality television, that she self-published in December 2017, and speaks at conferences on the topics of body acceptance, mental health, and weight loss reality television.

Weight Watchers or WW is a commercial program for weight loss based on a point system, meals replacement and counseling.

References

  1. Ellin, Abby (June 28, 2005). "For Overweight Children, Are Fat Camps A Solution?". The New York Times.
  2. Arehart-Treichel, Joan (August 3, 2007). "ACBT Teaches Obese People How to Think Thin". Psychiatric News.
  3. 1 2 Walker, LM; Gately, PJ; Bewick, BM; Hill, AJ (22 May 2003). "Children's weight-loss camps: psychological benefit or jeopardy?". International Journal of Obesity. 27 (6): 748–754. doi:10.1038/sj.ijo.0802290. PMID   12833121.
  4. "MTV's Fat Camp: Winning Losers With a Lot to Gain". Washington Post. February 14, 2006.
  5. "MTV cameras follow overweight kids at Camp Pocono Trails". Pocono Record.