Healthier weight with help from a lifestyle programme

Am I overweight?

Being overweight can have several causes. For example, because of what you eat and exercise, but also because of stress, poor sleep, illness or medication. Therefore, it is important to first look whether you are overweight and what plays a role in your case.

With the online decision aid Check causes of obesity you will gain insight into this. You fill in a number of questionnaires. The outcome will show you which factors may be at play and which follow-up step suits you best.

You can take the outcome to your GP to discuss together what is a good approach for you.

What suits me?

Not everyone who is overweight needs the same help. Sometimes small lifestyle changes are enough. Sometimes additional counselling is needed. In other cases, further research is important first. Together with your GP, you look at which support is best for you.

What is a lifestyle programme?

A lifestyle programme helps you lose weight and live healthier if you are overweight. Depending on the programme you participate in, you will receive guidance from a lifestyle coach, dietitian, physiotherapist or exercise therapist, or a combination of these healthcare providers.

Together, you will work for two years to achieve a lasting change in your lifestyle. These programmes are called Combined Lifestyle Interventions (GLI). In the first year, you learn how to live healthier, and in the second year, you learn how to maintain these changes.

You will receive practical tips and guidance in the following areas:

• Healthy eating
• Get more exercise
• Sleep better and relax
• Dealing with stress and other issues that get in the way of a healthy lifestyle

This way, you can work step by step towards a healthier life that suits you — at your own pace, with support.

When are you eligible?

Your general practitioner or specialist can assess whether a lifestyle programme is appropriate for you. These programmes are covered by basic insurance. You are eligible in the following situations:

You have a BMI of 25 or higher and one of these problems:

• increased risk of cardiovascular disease
• increased risk of diabetes
• diabetes
• osteoarthritis
• sleep apnoea

Or, you have a BMI of 30 or higher, and you would like to participate yourself. Your general practitioner or specialist can refer you to a lifestyle coach.