Weight control: a lifestyle-modification model for improving health.

The alarming increase in the prevalence of obesity in the United States is associated with many chronic health problems. Individuals need to learn how to modify their eating behaviors to control their weight and improve their health. Programs that include a combination of diet, exercise, and cognitive-behavioral strategies are effective in helping mild to moderately obese individuals modify their eating patterns. We review current findings in obesity and weight loss lifestyle modification research. The Lifestyle Modification Model, its practical implications, and implementation ideas for practitioners are presented along with suggestions for considering cultural differences.