Health Beyond the Scale: Inside the Weigh to Healthy Living Program

Many people think weight loss is only about the number on the scale. Riverside Healthcare’s Weigh to Healthy Living Program takes a different approach. The six-month program focuses on whole-person health, not quick fixes.

Registered dietitian Nicole Potts explains that the program looks at many parts of wellness. “The program assesses one’s overall health, including nutrition, physical activity, medical factors, and behavior change,” she states. “The goal is to help patients develop long-term habits that improve health and quality of life.”

Participants work with a full care team. This includes an endocrinologist, a dietitian, and a fitness professional. Each month, they meet with a doctor to review progress and medications. They also meet with a dietitian who helps create meal plans based on real life, not rigid rules.

More Than Weight Loss

Potts says “healthy living” means more than losing pounds. “Healthy living goes far beyond the number on the scale,” she reinforces. “It means improving energy, strength, mobility, and labs like blood sugar and cholesterol.”

Unlike many popular diets, the program focuses on medical guidance and personal needs. “Patients work with a full care team that looks at the whole patient instead of a one-size-fits-all plan,” she assures.

Addressing Health Risks

Endocrinologist Dr. Rachel Shell says excess weight can affect many parts of the body. “Obesity puts patients at risk for many conditions. For instance, insulin resistance, type-2 diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol,” she cautions. “It can also affect mood, energy, and even fertility.”

Because weight can be an emotional topic, the team works hard to avoid blame or shame. “The program recognizes obesity as a chronic, biologically influenced disease, not a moral failing,” Dr. Shell emphasizes. “We focus on health gains instead of the number on the scale.”

Learning New Habits

Nutrition plans start with the patient, not a template. Education happens both in person and online, so people can learn at their own pace. “We focus on mindful eating, practical portion control, and understanding cravings rather than restrictions,” Potts notes. “Everything fits in moderation.”

Physical activity is also a key part of the program. Participants complete MyFit Rx, an eight-week exercise program at Riverside Health Fitness Center. “Patients meet with an exercise professional who creates a plan that is safe and tailored to their ability and goals,” Potts explains.

Overcoming Real-Life Barriers

Dr. Shell knows healthy living can be harder when life gets in the way. The team helps with financial limits, medical conditions, and physical challenges. “Health should not depend on income,” she offers. “Our dietitians provide budget-friendly swaps like eggs, beans, frozen veggies, and canned tuna.”

After the six months end, support continues. “The program is not the end of the journey, but the beginning,” Dr. Shell adds. “It builds a foundation for long-term healthy habits.”

For many people, the Weigh to Healthy Living Program becomes a turning point. One focused on strength, confidence, and lasting change.

Learn more about the Weigh to Healthy Living program here, or register for an upcoming informational session here.