Healthy weight with a lifestyle programme

What is a lifestyle programme?

A lifestyle programme will help 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, dietician, physiotherapist or exercise therapist or a combination of these healthcare providers.

Together, you work for two years to make lasting changes to your lifestyle. These programmes are called Combined lifestyle interventions (GLI). In the first year you learn to live healthier, in the second year you learn how to sustain these changes.

You will receive practical tips and guidance on:

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

So you work step by step towards a healthier life that suits you - at your pace, with support.

When do you qualify?

Your GP or specialist can assess whether a lifestyle programme makes sense for you. These programmes are reimbursed from the basic insurance. You are eligible in the following situations:

You have a BMI of 25 or higher AND any 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 GP or specialist may refer you to a lifestyle coach.

Want to join the GLI? This is how it works

The GLI has several intake moments per year and the content of the programme may vary from provider to provider.

Step 1: Talk to your GP or primary care physician (POH) about it
Tell them you are interested in the lifestyle programme. Together, you look at whether the GLI suits you. For example, if you are a little or a lot overweight, or if you want to live healthier to prevent symptoms.

Step 2: Referral to lifestyle programme
If the GP or POH thinks the GLI is for you, they will refer you to a lifestyle coach who offers the programme.

Step 3: Intake interview
You will have an interview with a lifestyle coach. During the intake interview, you will discuss with the lifestyle coach when your participation can start. You also discuss together what your goals are and how you can best get started. The coach will help you make a plan that suits you.

Step 4: Following the lifestyle programme
The programme usually lasts about two years. You get help in changing your eating habits, exercising more and other things that make you healthier. This is often through group meetings and also individual talks.

Step 5: Working together towards a healthier lifestyle
Your coach will help you throughout the process. This way, you stay motivated and learn how to maintain your new lifestyle.