Weight Management: Beyond Balancing Calories

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  • Course Duration 1-3 months
  • Price USD$
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  • Platform Others
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Introduction

In today’s world, the challenge of managing weight has become more significant than ever before. The rising prevalence of obesity is a global concern affecting millions of lives. In this comprehensive online course, you will gain valuable insights into the complex dynamics of weight management and learn practical strategies to overcome the barriers to successful weight loss. Led by the esteemed instructor, Sharon Horesh Bergquist, MD, this course will delve into the science of obesity, the role of appetite hormones, the impact of dietary choices, and the often underestimated factors of stress, exercise, and sleep. By the end of this course, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and tools to develop a sustainable weight management plan that fits your lifestyle.

Course Overview

What’s Included

Throughout the course, you will have access to a wealth of educational materials to support your learning journey. These resources include informative videos, insightful readings, and quizzes to test your understanding. With approximately 17 hours of content, divided into five modules, you can progress at your own pace, making it convenient for individuals with busy schedules.

What You’ll Gain

Understanding the Root Cause of Obesity

The course begins by addressing the fundamental question: why has obesity become so pervasive and challenging in our society? Explore the latest scientific research that sheds light on the root causes of obesity and how our food environment has evolved over time, leading to excessive calorie consumption and resistance to sustained weight loss.

Navigating the Science of Weight Loss

In recent decades, significant advancements have been made in understanding the regulation of hunger and weight “set point.” Learn how the brain, hormones, gut, and emotions interact to control food intake and body weight. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be better equipped to approach weight loss in a more effective and sustainable manner.

Identifying the Impact of Dietary Factors

While counting calories can be helpful, not all calories are equal. Discover the key principles behind the healthiest dietary patterns and learn about the diet best supported by scientific studies. Understanding how different foods interact with our bodies will empower you to make informed choices for your weight management journey.

Uncovering the Effects of Stress, Exercise, and Sleep

Beyond diet, other crucial factors often overlooked in weight management are stress, exercise, and sleep. Explore how these factors influence the hormones and chemicals that control appetite and metabolism. Equipped with this knowledge, you can optimize your lifestyle to support your weight management goals effectively.

Leveraging Habits for Successful Weight Management

Habits play a significant role in our daily choices and behaviors. Instead of relying solely on conscious decisions, this module will teach you how to harness the power of habits to support your weight management goals subconsciously. Additionally, you’ll learn the importance of mindfulness when it comes to eating habits, leading to better choices and healthier outcomes.

Who This Course is For

This course is designed for individuals from all walks of life who are eager to take control of their weight and well-being. Whether you’ve struggled with weight management in the past or are simply seeking to adopt a healthier lifestyle, this course offers valuable knowledge and practical strategies suitable for beginners with no previous experience in weight management.

Module 1: The Physiology of Obesity

The first module will take a deep dive into the physiology of obesity, helping you understand the underlying mechanisms that contribute to weight gain. By grasping the physiological aspects, you will gain valuable insights into how your body functions and responds to different stimuli, enabling you to make informed decisions regarding your weight management journey.

Module 2: Hunger, Hormones, and Weight Set Point

Building on the knowledge from the previous module, this section will explore the intricate relationship between hunger, hormones, and the body’s weight set point. By comprehending these interconnections, you will gain a greater sense of control over your appetite, aiding you in establishing healthier eating patterns and achieving sustained weight loss.

Module 3: Optimal Diet for Sustainable Weight Management

A critical aspect of successful weight management is the type of food we consume. In this module, you will learn about the healthiest dietary patterns that have substantial scientific support. Armed with this information, you can make educated choices when it comes to your diet, supporting your journey towards a healthier weight.

Module 4: Balancing Lifestyle Factors for Appetite Control

Managing weight goes beyond just what we eat; it extends to how we live. This module will underscore the importance of stress management, exercise, and sleep in controlling our appetite and metabolism. Armed with this knowledge, you can implement effective lifestyle changes that complement your dietary choices and contribute to your overall well-being.

Module 5: Designing Your Long-Term Weight Loss Plan

In the final module, we bring everything together. Drawing from the wealth of knowledge acquired throughout the course, you will learn how to design a personalized, long-term weight loss plan that aligns with your goals, habits, and surroundings. By putting this plan into action, you can take confident steps towards a healthier, happier life.

Conclusion

As you reach the end of this transformative course, you will have gained an in-depth understanding of the factors influencing weight management. Armed with expert knowledge, you can now approach your weight goals with a newfound sense of empowerment and confidence. Remember, sustainable weight management is a journey, and the tools and strategies you’ve acquired here will serve as your compass along the way.

FAQs

  1. Is this course suitable for beginners? Absolutely! This course is designed for individuals with no prior experience in weight management. The content is presented in an accessible manner, making it easy for beginners to grasp and implement.
  2. How much time should I dedicate to the course weekly? The course is designed to accommodate diverse schedules. You can complete it at your own pace, dedicating approximately 5 hours a week, which can be adjusted based on your availability.
  3. Is financial aid available for the course? Yes, financial aid options are available for those who qualify. Coursera offers assistance to learners in need, ensuring that valuable education is accessible to all.
  4. What kind of support can I expect from the instructor? Instructor Sharon Horesh Bergquist, MD, is committed to fostering a positive learning experience. While the course is designed to be self-paced, you can reach out to the instructor or the course community for any questions or clarifications.
  5. Can I access the course material after completion? Yes, upon successful completion of the course, you will retain access to the course material, allowing you to review the content whenever needed.