This program has three phases: Understand the Principles, Learn the Practices, and Follow your Progress. You will register for one phase at a time. After each phase, you will decide if you want to move on to the next one. 

In the first phase, you will be introduced to the medical knowledge that is the foundation of this program. In the second phase, you will learn how to convert this knowledge into practical steps for losing weight. In the third phase, you will learn how to keep track of your weight loss, overcome obstacles, and change the way you eat - for ever.

Phase 1: Understand the Principles

Come and join others in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere as we go over the principles on which this program is based. This is your chance to go to school on your own body!

Have you wondered what really causes hunger - is it just an empty stomach or is there more going on? What compels us to make poor food choices in spite of knowing better?  How, and why, do we collect fat? What is a reasonable goal for weight loss, and why does weight loss slow down after the first few pounds? What are the complications of obesity and how can we avoid them?

Dr. Kalia has been a medical school teacher his whole life. In this one-hour session, he will answer these questions and many more. As you follow along, you will gain new knowledge that empowers you and helps you look at weight management from a different perspective. You will begin to better understand your body. Your failures and successes in the battle with  your weight will begin to make sense. You will now be prepared to move on to Phase 2, if you so decide. 

Even if you do not need to lose weight, this knowledge is of great benefit- it will help you not gain weight as the years go by. We call it the "immunization" program!

The cost of attending Phase 1 is $20 for one person or $30 for two. There is a reason for the two-person discount: any weight management program is easier to follow if you have company! We encourage you to bring your husband, your wife, your friend, your significant other. We want you to succeed, for your success is our success.

Phase 2: Learn the Practices

This is a three-hour workshop that focuses on obtaining the right knowledge and on the actions needed to apply that knowledge. Covered areas include setting reasonable weight loss goals, controlling hunger, changing eating behaviors, making the right food choices, learning to cheat (yes!), and the role of exercise. Shopping lists, daily menus, and recipes help you get started. Most recipes use no more than five ingredients and take less than 30 minutes to prepare. Local restaurants and food stores are also highlighted.

You will follow along using a workbook. After the session, this workbook will become the tool that helps you make a permanent change in your eating habits, your weight, and your health.

The cost for Phase 2 is $120 per person. At the end of Phase 2, you will have the information you need to lose weight and keep it off. However, many of us benefit from ongoing support so participating in Phase 3 may further increase your chance for success.

Phase 3: Follow your Progress

Many participants asked us to provide on-going support so they can get started correctly. Phase 3 is the continuing education and tracking program. In this phase, Dr. Kalia and Ms. Susan Rapley (a registered dietitian) will monitor your progress. They will meet with you every week to make sure that your weight loss is on target and that you are easing smoothly into your new ways of living and eating.

At each meeting, they will continue to increase your knowledge by providing additional educational materials. Knowledge is power; the more you know, the more you will be in control of your weight, your metabolism, and your health.