The lifestyle change program curriculum is part of the National Diabetes Prevention Program, led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
It is designed for people who have prediabetes or are at risk for type 2 diabetes, but who do not already have diabetes. The lifestyle change program is proven to help people with prediabetes prevent or delay development of type 2 diabetes.
What Is the Benefit of Participating in the Lifestyle Change Program?
The CDC-recognized lifestyle change program is a structured program—in-person or online—based on research, specifically to prevent type 2 diabetes. Participating in the lifestyle change program will help you:
Improve Your Health
The lifestyle change program can help you lose a modest amount of weight through healthy eating, being more physically active, and managing stress. When combined, all of these behavior changes will help reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other serious health conditions, such as having a heart attack or stroke.
Feel Better and More Energetic
Many participants say they feel better and are more active than they were before the program. Imagine having more energy to do the things you love with the ones you love.
Be Part of a Larger Community
Making changes can be easier when you’re working as a group rather than doing it on your own. Being part of a group with people who are facing similar challenges and trying to make the same changes you are provides the necessary support structure to make these types of behavior changes. Together, you can share ideas, celebrate successes, and work to overcome obstacles. With your coach and fellow participants, you can celebrate successes and learn to solve obstacles – together.
What Is the Format of the Lifestyle Change Program?
CDC-recognized lifestyle change program groups meet for a year — weekly for the first 6 months, then once or twice a month for the second 6 months. The program is focused on helping you make long-term changes for lasting results. A year might sound like a long commitment, but learning and maintaining new habits and skills, and building confidence takes time. The program is led by a trained lifestyle coach to help you learn new skills, encourage you to set and meet goals, and keep you motivated. During each session, which is based on a CDC-approved curriculum, your lifestyle coach will engage the group to see how things are going, introduce the session’s key topics, and guide a group discussion.For example, you will learn to:
You will leave the session with suggestions from the lifestyle coach about things to try at home.
Your National DPP Lifestyle Coach
Lifestyle coaches play a key role in the CDC-recognized lifestyle change program.[National DPP or Organization’s] lifestyle coaches have the experience and training to help you reach your goals. During the year-long program, your lifestyle coach will help you:
