Publications by authors named "Hollie A Gelberg"
Introduction: Veterans with mental illness tend to have shorter life spans and suboptimal physical health because of a variety of factors. These factors include poor nutrition, being overweight, and smoking cigarettes. Nonphysical contributors that may affect quality of life are the stigma associated with mental illness, social difficulties, and spiritual crises.
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- The study examined the impact of behavioral weight management interventions on veterans with mental illness who were overweight and taking antipsychotic medications.
- Participants were divided into two groups: one received an intensive "Lifestyle Balance" program with classes and personal counseling, while the other group received standard "Usual Care" focused on weight monitoring.
- Results showed that both groups lost weight, but those in the "Lifestyle Balance" group had significantly greater reductions in waist circumference, body fat percentage, and BMI compared to the "Usual Care" group.
Weight gain and worsening metabolic parameters are often side effects of antipsychotic medications used by individuals with severe mental illness. To address this, a randomized, controlled research study of a behavioral weight management program for individuals with severe mental illness was undertaken to assess its efficacy. Patients unable to meet weight loss goals during the first portion of the year-long study were given the option of using meal replacement shakes in an effort to assist with weight loss.
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