April 1, 2008--What is the secret for dieters who are seeking to keeping off weight lost? A recent study shows that it's the "personal touch" -- being accountable to a third party -- that is key to maintaining weight loss.

A multi-site team of scientists led by Dr. Laura Svetkey of Duke University conducted a study called "The Weight Loss Maintenance Trial," which was funded by the National Institutes of Health National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.

The study, published in the March 2008 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, reported that diet participants who had monthly personal counseling had the most success and kept more weight off than those who did not.

"At |medi|, our treatment plan is built upon the personal touch. Patients work closely with our team to achieve their weight loss and wellness goals," said Edward Zbella, M.D., Medical Director of |medi|.

|medi| is a physician-supervised weight loss program that helps patients lose up to 5 to 10 pounds the first week and up to 20 pounds the first month.

The third and final phase of the program is "Wellness," which includes bi-weekly or monthly visits to the clinic where patients receive a face-to-face consultation with a clinic staff member. Patients get a weight and body fat index evaluation, a blood pressure check, nutritional and exercise counseling and nutritional supplements, if needed.

"It's our experience that medically supervised patients not only reach their weight goal, but maintain it. Our staff reinforces healthy habits," Dr. Zbella said.

To find the location nearest you, call 1-877-MED-LOSS, or visit the website at www.mediweightlossclinics.com. For information on opening a clinic, please contact the Business Development Department at 1-866-551-MEDI.