Parkview Adventist Medical Center's Lifestyle Choices program helps people to be active and in control of their health. The program is a two-week series of lectures, discussion, fitness and a sampling of many healthful foods.

Participants undergo pre- and post-program assessments including blood studies, fitness evaluations, nutritional assessment and Personal Wellness Profiling. They meet with a physical therapist in order to start a regular physical activity program appropriate for their current condition and personal goals. During the intensive program, participants meet for group educational programs five evenings a week, for two consecutive weeks.

Each evening consists of physical activity, supper, cooking demonstrations and physician led lectures, discussions, etc. Towards the end of the program participants take a “field trip” to the local grocery store in order to put into practice many of the concepts they’ve learned related to nutrition and making healthy food choices.

This program is often covered by insurance, but for those who can’t get coverage, Parkview offers a deeply discounted price. The average participant will experience about a 50-point reduction in his or her total cholesterol as well as reductions in blood sugar and triglyceride levels. In addition, most participants report having more energy and sleeping better.