Pick your Scale Back Alabama partners now: Jan. 19 is first day to weigh in for teams of 2 or more

       

MOBILE, Ala. -- The Mobile County Health Department is encouraging its staff – and all residents -- to take part in the Scale Back Alabama initiative this year. But agency leaders don’t want employees, or anyone else, to give up on a healthier lifestyle once the 10-week program ends.
At the conclusion of the statewide program this year, the Mobile County Health Department will continue its own version of the Scale Back program, including weigh-ins and monthly lunch-and-learn sessions led by members of the agency’s nutrition staff.

Scale Back Alabama is a free statewide weight-loss program designed to encourage state residents to get healthy. Scale Back Alabama is primarily operated with the help of local employers, hospitals and health departments. Each organization appoints one person to serve as a program coordinator, and individuals compete on teams of two to win a chance at cash prizes. Since the program began in 2007, residents have lost more than one million pounds.

Weigh-in week for Scale Back Alabama runs from Jan. 19-25. Weigh-out week is planned from April 6-12. Winners will be announced during a final event planned for April 24, 2015, organizers said.

With the idea that getting fit and staying healthy should be something people strive to do every day, Dr. Bernard Eichold worked with MCHD’s nutrition staff on positive ways to encourage the 500-employee agency to make better choices when it comes to food and exercise.

“We want to set a good example and keep scaling back all year,” Eichold said. “We know proper diet and exercise play a vital role in our health and quality of life. This new program will be a way to help keep staff members on track.”

To accomplish that goal, monthly lunch-and-learn programs will continue at the downtown public health location for employees provided by members of the nutrition staff. Scales will be accessible for weigh-ins and registered dietitians are available to staff members daily.

Scale Back Alabama, a free incentivized weight loss program for state residents, is introducing several changes for 2015, including changing the team size from four to two members. For more information, visit www.scalebackalabama.com. People should consult with their doctor or other health care provider before embarking on a weight-loss program.