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Hospital Nursing Staff Loses 400 Pounds to Date on Jenny Craig Weight Loss Program

Posted on: Wednesday, 9 May 2007, 06:00 CDT

CARLSBAD, Calif., May 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Weight loss leader Jenny Craig is demonstrating the importance of obtaining a more healthful weight to professionals who aren't always able to practice what they preach -- hospital nurses.

Between long hours and hectic schedules, many nurses find it challenging to incorporate nutritional eating and consistent physical activity into their daily routines. All too often, they're so committed to taking care of their patients that they don't take good enough care of themselves. In fact, according to a recent CDC Nurses Health Study, nurses are more likely to be obese than the average American, with an alarming 25 percent of them not exercising at all.

To both celebrate and educate these self-sacrificers, Jenny Craig launched a first-of-its kind initiative this February -- the Jenny Craig Nurses' Program -- providing complimentary weight loss programs to more than 40 nurses at Harlem's North General Hospital. While participating in the program, the nurses share their personal experiences with men and women across the country through online journals, web forums and updated photos.

As part of National Nurses Week, May 6 through 12, Jenny Craig will officially kick off its Nurses' Program with a luncheon at North General Hospital in Harlem on May 9, hosted by "American Idol" superstar Kimberley Locke. Locke will perform her hit single "Change," which has provided inspiration to the nurses throughout their weight loss experiences. A Jenny Craig client herself, Locke understands the dedication needed to lose weight and to take on the challenge of living more healthfully.

"Change is exactly what I've learned to do, and I hope the positive results I've achieved through Jenny Craig serve as encouragement for these incredible women," said Locke. "Not only have I learned proper portion control and ways to work off calories without going to a gym, I've also learned that creating healthy habits is an ongoing process that can reap long-term benefits."

According to Jenny Craig Chief Nutritionist, Lisa Talamini, "Our Jenny Craig Nurses' Program offers these wonderful caregivers the opportunity to incorporate healthy eating and exercise behaviors into their busy lifestyles. From what we've seen, they are extremely dedicated to improving their health, and are just as committed to being positive role models for their patients. As a group, they've already lost more than 400 pounds, and their goal is to ultimately lose a combined 1,800 pounds."

"I want to look and feel better before I turn 50 years old in December," explained Romona Smith, Registered Nurse at North General Hospital. Romona has attempted to lose weight in the past, but feels that the Jenny Craig Nurses' Program offers her a new opportunity and a fresh start. Fellow RN Dilcia Ortega signed up because she wanted to join her colleagues and feel better about her appearance. "I want to wear size 8 clothes and go out."

Regardless of their reasons for enrolling, the nurses have come together to form a community of encouragement, support and motivation.

For more information about the Jenny Craig Nurses' Program, go to: http://www.jennycraig.com/ngn.

Jenny Craig

CONTACT: Charly Rok, +1-212-598-4400, Ext 155, charly@lippetaylor.com orErica Rosen, +1-212-598-4400, Ext 125, erosen@lippetaylor.com, both of LippeTaylor, for Jenny Craig

Web site: http://www.jennycraig.com/ngn

Source: PRNewswire-FirstCall

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