Iowans Who Want to Lose Weight in 2026 Might Need to Consult A Pro
Iowans making New Year’s resolutions to lose weight may improve their odds by getting help from a professional.
Rebecca Cripe, a registered dietitian and nutritionist with Emplify Health by Gundersen, says changing eating habits and routines is difficult — and working with a dietitian can help people build a realistic plan.
“We’re trained to look at health from a medical standpoint and how food, exercise, hydration and proper self-care fit into that,” Cripe says. She says the first step is an assessment to see what’s out of balance and what a person’s goals are.
Cripe suggests people shouldn’t wait until spring to start. She says dietitians focus on education and problem-solving, and lasting change takes time.
“The average time to make a good lifestyle change is at least six months,” Cripe says. “We’re going to take small steps…implement small goals that are realistic.”
Cripe also warns Iowans to be cautious about fad diets and messaging that blames people if they don’t meet weight-loss goals quickly.
“Managing health, weight specifically, is multifactorial,” she says, pointing to genetics, other health issues, environment, support systems and readiness to change as factors that can all play a role.
Emplify Health by Gundersen operates clinics in Fayette, Decorah, Waukon, Lansing, Postville and Calmar, along with a hospital in West Union.
