R 141333Z MAR 13

ALCOAST 112/13
COMDTNOTE 6200
SUBJ: HEALTHY WEIGHT
1. As winter gives way to spring and summer, thoughts turn to
weigh-ins, swimsuits, and the desire for shedding a few of those
excess pounds and building muscle mass.  The dietary supplement (DS)
industry spends millions of dollars annually marketing shame, guilt,
fear, and the promise of achieving the perfect body image to boost
sales.  DSs are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration, so
the consumption of over-the-counter DS products is fraught with risk.
The FDA has found hidden active ingredients, including prescription
drugs, in weight-loss DS products that can result in harmful effects.
For more information, read this FDA article:
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm246742.htm.
2. The Health, Safety, and Work-Life Directorate (CG-11) wants you to
make the most informed decision possible before taking a DS, and
strongly recommends you get the facts by reviewing the Human
Performance Resource Center (HPRC) website,
http://hprc-online.org/dietary-supplements/opss.  This site provides
extensive information and guidance from experts tailored for the
military member.  The site allows users to ask specific questions
about products they are considering.  This information tool is
available to active duty, selected reserve (SELRES), civilian
employees, and family members.
3. In addition to the HPRC website, COMDT (CG-11) also recommends
using the following Coast Guard resources to take a measured,
informed, and responsible decision-making approach to your health
promotion needs:
   a. Regional health promotion mangers (HPMs) are knowledgeable
about
nutrition and workout strategies and may be contacted by calling
1-800-872-4957 and following the prompts.  HPM services are available
to active duty, SELRES, civilian employees, and family members.
   b. CG SUPRT offers online and telephonic resources for health
coaching to help you formulate a healthy plan to overcome obstacles
to successful weight loss and develop a healthy lifestyle.  Call
1-855-CGSUPRT (247-8778), or visit: http://www.cgsuprt.com.  CG SUPRT
is available to active duty, selected reserve (SELRES), civilian
employees, and family members.
   c. Your primary care manager (PCM) can screen you for medical
conditions that may be interfering with your ability to lose weight
and achieve your health goals.  Regional pharmacy executives (RPEs)
are available for discussion of DS products.  RPEs can be reached
through consultation with the base clinic or independent duty
corpsman.  Assistance from Coast Guard PCMs and RPEs is only
available to active duty members.
4. Starting an exercise program, eating a balanced diet, and getting
adequate sleep are the ingredients to a healthier and more productive
life and are well worth the effort.  Act now, take advantage of these
valuable resources.
5. For questions concerning this ALCOAST, contact Mr. Tim Merrell,
COMDT (CG-1111), 202-475-5146 or Timothy.M.Merrell(at)uscg.mil.
6. RADM Maura K. Dollymore, Director Health, Safety, and Work-Life,
sends.
7. Internet release authorized.