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. 2022 Sep 9:12:111-125.
doi: 10.2147/DNND.S370173. eCollection 2022.

The Wahls Behavior Change Model for Complex Chronic Diseases: A Clinician's Guide

Alaina N Elliott-Wherry  1 , Jennifer E Lee  2 , Amy M Pearlman  3 , Terry L Wahls  4
Affiliations

The Wahls Behavior Change Model for Complex Chronic Diseases: A Clinician's Guide

Alaina N Elliott-Wherry et al. Degener Neurol Neuromuscul Dis. .

Abstract

Behavior change models are used to understand and intervene on health-related behaviors and outcomes. However, there is a gap in the literature regarding how to create and maintain behavior change in patients with complex chronic diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS). To address this gap, the Wahls Behavior ChangeTM Model (WBCM) (The trademark applies to subsequent mention of the model.) was developed based on existing behavior change theory, empirical evidence, and extensive clinical experience caring for patients with complex chronic diseases. A patient-centered, comprehensive, and multimodal approach, this model provides a framework for understanding and implementing lifestyle behavior change. The overall goals of this paper are to: (1) review existing behavior change theories; (2) introduce the WBCM, including the model's 11 Principles for behavior change in patients with complex chronic diseases; and (3) share how providers can be trained to implement the WBCM. The WBCM can potentially improve short- and longer-term function and quality of life outcomes for people with complex chronic diseases.

Keywords: adherence; chronic conditions; guidelines; health promotion; lifestyle medicine; multiple sclerosis.

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Conflict of interest statement

TW personally follows and promotes the Wahls DietTM. She has equity interest in the following companies: Terry Wahls LLC; TZ Press LLC; The Wahls Institute, PLC; FBB Biomed Inc; and the website http://www.terrywahls.com. She also owns the copyright to the books Minding My Mitochondria (2nd edition) and The Wahls Protocol, The Wahls Protocol Cooking for Life, and the trademarks The Wahls Protocol and Wahls diet, Wahls Paleo DietTM, and Wahls Paleo Plus DietsTM (the Wahls elimination diet is not trademarked). She has completed grant funding from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society for the Dietary Approaches to Treating Multiple Sclerosis Related Fatigue Study. She has financial relationships with BioCeuticals, MCG Health LLC, Genova Diagnostics, Vibrant Wellness Labs, Standard Processes, and the Institute for Functional Medicine. She receives royalty payments from Penguin Random House. Dr. Wahls has conflict of interest management plans in place with the University of Iowa and the Iowa City VA Health Care System. All other authors report no personal or financial conflicts of interest in this work.

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