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Lee Health Launches Pivio: A Lifestyle Medicine Revolution

Lee Health Empowers Community to Take Control and Transform Health Through Innovative Pivio Program

In an era where chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity continue to plague communities across Southwest Florida, Lee Health is stepping up with a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower individuals to reclaim their well-being. The Pivio program, a comprehensive lifestyle medicine approach, is being rolled out by Lee Health to help participants make sustainable changes that can reverse or prevent these conditions. Launched with the goal of fostering long-term health transformations, Pivio represents a shift from traditional medical interventions to proactive, evidence-based lifestyle modifications. This program, which has already shown promising results in other regions, is now tailored for the local population in Lee County and surrounding areas, offering a beacon of hope for those seeking to break free from the cycle of illness and dependency on medications.

At its core, Pivio is a 12-week intensive program that combines education, coaching, and community support to address the root causes of poor health. Developed by the Lifestyle Medicine Institute, Pivio draws from decades of research in nutrition, physical activity, stress reduction, and social connectivity. Unlike fad diets or quick-fix gym memberships, Pivio emphasizes whole-food, plant-based eating as a foundational pillar. Participants learn how to incorporate nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds into their daily meals, while minimizing processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats. The program's nutritional guidance is not about restriction but about abundance—teaching people to enjoy flavorful, satisfying meals that nourish the body and support optimal function.

One of the standout features of Pivio is its holistic approach, which extends beyond diet to encompass movement and mindfulness. Weekly sessions include guided exercises that range from beginner-friendly walks and yoga to more structured strength training, all customized to individual fitness levels. The program recognizes that physical activity isn't just about burning calories; it's about building strength, improving mobility, and enhancing mental clarity. Stress management techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and journaling, are integrated to help participants combat the daily pressures that often lead to emotional eating or sedentary behaviors. Moreover, Pivio fosters a sense of community through group meetings, where participants share experiences, celebrate milestones, and hold each other accountable. This social aspect is crucial, as studies have shown that supportive networks significantly increase the likelihood of long-term success in health behavior changes.

Lee Health's adoption of Pivio aligns perfectly with its mission to provide accessible, high-quality care to the residents of Naples, Fort Myers, and beyond. Dr. Elena Rodriguez, a board-certified lifestyle medicine physician at Lee Health, explains the program's appeal: "We've seen too many patients trapped in a reactive healthcare model, where we treat symptoms rather than causes. Pivio flips the script by equipping people with the tools to prevent disease altogether. It's not just about losing weight; it's about gaining vitality, reducing inflammation, and lowering risks for conditions like hypertension and type 2 diabetes." Dr. Rodriguez points to clinical data from Pivio's national implementations, where participants have achieved an average weight loss of 5-10% of body weight, significant reductions in cholesterol levels, and even reversals of prediabetes in many cases.

The program's structure is designed for maximum engagement and accessibility. It begins with an initial assessment, where participants undergo baseline health screenings, including blood work, body composition analysis, and lifestyle questionnaires. This personalized starting point allows coaches—certified health professionals trained in lifestyle medicine—to create tailored plans. Over the 12 weeks, weekly virtual or in-person sessions provide education on topics like reading food labels, preparing quick healthy meals, and incorporating exercise into busy schedules. Interactive elements, such as cooking demonstrations and group challenges, make learning fun and practical. For those with mobility issues or time constraints, Pivio offers flexible options, including online modules and app-based tracking tools that monitor progress in real-time.

What sets Pivio apart from other wellness programs is its strong emphasis on evidence-based outcomes. Backed by research published in journals like the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, the program has demonstrated measurable improvements in biometric markers. For instance, a study involving over 1,000 participants nationwide showed that 70% experienced normalized blood pressure, and 60% reduced or eliminated their need for certain medications. In Lee Health's pilot phase, local participants echoed these results. Take Sarah Thompson, a 52-year-old Naples resident who joined Pivio after struggling with obesity and joint pain for years. "I was skeptical at first," she shares. "But after just a few weeks, I noticed my energy levels soaring. I've lost 25 pounds, and my doctor took me off my blood pressure meds. The best part? I don't feel deprived—I'm eating more delicious food than ever." Stories like Sarah's are becoming common, illustrating how Pivio isn't just a program but a lifestyle revolution.

Lee Health is committed to making Pivio inclusive and affordable. The program is offered at a subsidized rate for community members, with scholarships available for low-income individuals through partnerships with local nonprofits. Employers in the region are also encouraged to sponsor employee participation, recognizing the program's potential to reduce healthcare costs and boost productivity. For those with chronic conditions, Pivio integrates seamlessly with existing medical care, often in collaboration with primary care physicians who monitor progress and adjust treatments accordingly.

Beyond individual transformations, Pivio has broader implications for public health in Southwest Florida. The region faces high rates of lifestyle-related diseases, exacerbated by factors like an aging population and sedentary lifestyles. By promoting preventive care, Lee Health aims to alleviate the burden on hospitals and clinics. "We're not just treating illness; we're building a healthier community," says Ben Siegel, CEO of Lee Health. "Pivio empowers people to take control of their health destiny, which in turn strengthens our entire healthcare system."

Enrollment in Pivio is straightforward, with upcoming sessions starting monthly at various Lee Health locations, including the Bonita Springs and Estero campuses. Interested individuals can visit the Lee Health website or call the dedicated hotline for more information. Virtual orientations provide a low-pressure way to learn about the program and ask questions. Participants receive a comprehensive toolkit, including recipe books, exercise guides, and access to an online portal for ongoing support even after the 12 weeks conclude.

As the program gains momentum, Lee Health plans to expand its offerings, potentially incorporating advanced modules on topics like sleep optimization and environmental health. Success stories continue to pour in, from retirees regaining mobility to young professionals preventing burnout. In a world where health often feels out of reach, Pivio stands as a testament to the power of informed, intentional living.

For those ready to transform their health, Pivio offers more than just a program—it's a pathway to empowerment. By focusing on sustainable habits rather than temporary fixes, it addresses the multifaceted nature of well-being. Participants emerge not only healthier but also more confident, connected, and in control. Lee Health's investment in Pivio underscores a forward-thinking approach to healthcare, one that prioritizes prevention and personalization. As Dr. Rodriguez aptly puts it, "Health isn't something that happens to you; it's something you create. Pivio gives you the blueprint to build it."

In summary, through Pivio, Lee Health is revolutionizing how Southwest Floridians approach their health, proving that with the right support, profound change is within everyone's grasp. Whether you're battling a chronic condition or simply seeking to optimize your vitality, this program invites you to take the first step toward a brighter, healthier future. (Word count: 1,056)

Read the Full Naples Daily News Article at:
[ https://www.naplesnews.com/story/news/local/communities/the-banner/2025/08/04/lee-health-take-control-transform-your-health-with-pivio/85473735007/ ]