Welcome to S.L.I.M. in HIM^TM !

S.L.I.M. is an acronym for “Successful Living In Moderation,” and everything we do is in and through HIM, Jesus Christ.

Obesity Epidemic in the United States

Obesity rates in the United States have been rising. They are at historically high levels, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The obesity epidemic has significantly impacted public health, leading to various health, economic, and social consequences. The CDC declared obesity an epidemic in the United States in 1999, while the WHO recognized obesity as a global epidemic in 1997.

Consequences of Obesity

Obesity has significant health consequences, including an increased risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers (breast, colon, endometrial), and musculoskeletal disorders like osteoarthritis. It also impacts mental health, heightening the risk of depression, anxiety, and experiencing social stigma and discrimination. Respiratory problems, including sleep apnea and asthma, are more prevalent in individuals with obesity. Additionally, obesity reduces quality of life through physical limitations and increased healthcare utilization.

Obesity leads to significant economic consequences, including higher healthcare costs due to direct medical expenses for treating related conditions and indirect costs from lost productivity and absenteeism. It also impacts the workforce through reduced work performance, increased disability claims, and higher health insurance premiums for both employers and employees.

Obesity has notable social consequences, including exacerbating inequalities with higher rates in lower-income and minority populations and limited access to healthy foods and safe environments for physical activity in disadvantaged communities. It also impacts children, leading to increased rates of childhood obesity, earlier onset of related health issues, and negative effects on academic performance and social interactions. 

Overweight, Obesity, and Morbid Obesity

According to the 2023 U.S. Census Bureau, the United States has a population of approximately 334 million, including about 255 million adults (18 and older), 25 million adolescents (12-17 years), and 54 million children (under 12 years). Among adults, 32% are considered overweight (BMI 25-29.9), 42% are obese (BMI 30-39.9), and 9% are morbidly or severely obese (BMI 40 or higher). In total, 83% of adults, or 8 out of 10, are at an unhealthy weight.

 Big Billions Business

Americans spend well over $100 billion annually on diet and fitness-related expenses, including approximately $72 billion on weight loss programs and products, $35 billion on gym memberships and services, and $10-15 billion on home fitness equipment. Additional spending on sports equipment and apparel exceeds $100 billion. Despite these substantial financial investments, there doesn’t seem to be a good return on investment in terms of achieving and maintaining healthy weight and fitness levels. 

Could the Church be the Key?

There are approximately 380,000 Christian churches in the United States, including various denominations and independent congregations. This number fluctuates due to new churches being established and others closing. Recent estimates indicate that about 63% of the U.S. population identifies as Christian, encompassing Protestantism, Catholicism, and other branches of Christianity.

Given the current U.S. population of around 334 million people, this translates to roughly 208 million individuals identifying as Christian. These numbers can vary based on changes in religious affiliation, survey methodologies, and data collection times. The Pew Research Center and Gallup frequently conduct surveys on religious affiliation in the United States.

The Church has the potential to make a huge impact on the obesity epidemic through Christian faith-based weight loss and accountability! Jesus is the Door, the Church is the Key! 

Successful Living in Moderation in Christ Jesus (S.L.I.M. in HIM^TM )

We believe God has inspired us to start S.L.I.M. in HIM^TM , a Christian faith-based weight loss accountability program designed to foster successful living in moderation through accountability and community within a Christian environment.

Jonathan and Elaine Rice are the founders and co-pastors of Keystone Ministries as well as the founders of S.L.I.M. in HIM^TM . Jonathan began his medical career in 1988 and is a retired Nurse Practitioner. Elaine is a former LPN. (See more under the Staff tab.)

At S.L.I.M. in HIM^TM each individual receives a tailor-made approach to weight loss, with confidential one-on-one appointments, private weigh-ins, and weekly accountability. Prayer support is available both individually and corporately. Community is provided through monthly group meetings and a private Facebook group.

All the information presented in the S.L.I.M. in HIM^TM program is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, nutritional, dietary, therapeutic, or any other medical advice. It it not a substitute for any advice given you by your physician. Always consult your physician or health care provider before beginning any weight loss, nutrition, or exercise program.

Apart from God, we can do nothing, but we can do all things through Christ! (See John 15:5 and Philippians 4:13.)

Weight no more; apply to join S.L.I.M. in HIM^TM !

 

How to get started with S.L.I.M. in HIM^TM

• Complete the online application form here.
• Once your application has been reviewed and you are selected to join S.L.I.M. in HIM^TM , you will receive an Initial Medical Assessment form to complete. You will be scheduled for an appointment (approximately 30 minutes) to review and complete paperwork, set goals, and begin your journey with S.L.I.M. in HIM^TM .
• A monthly membership fee of $30 is due at your first appointment and the first of the month thereafter. You can pay with Cash or Check made out to Keystone Ministries with “S.L.I.M. in HIM” on the memo line. You can use a credit/debit card under the “Giving” tab at the top of the page. Discounts are available for Seniors, Active Pastors/Spouses, and Military.

 

Required weigh-ins will be once a week: Tuesday 6:00-8:00 p.m. or Thursday 10:00-12:00 noon.

Attending a monthly corporate meeting is required. This will be the second Saturday of the month from 10-12 noon.

A private Facebook Group “S.L.I.M. in HIM^TM ” will be available by personal invitation for group/community support and encouragement.

If you have any questions, contact us through email, text, or phone using the “Contact Us” tab at the top of the page.