The holistic, self-care approach for permanent weight control can be used to reduce cardiac risk factors in the obese yo-yo dieter. Two major concepts of the approach are implied by the name: holistic means that all parts of the patient's life are examined and incorporated into an adjustment in lifestyle to promote not only permanent weight control but also reduced cardiac risk as well. Self-care implies that the patient is ultimately responsible for his change in lifestyle. The nurse can only act as a knowledgeable, supportive facilitator to the patient. However, if the patient over an extended period of time chooses to adopt a new healthier lifestyle, the nurse can be one of the greatest influences in accomplishing positive change.