Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less is a 15-week adult weight management program that uses strategies based on evidence for weight loss and/or weight maintenance. The Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less classes focus on the 12 evidence-based eating and physical activity behaviors for weight management. The program does not provide a prescriptive diet plan, it teaches small lifetime changes. The program teaches mindfulness as a strategy to become more aware of eating and physical activity. Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less includes methods for planning and tracking healthy eating and physical activity behaviors. In 2007, Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less curriculum was developed by a writing team from North Carolina State University and North Carolina Division of Public Health. A complete listing of authors and their respective affiliations can be found on the program website. The 15-lesson curriculum was peer reviewed by state and local nutrition and physical activity professionals, representatives from the medical community, and a CDC project officer. Behavior change theory Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less uses the theory of planned behavior as the theoretical framework to motivate participants to make behavior changes related to eating and physical activity. Program description The program was developed and written by a diverse group of professionals from public health, research, education, and medicine. These authors have expertise in physical activity, nutrition, and weight loss. The lessons focus on 12 evidence-based healthy eating and physical activity behaviors for weight management. Published data were used to identify key weight loss and weight maintenance strategies. These include eating fewer calories; eating more fruits and vegetables; eating more whole grains; eating breakfast regularly; controlling/decreasing portion sizes; eating more meals at home; drinking fewer calorie-containing beverages; keeping a food/physical activity record; increasing physical activity; and watching less television. In addition, methods for planning and tracking lifestyle behaviors along with mindful eating concepts are included in each lesson. Mindfulness and tracking behaviors have both been shown in the professional literature to be associated with better weight loss success. The curriculum uses the theory of planned behavior to motivate participants to make behavior change. Collaborators Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less is conducted in collaboration with NC Cooperative Extension, NC State University and the Physical Activity and Nutrition Branch, NC Division of Public Health. Other collaborating organizations include East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine and the State Health Plan in North Carolina for Teachers