Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Weight Loss Initiatives Before the Holidays

We have had several patients recently who came in for consultations to learn more about the program. All decided to start the program but in common, they voiced the feeling that they should start AFTER the holidays. Already knowing the true reason behind that decision, I asked each of them their rationale. Basically, it came down to not wanting to "mess up" their holidays. Although the intellectual part of our brain tells us that weight loss is a VERY GOOD thing...making us healthier, more confident, etc., there exists the almost universal feeling that "dieting" is basically sacrifice and deprivation. We will be giving up "fun" activities and substituting strict eating behaviors. If we go into a holiday season "dieting" we will have a much less fun holiday. Therefore, why not start January 1???

This is the mindset that we try very hard to change. Anything that makes us overweight, puts our health at risk, and makes us feel less confident is not a "good" thing. A concerted effort to lose those pounds, look younger, rid yourselves of medications, and live longer/healthier is a very good thing. Why wait one more minute to begin a new lifestyle? The holidays bring you and your loved ones together. This is what the important thing is. Ingesting thousands of needless calories should not make this family time any more special. Losing that weight will allow you to spend more Thanksgivings and Christmases with your family. Obesity will cut your life short.

The start of your new, healthier lifestyle should start NOW. There is no reason to delay this!

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