There is a common misconception that nuts are "good for you". When I see patients who have had a difficult weight loss week, aside from questions about alcohol usage, I will inquire about the use of nuts. When I inform the patient that nuts are NOT conducive for good weight loss, I often hear "But THEY say that almonds are "good" for you!". My question back is "Who are "THEY"?
I think that "THEY" are the same people who told you not to go swimming after you ate because you will have cramps and drown....now come on people, how many kids did you ever know that ate food and then almost drowned?
Small repetitive food sources, like nuts and popcorn will derail weight loss efforts. Nuts are a high fat item and are not a recommended foof source if tyou are trying to lose weight.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
weight and addiction
Thanks to Ellen for providing the topic of this blog....
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/36081881/ns/health-diet_and_nutrition/from/ET
The above link discusses a study in animals demonstrating that binging on high-caloric foods develops into a brain addiction pattern similar to cocaine and other abused drugs.
There are chemical mediators of the addictive process and the above study shows the nature of high-caloric binging and how this becomes a chemically driven addictive behavior.
Keeping those food sources out of the house that would be enabling the binging behavior goes a long way in preventing this self-destructive behavior.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/36081881/ns/health-diet_and_nutrition/from/ET
The above link discusses a study in animals demonstrating that binging on high-caloric foods develops into a brain addiction pattern similar to cocaine and other abused drugs.
There are chemical mediators of the addictive process and the above study shows the nature of high-caloric binging and how this becomes a chemically driven addictive behavior.
Keeping those food sources out of the house that would be enabling the binging behavior goes a long way in preventing this self-destructive behavior.
Monday, March 29, 2010
weight loss and dessert
Whenever you are at a restaurant and the meal is over, the waiter or waitress will approach the table and say "did anyone save room for dessert?"
Does "save room" mean that we are still hungry? Lets be honest...after eating a full meal in a restaurant, does any of us actually feel a sensation called "hunger"?
The answer is a resounding "NO"...there is no way that we feel that physical sensation..what we see in front of us is a dessert tray of ice creams, chocolate cakes, carrot cakes etc...our brain will tell us that they would taste great, but the brain is not telling us that we are hungry.
Try to respond to your sense of "hunger" and not make a dessert selection and most certainly NOT right after a meal.
Does "save room" mean that we are still hungry? Lets be honest...after eating a full meal in a restaurant, does any of us actually feel a sensation called "hunger"?
The answer is a resounding "NO"...there is no way that we feel that physical sensation..what we see in front of us is a dessert tray of ice creams, chocolate cakes, carrot cakes etc...our brain will tell us that they would taste great, but the brain is not telling us that we are hungry.
Try to respond to your sense of "hunger" and not make a dessert selection and most certainly NOT right after a meal.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
weight loss and awareness
We encourage everyone to keep a food diary and write down what they are eating..everything should be recorded...even if there was a food sorce that is "not allowed". Studies have shown that people who write down everything they are eating have a 50% increased efficiency of weight loss compared to people who do not. I dare say that less than 10% of our patients write down what they are eating. Why? Because everyone is busy with life events...work, children, other family issues, professional stress etc. Most of us have barely time to breathe during the day no less write down everything we eat.
Keeping a food journal allows us to keep an awareness of what calories/food sources are getting in and it allows us to think about/mentate much more . As mentioned many times previously, to lose weight and keep that weight off, we must think about these issues constantly. As soon as we stop thinking about it, we are almost guaranteed to go back to old eating behaviors.
Try to keep your awareness heightened and this will serve you well in reaching your goal of becoming happier and healthier.
Keeping a food journal allows us to keep an awareness of what calories/food sources are getting in and it allows us to think about/mentate much more . As mentioned many times previously, to lose weight and keep that weight off, we must think about these issues constantly. As soon as we stop thinking about it, we are almost guaranteed to go back to old eating behaviors.
Try to keep your awareness heightened and this will serve you well in reaching your goal of becoming happier and healthier.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
weight loss around America
First, thanks for the kind comments from "Anonymous" yesterday...i am very glad we are helping you well along your journey to become healthier and happier....
Today Dr Vicki Falcone is visiting from Philadelphia. Dr. Falcone runs a highly successful aesthetic practice in PA/NJ. (Sorry..no free botox for anyone todAY!)
Dr Falcone is bringing the Serotonin-Plus Program to her patients and is here to find out more about how we see our patients in followup.
More physicians need to be involved in helping their patients lose weight. "Help" is not simply handing a patient a 1200 calorie diet sheet and expecting your patients to follow this to the letter. People need support in their efforts, sometimes need a medical jumpstart, and as obesity is the nation;s largest health concern, all physicians need to step up and get more involved. Unfortunately, managed care does not support these efforts so many physicians simply do not have the time to become involved. As I have not read the thousands of pages of the new health plan (I decided not to read any of it as soon as it became apparent that tort reform was not addressed at all with this new bill. Any effort to stem healthcare costs without addressign tort reform is a joke..plain and simple....now go on and post your comments....go for it...but I stand by this...litigation attornies support the people who came up with this bill so this was their payoff...keep throwing frivilous lawsuits at the medical profession without any penalty if you lose your case....then have every doctor ordering bunches of unnecessary tests to protect their a---es. This is exactly what should have been addressed.)
Anyway, back to the issue today: Kudos to Dr. Falcone and her staff for becoming active in their quest to help their patients not only look younger but also become healthier.
Today Dr Vicki Falcone is visiting from Philadelphia. Dr. Falcone runs a highly successful aesthetic practice in PA/NJ. (Sorry..no free botox for anyone todAY!)
Dr Falcone is bringing the Serotonin-Plus Program to her patients and is here to find out more about how we see our patients in followup.
More physicians need to be involved in helping their patients lose weight. "Help" is not simply handing a patient a 1200 calorie diet sheet and expecting your patients to follow this to the letter. People need support in their efforts, sometimes need a medical jumpstart, and as obesity is the nation;s largest health concern, all physicians need to step up and get more involved. Unfortunately, managed care does not support these efforts so many physicians simply do not have the time to become involved. As I have not read the thousands of pages of the new health plan (I decided not to read any of it as soon as it became apparent that tort reform was not addressed at all with this new bill. Any effort to stem healthcare costs without addressign tort reform is a joke..plain and simple....now go on and post your comments....go for it...but I stand by this...litigation attornies support the people who came up with this bill so this was their payoff...keep throwing frivilous lawsuits at the medical profession without any penalty if you lose your case....then have every doctor ordering bunches of unnecessary tests to protect their a---es. This is exactly what should have been addressed.)
Anyway, back to the issue today: Kudos to Dr. Falcone and her staff for becoming active in their quest to help their patients not only look younger but also become healthier.
Friday, March 26, 2010
weight loss and holidays
First, I would ask that questions about pricing and other logistical questions about our program be addressed not as a comment to this blog but rather directly to our office: 703-866-4144
The upcomign week is spring break for many with school age children. This often involves travel to areas where it is very challenging to remain on a high protein high vegetable, low carb/low fruit food intake strategy,
If you are in fact leaving the area for soem vacation destination try very hard to seek restaurants that offer you choices compatible with your food needs. Buffet restaurants are not a good choice. Eating meals at theme parks also present a challenge. Additionally, if your trip involves many driving hours, planning in advance where you will stop to eat may have a very favorable effect on your efforts to "stay the course".
Additionally, psychologically, sometimes we mentally feel that we "need a break" from "dieting". Try to mentate throiugh this....we are NOT "dieting" but rather, trying to change lifestyle to allow us to be happier , healthier, look younger etc.
Plan your trip carefully and think about how you can have a great time on your trip and not derail your efforts.
The upcomign week is spring break for many with school age children. This often involves travel to areas where it is very challenging to remain on a high protein high vegetable, low carb/low fruit food intake strategy,
If you are in fact leaving the area for soem vacation destination try very hard to seek restaurants that offer you choices compatible with your food needs. Buffet restaurants are not a good choice. Eating meals at theme parks also present a challenge. Additionally, if your trip involves many driving hours, planning in advance where you will stop to eat may have a very favorable effect on your efforts to "stay the course".
Additionally, psychologically, sometimes we mentally feel that we "need a break" from "dieting". Try to mentate throiugh this....we are NOT "dieting" but rather, trying to change lifestyle to allow us to be happier , healthier, look younger etc.
Plan your trip carefully and think about how you can have a great time on your trip and not derail your efforts.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
weight loss and resolve
There is not a day that goes by that I do not see a number of patients who lament that it was a difficult week becuase they became distracted with other issues in their lives. To mlosw weight requires planning, counting portions, and otherwise thining about it constantly. When distracted, we tend to make quick decisions which leads us to the high-caloric choices that got us into the weight problem to begin with. Also, losing weight requires making choices...choices involving giving up things that we like to do...wine at night...snack foods before bed etc.
I implore my patients to always keep in thje forefront of their minds WHY it is so important for them to lose weight. YOU are making the choice to become healthier and happier...look younger....wear clothes that look great on you, etc. These are GREAT choices...but they require your RESOLVE to "make it happen". Losing weight is an active activity..gaining weight is passive. Your resolve is required to be successful in your efforts.
I implore my patients to always keep in thje forefront of their minds WHY it is so important for them to lose weight. YOU are making the choice to become healthier and happier...look younger....wear clothes that look great on you, etc. These are GREAT choices...but they require your RESOLVE to "make it happen". Losing weight is an active activity..gaining weight is passive. Your resolve is required to be successful in your efforts.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
weight loss and counting portions
Yesterday I placed several new patients into our program and there was a commonality: all had been in previous weight loss efforts and all seemed frustrated that "counting portions" was a necessary part of our program. I most certainly understand that frustration as we all have many important things going on in our lives, and worrying whether we just ate 4 ounces of chicken vs. 6 oounces at times is a nusance.
Unfortunately there is no way around this. The Atkins plan did seem originally to get around this as no counting was necessary....eat all the protein and fat you wanted...just no fruits and carbs. No counting was necessary. However, studies have come out showing that over 98% of the patients who follow that plan put ALL of their weight back on within a year. Why? Because eating NO carbs and NO fruits is completely artificial, and as soon as the person goes back to eating carbs and fruits, if portions are not counted, every bit of the weight will go back on.
Losing weight is work...no question about this...it is a matter of maximizing proteins and vegetables, minimizing carbs and fruits and avoiding alcohol. Counting portions is work...but the work results in you being much healthier, happier, looking younger, looking great in your clothes, having energy etc. Yes, counting portions is lots of work, but the results warrant the efforts.
Unfortunately there is no way around this. The Atkins plan did seem originally to get around this as no counting was necessary....eat all the protein and fat you wanted...just no fruits and carbs. No counting was necessary. However, studies have come out showing that over 98% of the patients who follow that plan put ALL of their weight back on within a year. Why? Because eating NO carbs and NO fruits is completely artificial, and as soon as the person goes back to eating carbs and fruits, if portions are not counted, every bit of the weight will go back on.
Losing weight is work...no question about this...it is a matter of maximizing proteins and vegetables, minimizing carbs and fruits and avoiding alcohol. Counting portions is work...but the work results in you being much healthier, happier, looking younger, looking great in your clothes, having energy etc. Yes, counting portions is lots of work, but the results warrant the efforts.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
weight loss and needing help
I have covered this topic before, but yesterday I had a number of patients come back into our program who had lost a considerable amount of weight before but unfortunately put back on a majority of that weight. All felt embarrassed that: 1-they allowed all the weight to go back on and 2-they needed our help again in getting the weight off.
I tried very hard to take these feelings away from the patients and not have them feel the sense of being "losers". The gaining of weight is easy...the loss and maintenacne of that loss is very difficult. If losing weight was easy, 68% of the American population would not be overweight.
Needing help? The overwhelming majority of overweight people do need help. Rare is the overweight person who can lose weigjht on their own and maintain that weight loss. Needing help is not a sign of weakness, ineptitude or lack of intelligence. Rather, needing help to lose weight is the "norm".
We are here to help you in your efforts to become healthier and happier. If you need our help, do not feel bad about this...pick up the phone and call!
I tried very hard to take these feelings away from the patients and not have them feel the sense of being "losers". The gaining of weight is easy...the loss and maintenacne of that loss is very difficult. If losing weight was easy, 68% of the American population would not be overweight.
Needing help? The overwhelming majority of overweight people do need help. Rare is the overweight person who can lose weigjht on their own and maintain that weight loss. Needing help is not a sign of weakness, ineptitude or lack of intelligence. Rather, needing help to lose weight is the "norm".
We are here to help you in your efforts to become healthier and happier. If you need our help, do not feel bad about this...pick up the phone and call!
Monday, March 22, 2010
weight loss and healthcare reform
Many patients have asked me about what my thoughts are about the healthcare reform that was passed by the House yesterday. To be honest, I have not reviewed the documents and it is my suspician that many of the house members didnt read the entire thing either.
If it doesn't address tort reform and does not focus on the prevention of disease states (with obesity being the biggest culprit) then it fails in the most important issues contributing to the burgeoning costs of healthcare.
If there is no tort reform, physicians will continue to order billions of dollars of unneccesary testing to protect themselves against the free shot that malpractice lawyers can take at them. Just check out the "Have you been injured?" tv commercials and billboards you see. I am certain the Trial Lawyers of America just love this new bill. More potential clients.
If monies are not directed aggressively to controlling the obesity epidemic in America, billions dollars more will be spent treating the diabetes complications, heart disease, cancers and other co-morbidities of weight problems. If insurance companiies are not forced to cover these types of preventative services, then the bill has failed miserably.
For my medical patients: This bill affects nothing related to your care at our office. We have always been and will continue to be just a phone call away from being there for you and your families' medical needs.
If it doesn't address tort reform and does not focus on the prevention of disease states (with obesity being the biggest culprit) then it fails in the most important issues contributing to the burgeoning costs of healthcare.
If there is no tort reform, physicians will continue to order billions of dollars of unneccesary testing to protect themselves against the free shot that malpractice lawyers can take at them. Just check out the "Have you been injured?" tv commercials and billboards you see. I am certain the Trial Lawyers of America just love this new bill. More potential clients.
If monies are not directed aggressively to controlling the obesity epidemic in America, billions dollars more will be spent treating the diabetes complications, heart disease, cancers and other co-morbidities of weight problems. If insurance companiies are not forced to cover these types of preventative services, then the bill has failed miserably.
For my medical patients: This bill affects nothing related to your care at our office. We have always been and will continue to be just a phone call away from being there for you and your families' medical needs.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
weight loss and customer service
Yesterday I noticed a comment from someone (anonymous) who had some pretty negative things to say about his/her encounter with the office , in that he/she felt some mixed signals were delivered from the Nurse Manager who saw her and then did not get a return phone call from the dietician..
Few things: 1- I only know about these things when someone brings this to my attention so I thank "Anonymous" for notifying me
2- I am certain it is not the perception of the nurse or RD that you were given mixed signals and then ignored, so I need to debrief them as to how we failed you, as clearly perception is reality and you felt that you were given mixed signals and ignored, so that is reality. Then I can take the steps to correct the situation to ensure that your experience is much better the next time.
3- Does anyone know Jenny Craigs cell phone number? How about the Doctor who developed the medical franchise Doctors Weight Loss Centers? Well, here is mine: 703-609-0388. We strive to provide great service for anyone, but if anyone out there feels that we have let them down and they cannot get satisfaction from calling my staff, then you know how to get me directly.
If you or anyone else are not getting satisfaction here, then you know how to reach me directly. This would avoid anyone having to post a complaint anonymously on my blog, which I try to use to inspire people to keep in the "zone" to be successful in their weight loss efforts. More important for people who are not in their visits anymore because it is so easy to fall out of that zone. I always return phone calls placed on my desk the same day they are delivered to me so please feel free to call and ask that I personally get back to you if there is a complaint that is not being addressed aggressively and correctly by my staff.
We try to keep 100% of our patients happy 100% of the time, but when we do not, we, as an organization are commited to trying to make things right. You have my pledge and my phone number.
Few things: 1- I only know about these things when someone brings this to my attention so I thank "Anonymous" for notifying me
2- I am certain it is not the perception of the nurse or RD that you were given mixed signals and then ignored, so I need to debrief them as to how we failed you, as clearly perception is reality and you felt that you were given mixed signals and ignored, so that is reality. Then I can take the steps to correct the situation to ensure that your experience is much better the next time.
3- Does anyone know Jenny Craigs cell phone number? How about the Doctor who developed the medical franchise Doctors Weight Loss Centers? Well, here is mine: 703-609-0388. We strive to provide great service for anyone, but if anyone out there feels that we have let them down and they cannot get satisfaction from calling my staff, then you know how to get me directly.
If you or anyone else are not getting satisfaction here, then you know how to reach me directly. This would avoid anyone having to post a complaint anonymously on my blog, which I try to use to inspire people to keep in the "zone" to be successful in their weight loss efforts. More important for people who are not in their visits anymore because it is so easy to fall out of that zone. I always return phone calls placed on my desk the same day they are delivered to me so please feel free to call and ask that I personally get back to you if there is a complaint that is not being addressed aggressively and correctly by my staff.
We try to keep 100% of our patients happy 100% of the time, but when we do not, we, as an organization are commited to trying to make things right. You have my pledge and my phone number.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
weight loss and mood
Sometimes we eat high caloric foods when we are happy...weddings, gatherings, parties, etc...at other times, we eat those derailing foods when we are sad. Why is it that mood changes can affect our eating behaviors?
In the case of a low mood, often there are chemical components to the eating process...high-caloric foods create an immediate "feel-good" but that only lasts for a short period of time . This is then followed by self-loathing for having given in to that destructive behavior.
In the case of happiness, this tends to be more social as opposed to chemical...everyone is drinking the wine, eating the cake, etc..so why not me too?
Trying tom mentate through the mood changes and the effect on our eating and "staying the course" is important for long term weight control.
In the case of a low mood, often there are chemical components to the eating process...high-caloric foods create an immediate "feel-good" but that only lasts for a short period of time . This is then followed by self-loathing for having given in to that destructive behavior.
In the case of happiness, this tends to be more social as opposed to chemical...everyone is drinking the wine, eating the cake, etc..so why not me too?
Trying tom mentate through the mood changes and the effect on our eating and "staying the course" is important for long term weight control.
Friday, March 19, 2010
weight loss and the spring
First, I want to thank Anonymous for the comment yesterday....At times, I rag on companies (like fast food restaurants), insurance companies, doctors, the government, lawyers, politicians, etc. as these relate to the obesity crisis in America. (Laughing...why did i throw lawyers into this group? Because we all rag on lawyers...kind of like blaming the dog when a malodorous smell occurs! And now I will get an angry e-mail from one of my best contributors to this blog dissing me for ragging on lawyers again!)
Seriously, I do not mean to lump "all" politicians, doctors, insurance company execs etc. as being evil and purposefully contributing to the obesity crisis. There are MANY physicians, who despite NOT being reimbursed by insurance companies, will spend much time with patients trying to help with preventative care. Physicians, nurses and teachers will spend lots and lots of time helping people and are NOT on that good old billable hour clock like some other professions (oops...lawyers got dissed again). My comments about physicians are more about the lack of training we get in helping with weight loss and the lack of time that is available to become involved. I have an incredible respect for my colleagues on many many fronts. I LOVE staying involved with my primary care practice and am LUCKY to be able to also have a role in helping people lose weight...not just my own patients but others.
Warm weather is here,.,we are shedding those winter clothes and can now envision the scene at the swim club pool that is only 3 months away. GREAT time to start exercising more than we did during the winter. If walking is yout thing, please consider interval training...walk for a bit...then time a slight jog for 20-30 secomnds....then walk again for 2 minutes..then the slight jog again. Getting the heart rate up and down will burn off more calories and as you shed the weight, you will find yourself able to spend more time in the jogging mode.
Donna Eckenrode, the very BEST Physicians Assistant in the country, is running a marathon this weekend, and has GREAT training tips. Feel free to contact Donna if you would like some insights as to how to build up endurance.
Seriously, I do not mean to lump "all" politicians, doctors, insurance company execs etc. as being evil and purposefully contributing to the obesity crisis. There are MANY physicians, who despite NOT being reimbursed by insurance companies, will spend much time with patients trying to help with preventative care. Physicians, nurses and teachers will spend lots and lots of time helping people and are NOT on that good old billable hour clock like some other professions (oops...lawyers got dissed again). My comments about physicians are more about the lack of training we get in helping with weight loss and the lack of time that is available to become involved. I have an incredible respect for my colleagues on many many fronts. I LOVE staying involved with my primary care practice and am LUCKY to be able to also have a role in helping people lose weight...not just my own patients but others.
Warm weather is here,.,we are shedding those winter clothes and can now envision the scene at the swim club pool that is only 3 months away. GREAT time to start exercising more than we did during the winter. If walking is yout thing, please consider interval training...walk for a bit...then time a slight jog for 20-30 secomnds....then walk again for 2 minutes..then the slight jog again. Getting the heart rate up and down will burn off more calories and as you shed the weight, you will find yourself able to spend more time in the jogging mode.
Donna Eckenrode, the very BEST Physicians Assistant in the country, is running a marathon this weekend, and has GREAT training tips. Feel free to contact Donna if you would like some insights as to how to build up endurance.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
weight loss and responsibiltiy
I saw yesterday that several of the soft drink companies are only putting in lower caloric sodas in schools than have been there previously. With childhood and adolescent obesity being epidemic, this is quite the responsible act. Companies have the "responsibility to the stockholders"...i.e. make as much money as possible, but when the bottom line is better even though people are being hurt, then one has to wonder about the sense of responsibility the ownership/managemnet of the company feels. Hey, one way of looking at this is the following: People are responsible for their own actions...we have "diet sodas" available and therefore we are providing a choice for people. We are not forcing them to drink regular sodas".
Protecting people against themselves is a controversial subject. Yes, we make the choice as to whether to drink a diet soda or a regular one, but what I have learned running the Serotonin-Plus Weight Loss Program is that being overweight is not a "choice". If it was, 68% of America would not be overweight and 38% obese. Human behavior patterns, genetics, chemical cravings etc make us a weight-gaining specie. Adolescents do not think about heart disease, diabetes, co-morbidities etc...that is why the choice needs to be made for them..i.e. do not make it easy for them to get the high sugar drinks. Adults? Presumably they are better positioned to make their own choices and take responsibility. Eliminate sugar sodas altogether? Hardly...Tax them higher? I am okay with this....
Taking responsibility for the obesity crisis has to be bourne by both the individual, governmnet, insurance companies and corporate America.
Protecting people against themselves is a controversial subject. Yes, we make the choice as to whether to drink a diet soda or a regular one, but what I have learned running the Serotonin-Plus Weight Loss Program is that being overweight is not a "choice". If it was, 68% of America would not be overweight and 38% obese. Human behavior patterns, genetics, chemical cravings etc make us a weight-gaining specie. Adolescents do not think about heart disease, diabetes, co-morbidities etc...that is why the choice needs to be made for them..i.e. do not make it easy for them to get the high sugar drinks. Adults? Presumably they are better positioned to make their own choices and take responsibility. Eliminate sugar sodas altogether? Hardly...Tax them higher? I am okay with this....
Taking responsibility for the obesity crisis has to be bourne by both the individual, governmnet, insurance companies and corporate America.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
weight loss and other physicians
I can't help but to write about this subject again, as yesterday I had the chance to visit a very large cardiology group in the area. Excellent physicians...great reputation. Our reason for the visit was to inform them more about our weight loss program and how we can help their patients lessen their risks for another heart event or protect them against their first.
In house, I found that their focus on weight loss was pretty much non-existent...they obviosuly tell their patients who are overweight to lose that weight, but they really have no formal way of helping them. This is a group of over 15 doctors seeing hundreds of patients per day. Of these patient encounters, I would bet that many of the patients are overweight and their chances of living longer would be significantly enhanced by the loss of weight. Yet, this group, like every other group, really has no formal mechanism in place to help them. Hence, the reason why I visitied for lunch yesterday...to offer them our services.
Why is it that physicians do not offer formal weight loss services inhouse? I think the reasons are many but they certainly include the fact that insurance companies do not recognize this type of service and physicians are being killed by the ever-declining managed care rates, and they cannot possibly fund a nutritional consultant, prolonged visits focusing on diet etc.
If we could get a handle on the obesity crisis in America, we would have billions of dollars of less healthcare expenditures per year. Physicians, who are best positioned to help patients, are hardly involved in this process. There is something very wrong with this picture. Great weight loss programs such as ours (hmmm..i just patted my own back) should not be only available to people who can afford it. However, physicians who rely on managed care reimbursement for their services are completely "de" insentivized to spend more time with patients on preventative care measures...and therefore they dont get involved. Your thoughts?
In house, I found that their focus on weight loss was pretty much non-existent...they obviosuly tell their patients who are overweight to lose that weight, but they really have no formal way of helping them. This is a group of over 15 doctors seeing hundreds of patients per day. Of these patient encounters, I would bet that many of the patients are overweight and their chances of living longer would be significantly enhanced by the loss of weight. Yet, this group, like every other group, really has no formal mechanism in place to help them. Hence, the reason why I visitied for lunch yesterday...to offer them our services.
Why is it that physicians do not offer formal weight loss services inhouse? I think the reasons are many but they certainly include the fact that insurance companies do not recognize this type of service and physicians are being killed by the ever-declining managed care rates, and they cannot possibly fund a nutritional consultant, prolonged visits focusing on diet etc.
If we could get a handle on the obesity crisis in America, we would have billions of dollars of less healthcare expenditures per year. Physicians, who are best positioned to help patients, are hardly involved in this process. There is something very wrong with this picture. Great weight loss programs such as ours (hmmm..i just patted my own back) should not be only available to people who can afford it. However, physicians who rely on managed care reimbursement for their services are completely "de" insentivized to spend more time with patients on preventative care measures...and therefore they dont get involved. Your thoughts?
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
weight loss and "paying for It"
First, concerning the question posed on the comments yesterday: artificial sweeteners seem to have no adverse impact on weight loss efforts..long term effects of Nutrasweet/Splenda etc? No defined studies showing increase cancer rates but we can never go wrong with drinking water as our beverage of choice!
Today's topic is about a human trait of being motivated when we "pay for something". One of the aspects that contgributes to the success of any weight loss program or effort is the person paying money for it. We, as humans, tend to want to "get our monies' worth". hence the rreason why cruise ships and all-inclusive resorts are not a good vacation for a person trying to lose weight...put ourselves in a situation where we are paying the same price whether we eat/drink more or less and guaranteed we will feel the pressure to eat/drink more so as to get the full value of what we paid for. Similarly, when people are paying money for weight loss efforts, there is an added incentive/motivation to be successful in the efforts.
How can we create a sense of "paying for it" when we are really not? Obviously, we love to see our patients but we also root for your success in keeping that weight off. Perhaps buying clothes (expensive) that will only fit when weight is maintained/further loss occurs? Other ideas?
Think about how you can provide a sense of "paying for it" even when you leave your visits. This can only help in your continued success.
Today's topic is about a human trait of being motivated when we "pay for something". One of the aspects that contgributes to the success of any weight loss program or effort is the person paying money for it. We, as humans, tend to want to "get our monies' worth". hence the rreason why cruise ships and all-inclusive resorts are not a good vacation for a person trying to lose weight...put ourselves in a situation where we are paying the same price whether we eat/drink more or less and guaranteed we will feel the pressure to eat/drink more so as to get the full value of what we paid for. Similarly, when people are paying money for weight loss efforts, there is an added incentive/motivation to be successful in the efforts.
How can we create a sense of "paying for it" when we are really not? Obviously, we love to see our patients but we also root for your success in keeping that weight off. Perhaps buying clothes (expensive) that will only fit when weight is maintained/further loss occurs? Other ideas?
Think about how you can provide a sense of "paying for it" even when you leave your visits. This can only help in your continued success.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Weight Loss...Wolves in Sheeps Clothing
Last week we had several patients query anout such food items as sugarless ice cream, low fat cakes and that good old Three Musketeer far that adertises 33% lless fat.
Warning Warning WARNINg Do not be fooled! These food items still contain plenty of calories and will ost likely derail your plans for losing weight.
Dont believe the advertized hype, eating these food sources will hinder your efforts for weight loss.
Warning Warning WARNINg Do not be fooled! These food items still contain plenty of calories and will ost likely derail your plans for losing weight.
Dont believe the advertized hype, eating these food sources will hinder your efforts for weight loss.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
weight loss and priorities
First, thanks John for finding us in cyberspace....we do have a tracking system on this blog whivh lets me know exactly who reads this blog so if you start missing it, we will know.....laughing...nah....teasing you....
Okay...to business: I want to discuss "priority"....
Every day we make decisions on what we are going to do that day, who we are going to interact with, what monies we are going to spend and where we will spend it...we basically develop a priority list of things that need to happen first, second, third and so on..sometimes we are multitasking and doing lots of things at once, but most certainly if something is of very high priority we will do what it takes to accomplish this fitst.
Okay, lets talk about our health....if God forbid some major illness struck, our entire lives would be tunred upside down. Things that seemed important sucha s a stock market drop or anger at a news event would seem completely and uttterly meaningless. When we have our health in good order, these smaller issues will take priority.
Making our health a priority is something that is incredibly important, yet seems to all too frequesntly take a back seat to other issues that should be a much less priority. Satisfying an urge for a high-caloric food source should be a very very low priority yet often it comes at the head of our list. Instinctual in nature? Chemically driven? Perhaps. Yet, I urge everyone to make health your highest priority because if you are healthy, you can be there to address all of the other issues on your priority list.
Okay...to business: I want to discuss "priority"....
Every day we make decisions on what we are going to do that day, who we are going to interact with, what monies we are going to spend and where we will spend it...we basically develop a priority list of things that need to happen first, second, third and so on..sometimes we are multitasking and doing lots of things at once, but most certainly if something is of very high priority we will do what it takes to accomplish this fitst.
Okay, lets talk about our health....if God forbid some major illness struck, our entire lives would be tunred upside down. Things that seemed important sucha s a stock market drop or anger at a news event would seem completely and uttterly meaningless. When we have our health in good order, these smaller issues will take priority.
Making our health a priority is something that is incredibly important, yet seems to all too frequesntly take a back seat to other issues that should be a much less priority. Satisfying an urge for a high-caloric food source should be a very very low priority yet often it comes at the head of our list. Instinctual in nature? Chemically driven? Perhaps. Yet, I urge everyone to make health your highest priority because if you are healthy, you can be there to address all of the other issues on your priority list.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
weight loss and control
First, Jenny and Karen, thank you very much for the very nice comments....sometimes at 530 am as I am writing this I think to myself: "Are my patients too busy to read this stuff and if they do, is it helping them?"....so to see these comments is my motivation to keep jotting down these thoughts and experiences....
Last night we had a staff dinner to introduce several new members of our team. We have an assistant Medical Director now of the national expansion ..Dr Laura Balda, a family physician from Boynton Beach Florida. She is a very dedicated and committed physician who will be helping other offices around the country set up and administer their Serotonin-Plus Programs. This will allow me to be where I need to be...in BUrke Virginia seeing MY wonderful patients!!!
Food sometimes controls us as opposed to us controlling the food. I sometimes find myself compelled to eat that third slice of pizza (shhhh..dont tell anyone reading this that the self-professed "Guru" of weight loss eats pizza and is even known to eat a Twinkie on occasion). Especially under periods of stress and/or anxiety we find ourselves losing control and reaching for food sources that we know inherently we should not be eating, but yet we do.
WE CONTROL THE FOOD INTAKE. I suggest that if you ever feel in that mode where the food is taking over control, get yourself away from the kitchen or whereever it is that you feel compelled to eat. Think of some other activity that will distract you and reward yourself in some non-caloric way for winning this little mind battle.
Have a great Saturday.
Last night we had a staff dinner to introduce several new members of our team. We have an assistant Medical Director now of the national expansion ..Dr Laura Balda, a family physician from Boynton Beach Florida. She is a very dedicated and committed physician who will be helping other offices around the country set up and administer their Serotonin-Plus Programs. This will allow me to be where I need to be...in BUrke Virginia seeing MY wonderful patients!!!
Food sometimes controls us as opposed to us controlling the food. I sometimes find myself compelled to eat that third slice of pizza (shhhh..dont tell anyone reading this that the self-professed "Guru" of weight loss eats pizza and is even known to eat a Twinkie on occasion). Especially under periods of stress and/or anxiety we find ourselves losing control and reaching for food sources that we know inherently we should not be eating, but yet we do.
WE CONTROL THE FOOD INTAKE. I suggest that if you ever feel in that mode where the food is taking over control, get yourself away from the kitchen or whereever it is that you feel compelled to eat. Think of some other activity that will distract you and reward yourself in some non-caloric way for winning this little mind battle.
Have a great Saturday.
Friday, March 12, 2010
weight loss and liposuction
First, thank you Heather for your very kind comment....I try to use this blog as a way of getting into your head everyday with some thoughts about weight issues. Losing weight requires thought...gaining weight is a complete no-brainer...I know that if I can get my patients to "think about it" more often, there is a better chance of long-term success in keeping on track and maintaining the weight loss....if my patients get caught up thinking about business, jobs, their family issues etc., then they will start reverting to old eating behavior patterns and uh, oh...weight back on. I really root for your success in keeping the weight off. I love seeing my patients, our accountant loves your visits, but I do strive to help you keep the weight off...I would rather have one new patient to help then have 10 of my established patients have to come back and pay more money to us to help them lose the weight they put back on. We are of course ALWAYS happy to see our patients and especially do not want them to feel embarrassed or guilty if weight went back on and our help is needed again. It is our pleasure to help you. However, we really do want to help you maintain the weight loss without having to pay us more money. This blog is one of the support tools. Thats why I get up and write it every day.
Yesterday I visited a cosmetic physician in Philadelphia who performs lots of liposuctions. Dr Falcone will be bringing the Serotonin-Plus Program to her patients. She is an incredibly passionate physician who really cares lots about her patients. Not to knock aesthetic physicians, but there are many who do the botox, perform liposuction and other procedures that are really only cosmetic in nature. Yes, they make their patients look younger but not necessarily healthier. Dr. Falcone is a unique physician who really cares lots about the health of her patients as well. She and her practice will be launching the program in April at their offices in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Once again, remember that liopsuction or fat injuections (lipodissolve and others) are NOT weight loss procedures but rather body sculpting procedures. If you are trying to lose weight, do not be tempted to try to use liposuction as a means of weight loss. Weight loss requires WORK....following a low caloric dietary plan and preferably increasing exercise. The work is very worthwhile...losing weight makes you healthier and happier.
Yesterday I visited a cosmetic physician in Philadelphia who performs lots of liposuctions. Dr Falcone will be bringing the Serotonin-Plus Program to her patients. She is an incredibly passionate physician who really cares lots about her patients. Not to knock aesthetic physicians, but there are many who do the botox, perform liposuction and other procedures that are really only cosmetic in nature. Yes, they make their patients look younger but not necessarily healthier. Dr. Falcone is a unique physician who really cares lots about the health of her patients as well. She and her practice will be launching the program in April at their offices in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Once again, remember that liopsuction or fat injuections (lipodissolve and others) are NOT weight loss procedures but rather body sculpting procedures. If you are trying to lose weight, do not be tempted to try to use liposuction as a means of weight loss. Weight loss requires WORK....following a low caloric dietary plan and preferably increasing exercise. The work is very worthwhile...losing weight makes you healthier and happier.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
weight loss and America
Yesterday I was interviewed and filmed at the office by a Romanian journalist. (I may not be known in the United States because of an Oprah appearance but now I am a star in Romania!...laughing)
She asked me about why Americans seem to have a much larger problem with obesity than Europeans.
There are most definitely several factors and this comes from talking to lots of European patients who now live here. First, portion control: Europeans are amazed at the size of the portions that are served here. Just last night I ventured into a TGI Fridays. They have these specials for under 20 bucks that deliver a huge appetizer (fried cheese and other hiogh-caloric items), an even bigger main course with potatoes of course and a very big dessert. All for under 20 bucks!!!
Another issue: Activity....Europeans apparently walk much more than we do...seems that we seem to drive everywhere whereas the Europeans build more walking time into their days.
A third issue: Fast food restaurants...apparently we have many more here than in Europe.
I am certain there are many more reasons, but theese are just a few.
And, oh, by the way, I did end my interview byt telling her that even though we are one of the heaviest countries in the world, we are also the best. You know, before I end this entry I just thought back to when I was a kid and would visit my grandparents from Russia who lived here. They LOVED America and LOVED the fact that their grandkids were Americans. In Russia they were persecuted because of religion and here they lived in the country of opportunity and freedom. They studied English at nite while toiling at very low paid jobs and they were so proud when they became citizens. Whenever my grandmother Sarah would see me she would always give me two things no matter what time of day: One of those small bottles of Coca Cola and a Nestle chocolate bar. Why? In her mind these were very American items and her grandchild was American. So, I guess I just took some more of yout time reading about some personal issues for me, but I couldn't help but think that here I was, just two generations later, being interviewed by a journalist from a country right near where my grandparents fled, and i was being interviewed because they found us to be the fastest growing medically supervised weight loss prgram in the country. We may be overweight, and we are working on it, but as my thoughts went back to my grandparents, I couldnt help but feel tremendous pride in being an American and being so thankful to my grandparents for working so hard to become citizens of our great countyr and giving me the opportunity to grow up in our great country.
She asked me about why Americans seem to have a much larger problem with obesity than Europeans.
There are most definitely several factors and this comes from talking to lots of European patients who now live here. First, portion control: Europeans are amazed at the size of the portions that are served here. Just last night I ventured into a TGI Fridays. They have these specials for under 20 bucks that deliver a huge appetizer (fried cheese and other hiogh-caloric items), an even bigger main course with potatoes of course and a very big dessert. All for under 20 bucks!!!
Another issue: Activity....Europeans apparently walk much more than we do...seems that we seem to drive everywhere whereas the Europeans build more walking time into their days.
A third issue: Fast food restaurants...apparently we have many more here than in Europe.
I am certain there are many more reasons, but theese are just a few.
And, oh, by the way, I did end my interview byt telling her that even though we are one of the heaviest countries in the world, we are also the best. You know, before I end this entry I just thought back to when I was a kid and would visit my grandparents from Russia who lived here. They LOVED America and LOVED the fact that their grandkids were Americans. In Russia they were persecuted because of religion and here they lived in the country of opportunity and freedom. They studied English at nite while toiling at very low paid jobs and they were so proud when they became citizens. Whenever my grandmother Sarah would see me she would always give me two things no matter what time of day: One of those small bottles of Coca Cola and a Nestle chocolate bar. Why? In her mind these were very American items and her grandchild was American. So, I guess I just took some more of yout time reading about some personal issues for me, but I couldn't help but think that here I was, just two generations later, being interviewed by a journalist from a country right near where my grandparents fled, and i was being interviewed because they found us to be the fastest growing medically supervised weight loss prgram in the country. We may be overweight, and we are working on it, but as my thoughts went back to my grandparents, I couldnt help but feel tremendous pride in being an American and being so thankful to my grandparents for working so hard to become citizens of our great countyr and giving me the opportunity to grow up in our great country.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
weight loss and accountability
One of the reasons that people lose weight in a medically supervised program is the accountability that people feel. While in a program, once a week the person needs to get on a scale in front of a medical professional. This produces a psychological motivation to be successful in losing weight, as there is some sort of desire not to "disappoint" the medical practitioner. Clearly, in reality, you are the one paying the physician for your visits, and presumably, the physician and staff do not feel disappointment at all if your weight does not come down aggressively. Rather, the medical staff tries to figure out how the weight loss could be more aggressive. However, when someone weighs him/herself at home, there is no one else to see the results. Pressure is off.
How can we, the Serotonin-Plus staff, keep that motivation going after your formal visits are complete? As much as we tell you there is no "finish line" when it comes to your efforts to lose weight, often when people leave their formal visits, a finish line is perceived and slowly the person starts returning to the old behaviors that caused the weight problem to begin wth.
I strongly suggest that when you leave your formal visits, you still schedule a once a month visit to our office to get the INBODY scan perfomred. This will cost you NOTHING. Put this in your schedule as an appointment similar to when you had your fromal visits here. Do not miss that "appointment". JUst show up, tell the front staff you want a body composition test, and we will be happy to do this for you. No charge. If you see a weight gain over 5 pounds that occurred since your last visit, we can then have you stay for a formal appointment with us. We will provide one week of medication, get you refocused and motivated and those 5 pounds will take you one week to lose. This one real visit will cost you far less than another 12 week program because of a 20-30 pound gain. If the weight is remaining under control each month at the scan, then no one-time formal visit is needed....your body scan is free of course.
Perhaps the above suggestion will create a psycholgical accountability that will help you maintain the weight loss you worked so hard to achieve.
How can we, the Serotonin-Plus staff, keep that motivation going after your formal visits are complete? As much as we tell you there is no "finish line" when it comes to your efforts to lose weight, often when people leave their formal visits, a finish line is perceived and slowly the person starts returning to the old behaviors that caused the weight problem to begin wth.
I strongly suggest that when you leave your formal visits, you still schedule a once a month visit to our office to get the INBODY scan perfomred. This will cost you NOTHING. Put this in your schedule as an appointment similar to when you had your fromal visits here. Do not miss that "appointment". JUst show up, tell the front staff you want a body composition test, and we will be happy to do this for you. No charge. If you see a weight gain over 5 pounds that occurred since your last visit, we can then have you stay for a formal appointment with us. We will provide one week of medication, get you refocused and motivated and those 5 pounds will take you one week to lose. This one real visit will cost you far less than another 12 week program because of a 20-30 pound gain. If the weight is remaining under control each month at the scan, then no one-time formal visit is needed....your body scan is free of course.
Perhaps the above suggestion will create a psycholgical accountability that will help you maintain the weight loss you worked so hard to achieve.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
weight loss and taxes
I have brought this issue up previously but the news was focusing again on this controversy so I thought it was worthy to bring up again.
New York is getting close to enacting the concept of putting a "sin" tax on sugar based sodas. The concept is that if a person would pay more money for a sugar based soda than other non-caloric beverages, that person may be apt to consume less. A study came out showing this exact fact: when taxes are placed on these sugar based sodas, people do in fact buy less of them.
Has cigarette consumption dropped considerably since excessive taxes were placed on these years ago? The answer is yes.
But where does this stop? Should bagels be taxed higher than wheat bread? Should chocolate bars be taxed higher thah vegetables? Does the government have the right to differentially tax items and make it more difficult to afford the foods we like?
Posner's thoughts: If a people's individual behavior choices resulted in health/financial impacts only on themselves, then there should be no "financial penalty" enacted on that person at all. If they consume more health care because of their eating and/or smoking patterns and they are paying for this "extra" medical care, then their decisions impact on no one else. However, if other people's insurance premiums rise because of this, then in fact, an individual should bear some cost for unhealthy behavior patterns. I do believe that society as a whole "pays" for the co-morbidities of weight/smoking/alcohol problems and "sin" taxes on obvious items of health-destruction are a good idea. Incentivize people to eat and drink healthy. Your thoughts?
New York is getting close to enacting the concept of putting a "sin" tax on sugar based sodas. The concept is that if a person would pay more money for a sugar based soda than other non-caloric beverages, that person may be apt to consume less. A study came out showing this exact fact: when taxes are placed on these sugar based sodas, people do in fact buy less of them.
Has cigarette consumption dropped considerably since excessive taxes were placed on these years ago? The answer is yes.
But where does this stop? Should bagels be taxed higher than wheat bread? Should chocolate bars be taxed higher thah vegetables? Does the government have the right to differentially tax items and make it more difficult to afford the foods we like?
Posner's thoughts: If a people's individual behavior choices resulted in health/financial impacts only on themselves, then there should be no "financial penalty" enacted on that person at all. If they consume more health care because of their eating and/or smoking patterns and they are paying for this "extra" medical care, then their decisions impact on no one else. However, if other people's insurance premiums rise because of this, then in fact, an individual should bear some cost for unhealthy behavior patterns. I do believe that society as a whole "pays" for the co-morbidities of weight/smoking/alcohol problems and "sin" taxes on obvious items of health-destruction are a good idea. Incentivize people to eat and drink healthy. Your thoughts?
Monday, March 8, 2010
weight loss and pressure
First, Suzanne, very sad story about your sister and thrombotic events are related to weight factors. We usually become motivated to lose weight because of aesthetic reasons but the medical ramifications of weight issues can in fact be life threatening.
Last night I was watching the Academy Awards and during the Red Carpet interviews I was amazed to see that for most actresses they appeared waif thin. They were wearing fabulous gowns and one after the other, these beautiful actresses were being interviewed and strolling on the red carpet to the delight of many fans watching their every move.
The pressure to be model-thin is not a healthy motivation. Losing weight to avoid thrombotic events, stroke, diabetes and all of the co-morbidities are the "healthy" motivators. Being waif thin so you look better than the other actresess is not a healthy motivator. When someone is in an industry predicated by appearance (acting, performing, modeling etc) there is tremendous pressure to be thin and as well chronicled in the newspapers concerning several of these actrssess and models, eating disorders can develop.
Yes, losing weight makes us look younger and more appealing to ourselves and others, but the pressure to be waif thin can be destructive.
Last night I was watching the Academy Awards and during the Red Carpet interviews I was amazed to see that for most actresses they appeared waif thin. They were wearing fabulous gowns and one after the other, these beautiful actresses were being interviewed and strolling on the red carpet to the delight of many fans watching their every move.
The pressure to be model-thin is not a healthy motivation. Losing weight to avoid thrombotic events, stroke, diabetes and all of the co-morbidities are the "healthy" motivators. Being waif thin so you look better than the other actresess is not a healthy motivator. When someone is in an industry predicated by appearance (acting, performing, modeling etc) there is tremendous pressure to be thin and as well chronicled in the newspapers concerning several of these actrssess and models, eating disorders can develop.
Yes, losing weight makes us look younger and more appealing to ourselves and others, but the pressure to be waif thin can be destructive.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
weight loss and your friends and family
How much of a responsibility do you have in encouraging/faciliting a loved one or friends weight control issues? A very sensitive subject matter to approach with someone special in your life. We all understand how weight issues and the co-morbidities can kill people, yet we find ourselves still "nururing" our loved ones with food sources.
Think of Christmas, birthday celebrations and other holidays/occasions when we bake cookies, cook an abundance of high-caloric food sources and provide these to our loved ones...some or many of whom may have significant weight issues.
It is awkward to approach a loved one and suggest weight control initiatives. We know that the affected person knows he/she is overweight so we are pointing out soemthing that they already know and are senstive about. However, to remain silent and not try to intervene and help is akin to watching a loved one about ready to be hit by a train and not yelling for them to get out of the way.
The first step is for YOU to be a role model. If you have a weight control issue, start working on that problem rigjht now. By you showing the control and initiative, your loved ones may feel compelled to follow suit. You may not only be saving yourswlf, you will be allowing your loved ones to also be healthier and happier,
Think of Christmas, birthday celebrations and other holidays/occasions when we bake cookies, cook an abundance of high-caloric food sources and provide these to our loved ones...some or many of whom may have significant weight issues.
It is awkward to approach a loved one and suggest weight control initiatives. We know that the affected person knows he/she is overweight so we are pointing out soemthing that they already know and are senstive about. However, to remain silent and not try to intervene and help is akin to watching a loved one about ready to be hit by a train and not yelling for them to get out of the way.
The first step is for YOU to be a role model. If you have a weight control issue, start working on that problem rigjht now. By you showing the control and initiative, your loved ones may feel compelled to follow suit. You may not only be saving yourswlf, you will be allowing your loved ones to also be healthier and happier,
Saturday, March 6, 2010
weight loss and buffets
Last night i ventured over to the gaylord hotel for dinner and there was an Italian Market buffet restuarant open. Lots of healthy choices on the buffet..salads, proteins, vegetables etc. However, lots of challenging sources....pasta bar, pizza and of course, the dessert bar. All the food at the same price.
The words always preceding the advertising of a buffet is: "ALL YOU CAN EAT"
Buffet restaurants test the very fabric of human nature....when we pay for something we tend to feel compelled to get our monies' worth.
Stay awai from "All You Can Eat" situations as there will be much less temptation to reach for food sources that will derail your efforts to be happier and healhier.
The words always preceding the advertising of a buffet is: "ALL YOU CAN EAT"
Buffet restaurants test the very fabric of human nature....when we pay for something we tend to feel compelled to get our monies' worth.
Stay awai from "All You Can Eat" situations as there will be much less temptation to reach for food sources that will derail your efforts to be happier and healhier.
Friday, March 5, 2010
weight loss and fast food restaurants
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2010/mar/03/weight-watchers-mcdonalds-obesity
The above linked was provided by Ellen and dicusses how in New Zealand, Weight Watchers is teaming up with McDonalds to affix the Weight Watchers logo to several of the food items on the McDonalds menus...the chicken sandwich and the McNuggets. This "endorsement" of Weight Watchers will presumably help overweight people feel better about entering the hallowed hallways of the largest fast food chain.
I would point out that when you compare the growth charts of fast food restaurants in America that growth exactly parallels the growth of obesity in America. When our patients tell us baout buying premium salads, taking he buns off of the burgers, only eating a few fries etc, I tell them that it is dangerous and sabotaging to ever go into a fast food restaurant. The marketing of their "value" meals, saving money when you order the larger sizes etc...all of these are sabotaging your efforts to be happier and healthier. The overweight rate in the African American population is over 85% and many fast food tv commercials are geared to appeal to African Americans.
No, you will NEVER see Serotonin-Plus logos at a fast food restaurant. The argument would be "well, if you just eat the chicken, diet soda, etc, you willl not be eating many calories". But my argument is that there exists such a thing as human nature and when an overweight person walks into a fast food resturant, sees the pictures of those big juicy burgers and smells those fries, then control becomes lost and the Big Mac Attack occurs.
I always praised Weight Watchers Company in this blog as their program is based on real food and behavior modification. Today I am a bit disappointed. Walking through the doors of any fast food restaurant for an overweight person is not behavior modicfication and will present incredible challenges.
The above linked was provided by Ellen and dicusses how in New Zealand, Weight Watchers is teaming up with McDonalds to affix the Weight Watchers logo to several of the food items on the McDonalds menus...the chicken sandwich and the McNuggets. This "endorsement" of Weight Watchers will presumably help overweight people feel better about entering the hallowed hallways of the largest fast food chain.
I would point out that when you compare the growth charts of fast food restaurants in America that growth exactly parallels the growth of obesity in America. When our patients tell us baout buying premium salads, taking he buns off of the burgers, only eating a few fries etc, I tell them that it is dangerous and sabotaging to ever go into a fast food restaurant. The marketing of their "value" meals, saving money when you order the larger sizes etc...all of these are sabotaging your efforts to be happier and healthier. The overweight rate in the African American population is over 85% and many fast food tv commercials are geared to appeal to African Americans.
No, you will NEVER see Serotonin-Plus logos at a fast food restaurant. The argument would be "well, if you just eat the chicken, diet soda, etc, you willl not be eating many calories". But my argument is that there exists such a thing as human nature and when an overweight person walks into a fast food resturant, sees the pictures of those big juicy burgers and smells those fries, then control becomes lost and the Big Mac Attack occurs.
I always praised Weight Watchers Company in this blog as their program is based on real food and behavior modification. Today I am a bit disappointed. Walking through the doors of any fast food restaurant for an overweight person is not behavior modicfication and will present incredible challenges.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
weight loss and immediate gratification
A very quick one-liner from "Anonymous"...."Cause we like the cookies"
This was a response to my blasting the Girl Scouts of America organization for the irresponsibility of selling cookies outside of every supermarket to raise funds. With childhood obesity the most dangerous health concern facing America, how responsible is this to sell high-caloric cookies?
Well, one persons response: "Cause we like them"....I think this reflects most peoples immediate response. Eating a high caloric food cource provides an immediate gratification. Makes us feel good for a few seconds. The taste, the reward, the satiation...all of these are an immediate gratification.
Losing weight lessens risks for serioud medical diseases, makes us look lots younger and more physically attractice , allows us to wear much more fashionable clothes and heightens our energy levels....NONE of which occur immediately. All of these take weeks if not months to realize. The food source is an immediate gratification, the positive effects of weight loss are a delayed gratification.
Unfortunately, our instinctual behavior mechanisms make us , to a great extent, an immediate gratification specie. Least you doubt that, look at the average credit card debt in America and the average savings rate. The widescreen TV sure seems much more important than saving for our retirement.
Yep, we like those cookies but we sure dont like being on a hospital gurney being wheeled into a cardiac cath suite, we don't like being in front of an oncologist talking about the options of chemo vs. radiation for breast cancer, and we don't enjoy running away from people taking pictures because we are embarrassed about how we look. Being healthy, confident with a higher self esteem and wearing those clothes we would love to wear...these are all things we like too. Do you like those more than a girl scout cookie?
Make the donation and leave the cookies on their table. And Girl Scouts of America: Think of something besides cookies to sell America.
This was a response to my blasting the Girl Scouts of America organization for the irresponsibility of selling cookies outside of every supermarket to raise funds. With childhood obesity the most dangerous health concern facing America, how responsible is this to sell high-caloric cookies?
Well, one persons response: "Cause we like them"....I think this reflects most peoples immediate response. Eating a high caloric food cource provides an immediate gratification. Makes us feel good for a few seconds. The taste, the reward, the satiation...all of these are an immediate gratification.
Losing weight lessens risks for serioud medical diseases, makes us look lots younger and more physically attractice , allows us to wear much more fashionable clothes and heightens our energy levels....NONE of which occur immediately. All of these take weeks if not months to realize. The food source is an immediate gratification, the positive effects of weight loss are a delayed gratification.
Unfortunately, our instinctual behavior mechanisms make us , to a great extent, an immediate gratification specie. Least you doubt that, look at the average credit card debt in America and the average savings rate. The widescreen TV sure seems much more important than saving for our retirement.
Yep, we like those cookies but we sure dont like being on a hospital gurney being wheeled into a cardiac cath suite, we don't like being in front of an oncologist talking about the options of chemo vs. radiation for breast cancer, and we don't enjoy running away from people taking pictures because we are embarrassed about how we look. Being healthy, confident with a higher self esteem and wearing those clothes we would love to wear...these are all things we like too. Do you like those more than a girl scout cookie?
Make the donation and leave the cookies on their table. And Girl Scouts of America: Think of something besides cookies to sell America.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
weight loss and fashion
I cannot believe I slammed the Girlscouts Organization yesterday and I didnt get one comment calling me out....where are my feisty anonymous posters????
We are starting to move aggressively on event planning for our First Annual Serotonin-Plus Fashion Show. We are having difficulty finding the best charity to work with to donate clothes. We contacted the "Dress For Success" organization and they were pretty complacent about their interest in partnering with us so we are seeking a more local charity that collects clothes and distributes to people who are down on their luck and needing clothes to get back into the workplace. Anyone have thoughts on this??? Local church group that does this??? Other organiztion??? We are trying to keep the clothes local to the DC, Maryland, Virginia area.
Event will be Saturday, June 19, 2010...at Bobby McKeys piano bar at the National Harbor. I spoke with Bobby two weeks ago and he is thrilled to host our event. He has a really fun place for those of you who have not been there previously. We will have the entire place for ourselves, a great stage that will serve as our runway, a piano player providing the music that each person would like to accompany their stroll and Serotonin-Plus will provide lots of snacks, mostly compatible with your weight loss efforts. A cash bar will be open. This event will be beyond fun and it will also be doing some great stuff for the charity we choose. I have invited Ms. Obama and a number of local politicians (hope they dont read my blog about the stuff I write about politicians). There will be physicians coming in from other areas of the country who are now doing our program in their practices. They would love to meet our patients. We will also be seeking local media coverage for the event. PLEASE attend the event even if you do not want to stroll the runway. We would LOVE for you to be there and certainly participate. MARK JUNE !( ON YOUR CALENDER!!!!! 3PM!!!!!!
We are starting to move aggressively on event planning for our First Annual Serotonin-Plus Fashion Show. We are having difficulty finding the best charity to work with to donate clothes. We contacted the "Dress For Success" organization and they were pretty complacent about their interest in partnering with us so we are seeking a more local charity that collects clothes and distributes to people who are down on their luck and needing clothes to get back into the workplace. Anyone have thoughts on this??? Local church group that does this??? Other organiztion??? We are trying to keep the clothes local to the DC, Maryland, Virginia area.
Event will be Saturday, June 19, 2010...at Bobby McKeys piano bar at the National Harbor. I spoke with Bobby two weeks ago and he is thrilled to host our event. He has a really fun place for those of you who have not been there previously. We will have the entire place for ourselves, a great stage that will serve as our runway, a piano player providing the music that each person would like to accompany their stroll and Serotonin-Plus will provide lots of snacks, mostly compatible with your weight loss efforts. A cash bar will be open. This event will be beyond fun and it will also be doing some great stuff for the charity we choose. I have invited Ms. Obama and a number of local politicians (hope they dont read my blog about the stuff I write about politicians). There will be physicians coming in from other areas of the country who are now doing our program in their practices. They would love to meet our patients. We will also be seeking local media coverage for the event. PLEASE attend the event even if you do not want to stroll the runway. We would LOVE for you to be there and certainly participate. MARK JUNE !( ON YOUR CALENDER!!!!! 3PM!!!!!!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
weight loss and the Girl Scouts
Uh oh...today's entry is going to be sacriligious....Posner is going aftet the Girl Scout Organization.
You cannot exit any supermarket now without having very sweet girls approach you and offer to sell you boxes of cookies, with the money being directed to support the organiztion and activities. Of coursem the Girl Scouts is a wonderful organization, but why cookies??? The nation's largest health problem is childhood obesity and here is an organization for children selling the most high-caloric cookies imaginable (ever look at the calorie count of the Tag Alongs??).
People have said "Just make a donation...dont get the cookies.."..but for an overweight person who is challenged daily in their lives, it is easy to part with a monetary donation and forego the gift that is offered? Hardly easy for sure. Human nature often does not allow us to walk away without the cookies. Some of the groups are offering to send the cookies to soldiers. I postede a blog entry months ago about the military having difficulty recruiting members because of weight problems.
Why cant they be selling plants, key chains, a piece of artwork, postcards or something else that has nothing to do with calories? I think I know the answer: they would get less donations...Americans love our Girl Scout cookies....
Anyway, sorry to accuse a wonderfully respected establishment of irresponsibility, so bring on those nasty anonymous comments....but I stand by it: Girlscout Organiztion: Think of something to sell to America other than high-caloric cookies.
You cannot exit any supermarket now without having very sweet girls approach you and offer to sell you boxes of cookies, with the money being directed to support the organiztion and activities. Of coursem the Girl Scouts is a wonderful organization, but why cookies??? The nation's largest health problem is childhood obesity and here is an organization for children selling the most high-caloric cookies imaginable (ever look at the calorie count of the Tag Alongs??).
People have said "Just make a donation...dont get the cookies.."..but for an overweight person who is challenged daily in their lives, it is easy to part with a monetary donation and forego the gift that is offered? Hardly easy for sure. Human nature often does not allow us to walk away without the cookies. Some of the groups are offering to send the cookies to soldiers. I postede a blog entry months ago about the military having difficulty recruiting members because of weight problems.
Why cant they be selling plants, key chains, a piece of artwork, postcards or something else that has nothing to do with calories? I think I know the answer: they would get less donations...Americans love our Girl Scout cookies....
Anyway, sorry to accuse a wonderfully respected establishment of irresponsibility, so bring on those nasty anonymous comments....but I stand by it: Girlscout Organiztion: Think of something to sell to America other than high-caloric cookies.
Monday, March 1, 2010
weight loss and healthcare reform
Lst week I was watching a bit of the summit taking place where there were a bunch of politicians jockeying for position as to how to look good to the public in their quest to enact healthcare reform.
I have an easy statrt to this process that would save billions of dollars:
1- TORT REFORM.....Billions of dollars are wasted by physicians ordering unnecessary tests on patients to cover their asses in the event a lawyer comes snooping around the chart. It is a free shot by lawyers against doctors in this country. How about this: Lawyers can sue whatever doctor they want,.,,but if the doctor wins the case, the lawyer and client have to pay for all the court costs, legal fees and time spenrt away from the practice the doctor had to experience. Hey, if they have a good case, they shouldn't worry about that possibility, right? The President has said that tort reform is off the table...my question: Why??? This is an easy way to save billions...you not taxing anyone for the money and not cutting fees or services to anyone...But, one has to wonder how many of the politicians around that table are having their campaigns funded by the American Trial Lawyers Association.
2- Force insurance companies to offer coverage for preventative services...obviously, weight loss is a major preventative service that should be a mandatory coverage. Smoking cessation efforts would be the other major service.
Anyway, these are Posner's thoughts for whatever they are worth. As politicians posture for public approval, billions of dollars of waste are occurring. I suppose we can all do our part by trying to become as healthy as possible.
I have an easy statrt to this process that would save billions of dollars:
1- TORT REFORM.....Billions of dollars are wasted by physicians ordering unnecessary tests on patients to cover their asses in the event a lawyer comes snooping around the chart. It is a free shot by lawyers against doctors in this country. How about this: Lawyers can sue whatever doctor they want,.,,but if the doctor wins the case, the lawyer and client have to pay for all the court costs, legal fees and time spenrt away from the practice the doctor had to experience. Hey, if they have a good case, they shouldn't worry about that possibility, right? The President has said that tort reform is off the table...my question: Why??? This is an easy way to save billions...you not taxing anyone for the money and not cutting fees or services to anyone...But, one has to wonder how many of the politicians around that table are having their campaigns funded by the American Trial Lawyers Association.
2- Force insurance companies to offer coverage for preventative services...obviously, weight loss is a major preventative service that should be a mandatory coverage. Smoking cessation efforts would be the other major service.
Anyway, these are Posner's thoughts for whatever they are worth. As politicians posture for public approval, billions of dollars of waste are occurring. I suppose we can all do our part by trying to become as healthy as possible.
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