According to some of the most recent data available, up to 34 percent of adults in America are considered obese, which now represents an eight-pound increase over a period of less than ten years. During the holidays, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas, which is just around the corner, it is becoming increasingly difficult for those who have weight problems to curb the appetite and reduce weight. Even if it does take one of those never-followed New Year's Resolutions, losing weight is perhaps one of the most important issues on the mind of Americans and those living in other industrialized societies.
Weight gain is not a secret, and neither is the loss of weight. Weight gain, in the most simplest of terms, is caused by an imbalance in the energy equation in the body, i.e., when one gains weight, it is typically due to more being put into the system than taken out of the system. Unless there is an underlying reason for gaining weight, i.e., thyroid problems, losing weight is not to be considered a best-kept secret and there are no real hidden agendas. One of the most common misconceptions concerning weight gain is that an increase in energy from fat is solely responsible for weight gain or that fat makes you fat. In fact, what should be realized is that it is really the total number of calories absorbed, regardless of its source, for example, fats, carbohydrates or proteins, coupled with a lack of output, or energy expenditure, that really makes one gains weight. Simply put, if one eats a large meal, regardless of the content, and does nothing afterward, he or she will store the food as added weight to the body. It's really that simple. What is done about it will determine what happens to the added weight. And, it is important to first check with your family clinician before embarking upon a rigorous exercise program, particularly if there is a history of heart problems or other ailments that need attention before the body is taxed.
What is considered healthy for one person might not be considered healthy for another person, so before comparing yourself to the model on television or in a fashion magazine, remember that everyone is different. The more important aspect of weight control should really be related to the health risks associated with the added weight and not appearances. That sounds good, but it is hardly typical for the American psyche. In America and other industrialized countries, the drive is actually associated with physical appeal; this, should, however, be the secondary reason for weight control. Sadly, it is not, and we all want to look like the model on television who is standing next to the car, which is what really drives the advertising industry. But, at the end of the day, what really counts is whether your body is healthy, and obesity, coupled with diabetes, heart problems, or hypertension, is likened to a ticking time bomb that will explode in time if not handled correctly. Because of these issues and others, it is important to check with your family clinician, i.e., physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner for guidance when anyone with these or other related health issues start a weight reduction program.
