Before we jump into the details of this blog entry, I want to state once again that I try to make these blog entries non-political in nature. My personal beliefs in politics, how/for whom I vote for and what my opinions are in non-medical situations should and will remain private. This blog is being written to inform, engage, inspire and motivate people to become healthier.
The title of this entry was a quote from then Presidential candidate Ronald Reagan that is one of the most remembered lines during a presidential debate. Back in 1980 the country was reeling from inflation, a very poor economy, gas supply problems and the American hostage situation in Iran was deflating as to our spirits. The Presidential race between then President Carter and Mr. Reagan was close going into the debate, but the debate turned the tide and in retrospect, the quote from President Reagan was thought to be the major reason that swayed voters: Clearly, people were not happy with the state of our country and their personal financial situations in 1980.
Turning our attention from politics in 1980 to the present day. Focusing on your medical situation: Are You Better Off Now Than You Were Four Years Ago?
Well, take a step back and think about this question as this relates to your health situation. Have there been any new medical diagnoses you have been labeled with in the last 4 years? Are there any new prescription medications you are now taking? Have you had any surgeries? Are you feeling less energy? Do you experience any new joint pains?
The aging process will of course increase the odds of us not being as healthy as we were 4 years ago. However, a very large contributing factor in health deterioration is poor weight control. Weight-related c0-morbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, chronic pain, sleep apnea, joint pains and other conditions certainly make us “worse off” than we were before these problems developed. Additionally, the immune system is adversely impacted and unlike 4 years ago when “Covid” sounded like a type of bug you would find in your house, we are now faced with a deadly virus and the mutations we need to deal with.
So, focusing on health, if your answer to the question posed in this blog is: “NO…I am NOT better off than I was 4 years ago”, then take the steps necessary to answer “YES” 4 years from now: Stay steadfast and focused on your weight control efforts.
(As an aside, when I was a Navy doctor in 1986 I was interviewed to be President Reagan’s doctor but I opted to leave the service and instead open up a private practice. A good decision…I have now had 32 great years of working with the very best patients a doctor could ask for…YOU!)