Although the title of this entry would initially suggest I am about to bring up a topic that will infuriate a bunch of people, there is no way that I would send out a blog describing my personal views on social or political issues in the U.S. My “value” to you is as a doctor, not a political or social pundit. The “Pro Choice” and “Pro Life” I am referring to is the concept of “choices” we all make as these relate to our weight control and “Life” meaning the years we have on this earth.
There are clear derailing food/drink sources and actions that will prevent successful weight control:
- Alcohol intake
- Excessive carbohydrate consumption
- Skipping meals
- Late night sugary snack usage
There are many more bullet points that can be added to this list.
There are clear and significant benefits that accompany successful weight control including:
- Reducing the need for medications to treat weight-related co-morbidities
- Lowering the risk of developing life threatening diseases such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease
- Looking years younger
- Experiencing less pain
- Having more energy
- Elevating levels of confidence and self-esteem
Unfortunately, we cannot “have it all” and we often are forced into making choices when it comes to whether we follow the script necessary to lose the weight vs. choosing the immediate gratification food/drink sources that will block weight loss. I wish there was a “pill” I developed that would allow everyone to drink and eat what they wanted and still achieve/maintain a healthy weight. Unfortunately that “pill” or treatment does not exist, so we are left having to make choices.
I am VERY much “Pro Choice” in wanting my patients to “choose” the lifestyle and behaviors needed to control the weight because I am “Pro Life” in wanting my patients to live long and healthy lives. “Choose” the path needed to control the weight and your “life” will be a better one.