Why do we REALLY want to lose weight?

From a medical standpoint, we all know there are many excellent reasons to lose weight -- lower risk of heart disease, degenerative arthritis, diabetes, etc.

But, in my experience as a Family Doctor, I've learned that often the non-medical reasons speak louder!

Non-medical reasons for losing weight include the following. We'll keep adding to this list as time goes on!

• Wanting to buy clothes "off the rack."
• Sizing up chairs before sitting, to find a chair we know won't break or topple over.
• Feeling embarrassed when people watch us eat. We think they're making judgements!
• Dreading the possibility of needing a seatbelt extender on an airplane.
• Going to a class reunion -- or deciding not to go because we feel too heavy.
• Stepping out of the dating arena because we feel undesirable.
• Splitting a seam in your pants -- in front of God and everybody!
• Worrying that you won't be able to take care of yourself after an injury.
• Feeling out of synch with what we are trying to portray (i.e. the obese physician).
• Feeling out of control with eating too much, and knowing it isn't "glandular."

What are the non-medical reasons that resonate with you? Your doctor may be concerned about your cholesterol reading. And, certainly, you should be, too. But you may be more compelled by a comment your child makes, or a sudden realization that you're making life adjustments on account of your weight.

As we get started, reflect on your own reasons. THOSE are the reasons that really count!

We're all in this together.
Linda Gromko, MD

"I'm not doing anything differently!"

In my Family Practice, I frequently hear concerns of patients who have gained weight. I ask about their exercise and dietary habits, but so often, the response is this:

"I'm not doing anything differently! I'm eating the same. I'm exercising the same, but I just keep gaining weight!"

They're right, of course. The problem -- so much of the time -- is the natural tendency of our bodies to lose muscle mass, beginning at about age thirty-five. Muscle tissue requires more energy (i.e. calories) just to occupy space on our bodies. It has a higher metabolic rate.

Therefore, as we lose this valuable muscle, our bodies simply need fewer calories to get by! And, if we continue to eat and exercise at the same level, we WILL gain weight.

The answer, of course, is to build and defend muscle tissue. We do this through strength training. This can be weight training through a fitness class, working out with a personal trainer, using resistance bands -- anything that builds muscle.

Many people worry that weight training will add bulk. Genetic women are unlikely to "bulk" with unwanted muscle. Transgendered women avoid builking by using lower weights with more repetitions. Men (genetic males and trans-men) -- just enjoy the natural effect of testosterone in building muscle mass. It will come easily!

We all benefit from strength training, particularly if maintaining or achieveing a normal weight is a goal.

As they say, "Put a little iron in your diet!" (In this case, pump iron!) It's almost guaranteed to help your weight maintenence efforts.

If you're a novice, work with an expert. Start with small weights and work up. Don't push through pain! And if you have any cardiovascular warning signals like chest pain or tightness, shortness of breath, or light-headedness while exercising, STOP! Get a medical evaluation promptly.

We're all in this together!
Linda Gromko, MD