Is Obesity really a problem? (3)

                    I interviewed Diane, a dietitian, and Ellen, a registered nurse, who have both specialized in working with overweight and obese patients. They were in agreement that certain diets that concentrate on eliminating carbohydrates and increasing the intake of protein (meat) can lead to weight loss. However, they say that over the long haul, there can be negative secondary effects.  This is confirmed by a medical chart called Maintaining a Healthy Weight It states: "Low-carbohydrate diets, especially if undertaken without medical supervision, can be dangerous." It continues:" They are undesirably high concentration of Ketone bodies (a byproduct of fat metabolism)." If you are considering a low carbohydrate diet, be sure to consult a doctor first.

If it is your goal to lose weight do not despair. "Weight control isn't impossible, nor does it need to mean deprivation or a boring, repetitious diet," says Dr. Walter C Willett. With conscious effort and creativity, most people can successfully control their weight for the long term with an enjoyable but reasonable die and near daily exercise.


                           How important is exercise?

Dr. Willett:" Other than smoking, exercise is the single best thing you can do to get healthy or stay healthy and keep chronic diseases at bay." How often should one exercise? What are the benefits of physical effort?
Some experts advise that daily exercise, if only for 30 minutes, can be very beneficial. But it is suggested that even exercising three times a week can help one avoid serious problems in the future. Exercise burns calories, and the predominant question for someone who is trying to lose weight should be, each day am I burning up calories than i am taking in? If the equation is reverse, then you will surely gain weight. So walk or cycle instead of riding in a vehicle. Climb stairs instead of taking elevator. Exercise! Burn calories!
Dr. Willett explains:" For many people, walking is an excellent alternative to other types of physical activity because it doesn't require any special equipment, can be done time and any place, and is generally quite safe." His advice, of course, refers to brisk walking, not just taking a stroll. He recommends 30 minutes of physical activity every day if possible.
             
                                 Is Surgery the best Solution?

In any effort to lose weight and to prevent future weight gain, some severely obese patients have followed the advice of barbaric (obesity) specialists who recommend various surgical procedures. Who might qualify for these surgical solutions? The writers of the book Mayo clinic on Healthy weight suggest the following:" Your doctor may consider surgery if your body mass index s above, an indication that you are severely obese." The Mayo Clinic Health Letter suggest: "Surgery for obesity is generally recommended only for people between the ages of 18 and 65 with a body mass index over 40 whose obesity is creating a serious medical risk."
What are some of these surgical procedures? They are small-bowel bypass, gastric portioning, gastroplatic, ad gastri bypass. This latter procedure involves stapling across the top stomach, leaving a small pouch that holds only about 14 grams of food. The small intestine then cut and attached to this pouch. Thus, most of the stomach is bypass as well as the duodenum.
         
                        Is Liposuction the answer for you?

What is Liposuction? One dictionary defines it as: "Usually cosmetic surgical procedure in which excess fatty issue is removed from a specific area of the body, such as the thighs or abdomen, by means of suction. Also called suction lipectomy."(American Heritage Dictionary) However, does that mean it is remedy for obesity?
The Mayo Clinic on healthy Weight says that liposuction is cosmetic surgery. It is not a weight-loss plan. Fat cells are sucked of the body by means of a narrow tube inserted under the skin. Several kilograms can be removed in one session. However, "the surgery isn't a treatment for obesity." Is it a safe procedure? "People with certain weight-related medical conditions, including diabetes and heart disease, are at increase risk of complication liposuction."

So if you are overweight or obese, what can you about it? The old adage is true, "where there's a will, there's a way." Do you have the motivation and the willpower to do something about it? As an overweight child or an overweight adult, what are your choices? Lose weight or possible lose years of life. Adopt an active-style, and feel the satisfaction of accomplishment - even in small things, such as smaller sizes in your clothing!


Joel