Chapter 1: Understanding Obesity

Taking care of our bodies is a personal choice that can enhance our well-being both physically and mentally.

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Recently, my son completed a school project about the health implications of obesity. He had numerous questions that I attempted to address as sensitively as possible. Advocates of body positivity often assert that embracing one's body at any size is essential—encouraging everyone to confidently wear swimwear, embrace their natural shape, and celebrate their uniqueness.

However, my perspective comes from a different era. As a member of Generation X, I began taking diet pills during my junior high and high school years due to a bit of thigh fat. By age 16, I found myself working at a gym, selling memberships, and training clients much older than me. My fixation on body image was intense; I was determined never to have any excess fat.

My friends and I exercised with great intensity, often taking diet pills and consuming excessive amounts of ephedrine, even venturing into more dangerous substances to achieve weight loss.

As I entered middle age, my weight has fluctuated due to pregnancies and changing metabolism. Stress eating is a challenge for me, and significant life changes can lead to unwanted weight gain. I hadn’t owned a scale for several years, opting instead to weigh myself at the gym. However, after moving, experiencing a family death, and starting a new job, I noticed my clothes no longer fit. When I finally weighed myself, I was shocked by the number. I felt a heavy sense of disbelief and regret.

How did my weight creep up on me?

I associate weight gain with shame. Consequently, I quickly established a strict regimen of calorie tracking, intense workouts, and avoided sweets. I ditched flour and sugar, returning to healthier options like juices and smoothies.

Fear accompanies my weight gain. When I gain ten or twenty pounds, my clothes feel tight, I become breathless, and my self-confidence plummets. I dislike the roundness of my face and the presence of a belly. I am also self-conscious about the cellulite on my legs, which affects my self-esteem.

Fortunately, my husband offers unwavering support and loves me no matter my size. His affection alleviates any fear I have in our relationship. He appreciates me with a few extra pounds, so why do I hold onto this body-shaming mindset? I wonder if it stems from societal pressures, as women can be competitive, and I desire to look my best. Ultimately, the judgment I feel is largely self-imposed.

I strive to feel at ease in my own skin. I want to embrace my true self and recognize that I feel best when I eat well and exercise. While I may never return to a size zero, I do wish to tone areas like my arms and thighs. I seek a flat stomach and want to feel strong and confident in my swimsuit, regardless of my curves.

I wish to maintain my energy and stamina for my children and, eventually, my grandchildren. I don’t harbor any bias against others who are overweight, even if the BMI chart classifies me as obese, but I do grapple with my own struggles.

Interestingly, my teenage son can be critical of my fitness habits. He is dedicated to working out and lifting weights, and at 13, his metabolism allows him to maintain his physique without concern. Although I know he means well, his comments about pushing myself harder in the gym and inquiries about my Peloton routine can feel personal. He aspires to be a fitness trainer and is genuinely passionate about exercise.

I admire his determination, but I sometimes take it to heart. I balance a full-time job while driving him around, and after a long day, I often lack the energy or motivation to work out. I remind myself that it’s okay; children may not grasp the complexities of adult life.

After my eye-opening experience with the scale, I joined a hot yoga class, realizing how much I missed the sense of community and movement. I cherished the feeling of being hot and sweaty, focusing intensely on poses, which allowed my mind to find calmness. This meditative practice is healing, and by my second session, I felt stronger, more connected to myself, and in tune with my body.

This isn’t about sparking a debate over what is deemed good or bad, fat or thin. Sometimes, we allow ourselves to fall into unhealthy patterns, and it can feel overwhelming to reclaim our former selves. The journey involves taking baby steps.

In a moment of desperation, I discovered a workout plan on Instagram, purchased from a seemingly fit personal trainer. Though I may have been misled, I began his workouts and invested in supplements, aiming to realign my health inside and out.

I genuinely care about my well-being. With my parents and grandparents passing away at a young age, I am acutely aware of the dangers of neglecting my health. While shopping for groceries, I see endless rows of unhealthy options that I know won’t nourish my body. The cravings and addictions can be overwhelming, leading to choices that ultimately don’t benefit my mental or physical health.

The fleeting pleasure from unhealthy foods is not worth the toll it takes on my body. I have experienced various dietary lifestyles, from raw vegan to vegetarian, yet recently allowed myself more indulgences, which only led to weight gain.

For me, abstinence is crucial. I have been alcohol-free for 25 years and have eliminated harmful substances from my life. What differentiates sugary pastries from those choices? Those indulgent coffee drinks and confections load me with empty calories, leaving me feeling sluggish and unwell. They don’t contribute to my best self.

I desire more from life—I want happiness. I want to wake up energized, excited about attending yoga classes, and connecting with like-minded women. I want to hop on my Peloton and feel empowered. I refuse to age in a way that leads to pain and immobility.

Health and fitness are my passions, and I don’t feel like my authentic self when I’m carrying excess weight. I dislike the idea of going up a size, and I refuse to purchase clothing in larger sizes. The presence of a belly pooch, double chins, and cellulite is not something I want to accept.

My naturopath has informed me that my estrogen levels can be affected by excess weight, further motivating me to stay fit. I thrive on green juices, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, as they bring me contentment.

This isn’t about labeling actions as good or bad; it’s about how you choose to live. How do you truly want to exist? What legacy do you wish to leave for your children? You can become the person you want to be—no more excuses. I’m tired of making excuses for myself and hearing others do the same.

We have choices. We are not victims of our circumstances. We possess the power to exercise self-control and make healthier decisions that enhance our lives and longevity. We are capable beings, resilient and strong. Throughout history, women have achieved remarkable things, and we are empowered.

I support body positivity and reject body shaming, but there comes a time when we must acknowledge that being unhealthy is not an option.

Some may argue that dieting, restricting calories, and focusing on body image can be detrimental. Others insist that limiting food intake leads to negative consequences.

Yet, in our country, there are 160 million individuals who are overweight or obese. We often resist acknowledging the truth that our habits can harm our health. It is indeed challenging to maintain self-control amid the barrage of unhealthy food options designed to entice us.

But who truly benefits from these habits? Not us.

We hold the ultimate power over our choices regarding what we consume. We are not victims of our circumstances.

I would love to hear your thoughts on this subject! Please feel free to share your insights for a respectful discussion.

Chapter 2: The Obesity Epidemic

This video delves into the obesity epidemic, examining its causes and implications for health and society.

Chapter 3: The Choice of Obesity

This video explores whether obesity is a choice, discussing the various factors that influence weight and health.