The Battle of the Bulge
-A lot of Low-Key Action Using Positive Ammunition
When people become morbidly obese, it can create a myriad of problems that interferes severely with their lives. There are many weight loss retreats and wellness centers that succeed in changing lifestyles.
High on the list of these obstacles that are encountered are related to health. Heart disease, strokes, diabetes and often cancer are linked to excessive weight. Shortness of breath and the inability to walk up a flight of stairs are experienced as well, and when the weight is so extreme, people can’t even tie their shoelaces.
The socio-psychological impact of being overweight has a direct effect on a person’s feeling of self-worth. Up until the last decade, heavy people could not find a proper wardrobe. Stores now have special departments for women that cater to sizes that are well past 18 or 20. Men are also well served in stores that carry sizes above a 52” waistline. For the first time, overweight people have the resources to be fashionable. But this does not solve the problem of obesity. One of the most difficult issues to deal with is the self-consciousness that goes hand in hand with being heavy. People may inadvertently stare, they may even be rude enough to laugh, and sometimes avoid befriending them. They are frequently the last to get picked for a job and often the first to get fired. Family and friends, especially the children of the overweight, avoid going places with them and being exposed to the negative attention that they receive. One of the most abusive and embarrassing edicts was announced recently. If a passenger could not fit into one seat on a plane, they would have to purchase two tickets. Now the weight problem is costing hundreds of dollars more per flight.
The usual diets and luxury treatment spas are a temporary Band-Aid. There are several top-of-the-line wellness centers that deal with people who need the guidance and support of a very qualified staff, with specific regimes, diets and educational seminars.
By Anne Caufmann
Complete story in this issue of DASH.
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