Weight Loss Factors: Genetics, Environment and Psychology
If we ask our doctor for his/her opinion on why this weight loss dilemma still persists, we will most likely receive and answer, for example, “that your weight depends on the number of calories you consume, how many of those calories you store, and how many you burn up” (Weigh Less, Live Longer: Strategies for Successful Weight Loss at http://www.health.harvard.edu).
Three widely accepted factors that do not always affect everyone with this problem and to the same degree are: genetics, environment and psychology. “For some people, the cause is so strongly genetic that they would be overweight regardless of other factors. For others, the genetic predisposition to be overweight is less powerful, and environmental factors have the dominant role….For some people, emotions play a dominant role, either because they tend to overeat in response to stressful situations or because they use food to diminish the effects of psychological trauma” (Weigh Less, Live Longer: Strategies for Successful Weight Loss). But in my opinion, all three can sometimes work together base on the views expressed by some people. The psychology of the mind (positive thinking and consistent mental effort) always receive good reviews and results, but weight loss management reqires a combination of issues and diverse efforts. My opinion is a sociological neighborly concerned view and not a medical scientific perspective.
As usual, the very most important factor is for each individual to consult with his/her doctor for a comprehensive health risk assessment and solutions options. “Successful weithtloss and healthly weight management depend on sensible goals for yourself…you’ll be more likely to meet them and have a better chance of keeping the weight off” (Setting Goals for Weight Loss at http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov). Basically, factors such as the type of food to be eaten, lifestyle chioces, the extent of physical activities, stressful situations and how you deal with them, age and others are the general points of norm when assessing the problem for possible solutions. But more importantly, issues like “If your treatment includes periodic monitoring, counselling or other activities….risks and complications densitiy factors….the credentials of the training staff assigned to assist you and others are even more critical for real long-term success (Setting Goals for Weight Loss).
Beyond a doubt, I agree that “The pathway to a beautiful, healthly, and fit body starts in your head. No secret diet, no gimmicks or tricks will last a lifetime. Not quick fixes but lifelong solutions” (Dupriest 2005, page 111). Weight loss or dieting tricks never worked for my family with weight problems over the years and still do not work. The old fashion nutritious, healthly food in moderate proportion certainly helps. Not ignoring the genetic factor stated above, the control and moderate eating and mental state of mind work in harmony. But so too is exercise (that is, consistent learned exercise specifically designed for weight loss purpose and for a specific individual body). “Learning exercise form and techniques properly is important for two reasons: It ensures results and prevents injury” (Sherman-Wolin 2004, page 22). I believe we all have known relatives, friends and neighbors who have at some time or another (maybe, even now) embarked upon some form of weight loss exercise without proper planning and consultations only to be injured or suffer from lack of conistent desired results – real reduction in weight. While we have mercy on such persons, professional exercise help (without the hugh cost attached) will and have certainly helped the serious weight loss seeker. Hence, here knowlegde, results and consistency, and without the ….”consequence of setting unrealistic fitness goals is the antithesis of being in the Exercise Success Triad” (Sherman-Wolin 2004, pages 21 and 25). This is important.
Now weight loss distress often contribute to depression – a much more serious mental illness. Factors that will help to reduce depression and positively help to overcome the weight loss dilemma include….being kind to yourself…lessen the amount of stress in your life….stick to a routine…educating yourself…avoiding recreational drugs and alcohol…being aware of your thoughts…reaching out to others…and giving your self time for recovery and improvements (American Medical Association: Essential Guide to Depression 1998, page 144). We can never ignore depression especially when it is associated with weight loss anxiety. That is why constant monitoring of yourself and those going through this “weight stress loss” problem can never be trivialized. “Depression is much more than a bad mood. It is an illness that affects the mind, body, behavior, and mood” (Kittleson et al 2005, page 33). I certainly agree!
But diet and fitness programs may tell us what to do, but only people can motivate us to comply with the weight loss programs and help us achieve long-term life success. Hence, “seek support from other people” (Successful Weight Management at http://www.annecollins.com/weight-management-guide.htm). Whatever we seek to accomplish in life we will always need helps to – weight loss management is no exception. So, as you assess, plan and implement your personal choice of weight loss for success, I hope the above will be of some good perspective advise for your desired success.
