Decide to Be Healthy, Not Thin

If you add up the number of people unhappy with their bodies, the percentage on a diet, or the billions of dollars spent on diet programs, books, foods and supplements, the figures all show that our society has become obsessed with weight. But if so many Americans are concerned with their weight, how can more people than ever be overweight?

A Desire to Be Slim Can Backfire

Nearly two-thirds of adult Americans are now overweight, increasing their risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer. Nearly one-third is obese.

To solve the obesity epidemic that threatens our health, some health experts argue that we should pay much more attention to our weight. Yet research shows that an obsession with becoming thin, contrary to what you might expect, creates more of a health problem.

When we try to control our eating with external rules, like a fad diet, our obsession and preoccupation with food increases. In America, where food is so widely available around the clock, a fixation with food is a foolproof recipe for overeating.

Better Health Should Be Your Goal

Rather than making weight loss your be-all and end-all goal, focus on choices that improve your health. Hoping for weight loss is okay, but making weight loss the goal almost always guarantees that you will give up healthier eating and more exercising, if those good habits don't bring the desired weight loss.

It's easy to make health your goal. For example, decide that you will lead a less sedentary life - no matter what you look like. Try to walk at least an hour a day. For cancer prevention, the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) also recommends that you get an hour a week of vigorous exercise, like tennis.

Some people may need to do more to resist society's pressures than create goals for themselves. The stress and isolation in today's culture cause many to feel "out of balance." Instead of knowing how to nurture themselves and set personal limits, people may choose unhealthy habits like eating, smoking, or excessive shopping to cope.

If you're overwhelmed with stress, try changing how you respond. For example, when you feel under pressure, instead of ordering a pizza and splurging, call a good friend, read a new book, or take a walk.

The Facts About Weight Management brochure from the American Institute for Cancer Research has more tips on living a healthier life. Call AICR at 1-800-843-8114, ext. 111, and ask for your free copy.

Source: Ever Green Ever Healthy Features by the American Institute for Cancer Research, www.aicr.org. Reprinted by permission.