Obesity myths and how to remain healthy

We’re glad someone finally busted some long-held myths about obesity. In this case, it was a group of doctors in Wednesday’s online issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.

These doctors wanted to set the record straight about some commonly held misconceptions. These stem from the media and government agencies.

Here are the myths:

• Sexual activity burns 100 to 300 calories for each person.
• Physical education classes, in their current format, play a vital role in preventing childhood obesity.
• Large, long-term weight changes can be produced by small sustained changes in energy intake or expenditure.
• Rapid weight loss is associated with worse long-term weight loss outcomes than a gradual method.
• Breastfeeding is a protective measure against obesity.
• Patients will become frustrated and lose less weight if you don’t set realistic goals.
• For patients who seek weight-loss treatment, assessing the stage of change of diet readiness is important.

Staying healthy

The CDC defines obesity as anyone having a body mass index of 30 or over. But we all know that BMI is a poor measurement of health. For example, athletes often have high BMIs but relatively little fat on their bodies. Still, a 30 BMI is pretty high if you’re the average adult. So, if you’re looking to lose weight, here’s how we suggest going about it:

• Cut out fructose. Several studies are suggesting that fructose is a big part of the obesity puzzle. Eating fructose, especially high fructose corn syrup, essentially flips the switch that causes your body to accumulate more fat, according to a recent article by Dr. Mercola.
• Switch to raw, organic foods: Eating organic fruits and vegetables alone won’t cause you to drop pounds. But gradually switching your diet from processed foods to raw, organic food may give your health a boost. That can stimulate your metabolism as well.
• Get out: We’re not saying you have to become an Iron Man or Iron Woman. Just get outside and get your heart rate up daily. It’s extremely easy to expend very little energy these days. And motivation can be an issue. So, do what you love. Walk. Run. Bike. Hike. Swim. Kayak.
• Build a personalized detox program: Detoxing is amazing for your body and your overall health. And it can really help you keep weight off. We suggest colon hydrotherapy and lymphatic massage to start. You can contact us today to discuss your goals with a professional.

What do you think about those obesity myths? Do the doctors have it right?

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