Lost in weight loss discussion is whether it's even a good idea in the first place. We usually assume that for "overweight" people, weight loss leads to greater health, better looks, and so forth. And there are always advertisements galore hoping to get you to pursue weight loss in new ways. There is lots of opportunity, but is weight loss a good choice for you?
Weight Loss Efforts Involve Risk
I can't think of anything we're more optimistic about than losing weight. Even if we don't succeed, we reason, no harm will be done. But the usual ways of pursuing weight loss aren't always harmless.
Weight Loss Hopes Can Open You to Gimmicks
Our huge desire to shed pounds can leave us a bit desperate for results. When we find out that losing weight isn't easy, we can be vulnerable to dangerous shortcut attempts.
- Taking pills meant for horses
- Your weight loss supplement may contain undeclared drugs
Weight Loss Efforts for Special Events
A bride-to-be attempting to lose weight for her wedding is so common that we don't think twice about it. There are many other seasons and occasions for which weight loss seems "necessary." What are the risks involved when tying weight loss to an event?
- I've got to get into my prom dress!
- Is your identity wrapped up in your "summer body"?
How to Sell Weight Loss
Many diet plans are shameless in their methods of promotion and target audiences. Do they have your best interests in mind?
- Kellogg's turns up the pressure
- Life's simple for teen girls (when all they have to do is lose weight)
- Some products distract you from one scam with another scam
Even the most well-intentioned weight loss plans, like the Best Life diet plan to which Oprah Winfrey subscribes, can derail you. It pays to keep your eyes open!
If Not Weight Loss, Then What?
We seek to lose weight, in large part, because of the things we think it will give us. But if you rule out weight loss, what do you do with all of the extra time and energy?
It's common to think that life will start "once I lose 15 pounds" (or whatever number you might have in mind). You'll start pursuing that guy you met a few weeks ago that you're afraid to contact. Or you'll apply for a new job when you reach a certain weight goal. And so on.
The great news is that you don't have to wait. Instead of convincing yourself that weight loss will solve a dozen problems for you, you can work on those issues now, at your current weight.
