Slow and Steady...

I was looking through the obesity headlines the other day, and I saw an article about Giyen Kim, a woman who has made a New Year's resolution for herself. This isn't any ordinary resolution, it is something that we could all learn from. She has made the goal of losing about a pound or so a week, which may sound ridiculous to some, but in reality, it is a serious approach at a lifestyle change. These changes do not come overnight, even though the diet pill companies want you to think so. At this pace, Giyen can really learn what is leading her to put on weight. She can see whether that is eating bad things, living a sedentary life, or maybe a mix of both. The article explains that she participates in physical activity every day, which is the recommended amount advised by experts. She is well on her way to a better and longer life.

Some have criticized her and, I am sure, many other people for a slow progress, but I am confident that this "slow approach" will be more effective in the long run. Americans must learn what is causing them to gain weight, and then work at their own pace to change their lives. Sure, there are drastic measures that we can take (pills, liposuction, gastric bypass, etc) but the best and most lasting measure is to change one's lifestyle to take and keep the weight off. I believe that the American health care system focuses too much on "fixing the problem at hand" and not preventing the real threat to our country (obesity and other chronic disease). To Giyen, I say keep it up and don't let anyone get you down.