At one point in time, diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol were medical challenges that stumped both medical providers and society as a whole. Now, with major advancements in research and practice, the success of treating those diseases can almost be guarantee by following predictable formulas. Similar to transitioning from cooking from scratch to following directions from the box, the creation of successful, repeatable formulas for treating those disease made a diagnosis feel more like an inconvenience than an issue. Ironically, as the treatments for those diseases improved, the treatment for other health problems started to feel as if they should follow a guaranteed formula as well. Unfortunately, that belief can cause you to overlook important factors that could explain why a treatment is not working for you, especially if you are trying to manage your weight.
Separating your worth from your weight
Managing your weight cannot be simplified into watching your calories in vs. your calories out. There are other factors that can lead to increased weight and obesity such as your genetics, sleep patterns, and much more. Arguably, the most important factor of all is self-compassion.
Obesity is a disease. How much you weigh does not signify your willpower, laziness, or capability. But believing so can make addressing it harder than it needs to be. So, take the time to speak to yourself nicely, even if you are not where you want to be. Having a bit of patience for yourself can help to open your eyes and discover a factor that you may not have initially considered, such as choosing the right healthcare provider. Discussing changes in your weight can be quite a vulnerable experience, but having a provider that can see you as person, and not a number, can make a world of difference. If you have weight management questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact Dr. Cassandra Wertz.