Let’s face it—talking about weight can be tricky. Whether it’s managing your weight, navigating challenges with your health, or simply trying to feel your best, the world of weight management and disorders can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be! With the right information and support, we can approach these topics in a way that empowers and encourages everyone to take control of their health, without feeling shame.
In this post, we’ll explore the different approaches to weight management, the most common weight-related disorders, and how you can focus on feeling healthy and confident—no matter where you are on your journey.
Weight Management: It’s About More Than Just a Number
When we talk about managing weight, we’re not just talking about fitting into a certain size or hitting a particular number on the scale. Weight management is about feeling good, being healthy, and finding what works best for your body. Here are some ways you can approach weight management that go beyond just "dieting."
Diet and Nutrition The food we eat plays a huge role in how we feel and how our bodies perform. This doesn’t mean you have to follow the latest fad diet (we all know how those go!), but focusing on eating balanced meals that include a variety of nutrients can help you maintain your energy levels and support your overall health. If you prefer a certain style of eating, like low-carb, Mediterranean, or plant-based, that’s great too—just make sure it’s something sustainable for the long haul!
Exercise & Physical Activity Regular movement isn’t just about burning calories—it’s about boosting mood, building strength, and feeling more energetic. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a favorite dance class, or just getting outside to breathe in some fresh air, exercise is a key part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Plus, it feels pretty great too!
Behavioral Therapy Did you know that what’s going on in your mind can affect what’s happening with your body? Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic techniques can help you address emotional eating, set achievable goals, and find new ways to cope with stress. It’s all about creating a positive relationship with food and body image.
Medical Support For some, weight management might involve seeing a healthcare professional for additional support. This could be through weight loss medications (prescribed by a doctor) or bariatric surgery in certain cases. It’s important to work with a healthcare provider to figure out what approach is best for you.
Common Weight-Related Disorders: What You Need to Know
Sometimes, managing weight isn’t just about lifestyle choices—it can be related to a health condition or disorder. There’s no need to feel ashamed of these conditions; they can be managed with the right support and understanding. Let’s break down some common weight-related disorders:
Obesity and Overweight When we talk about obesity, we’re referring to a condition where a person has a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Being overweight (BMI between 25-29.9) can also increase the risk of certain health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and joint problems. But remember, BMI is just one number and doesn’t tell the whole story about your health. It’s about the bigger picture—what’s going on with your overall health, energy, and well-being.
Anorexia Nervosa Anorexia is an eating disorder that involves extreme food restriction, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. It can be really tough, but it’s important to remember that it’s a medical condition and not something anyone can “just snap out of.” Support from healthcare professionals, therapy, and a strong support system can make all the difference.
Bulimia Nervosa Bulimia involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors (like vomiting or excessive exercise) to prevent weight gain. It can be physically and emotionally exhausting. But with the right support—whether through therapy, nutrition counseling, or medical care—recovery is possible.
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) BED is characterized by episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short period of time, often followed by guilt or shame. The important thing to remember here is that you’re not alone, and there are ways to manage and heal through therapy and support.
Other Conditions to Consider Disorders like Cachexia (weight loss due to chronic illness), Prader-Willi Syndrome (a genetic condition causing constant hunger), and Lipodystrophy (abnormal fat distribution) can all affect weight and metabolism. These conditions are complex and often require specialized care and management.
How to Approach Weight in a Healthy Way
The key to weight management is finding what works for YOU. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. Focus on making small changes that improve your health and boost your mood, rather than obsessing over the number on the scale. If you’re struggling with a weight-related disorder, remember there’s help available, and you’re never alone in your journey.
Whether you’re aiming to lose weight, maintain a healthy weight, or just feel better in your body, it’s important to approach weight management with kindness, patience, and an open mind. Focus on building healthy habits, seeking support when needed, and always being gentle with yourself.
At the end of the day, your worth isn’t defined by your weight—it’s defined by who you are and how you live. Take care of yourself, inside and out!
To kickstart your health journey this January, we’re excited to offer a special incentive! As a thank you to the first 25 patients seen at each of our clinic locations, we’re giving away an exercise band set to help support your fitness goals. It’s just our way of saying thank you for choosing to focus on your health with us this year. We’re here to support you every step of the way, so take advantage of this offer and let’s make 2024 your healthiest year yet!
Sunshine Community Health Center
1-907-376-2273 (PANGANGALAGA)
*This article was written with the support of AI*