Dr. Abby Aronowitz - Your Final Diet

"The Fat Trap"

2012-01-02T18:00:00.000-08:00

The Health editor of the NY Times admitted that she is approximately 60 pounds overweight; the result of yo-yo dieting. She then proceeded to review research to shed light on why this happens. To date there are approximately 900 postings; it generated tremendous interest. Many posts were about not giving up on weight loss despite the futility, and others were about how they lost weight. Here is the link to “The Fat Trap” http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/28/why-lost-pounds-come-back/ What follows are my responses, followed by attacks from my detractors.

“Why might our biology fight so hard to regain lost weight? Because losing weight is not in your best interest? Why, in the face of scientific and anecdotal evidence do people think that losing weight is still a healthy and admirable goal? Yo-yo dieting has been proven to be harmful, and people who have kept weight off generally meet the criteria for eating disorders, and obsessive-compulsive neurosis!

People are obviously meant to come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The process of living healthfully, not the outcome of weight loss counts most, and the “evils” of obesity can be easily managed with modern medicine and healthy lifestyles. Furthermore, insulin resistance, hypertension, and lousy cholesterol have also been found to result from yo-you dieting. They also occur in thin people.

There is no research suggesting that people who lose weight live longer. The NY Times recently reported that New Yorkers are living longer than ever before, despite increased obesity! (This was also found by the CDC for all of America.)

The “obesity crisis” seems like a scam to sell diet products and make discrimination against people of size acceptable.

Let’s strive to live a relatively healthy lifestyle, and accept our resultant size with grace and dignity. No more putting ourselves or others down; discrimination begins with us.”

Thank you.

Abby Aronowitz, Ph.D.

Expert psychologist for Diet.com

www.YourFinalDiet.com

“A Ph.D. working as an expert psychologist for Diet.com believes the "obesity crisis" is a "scam." Really? Diabetes, heart disease, loss of mobility, loss of sexual attractiveness, social disapprobation--all are figments of our imagination, implanted in our minds by the folks who sell diet products? If people are "meant to come in all shapes and sizes" what explains the phenomenon of the dominant shape and size changing very significantly over the last 50 years. "Meant" by whom? I am suspicious of any post which ends with a link to a for-profit website designed to sell the poster's book. ($12.99 shipping and handling). Does not this make the poster a person who "sells diet products" herself?”

Comment:

“Why, in the face of scientific and anecdotal evidence do people think that losing weight is still a healthy and admirable goal?"

Apparently, you haven't read the conclusive epidemiological evidence that obesity, (BMI >30), doubles one's risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Moreover, type 2 diabetes, a disease exclusive to obesity, is not only the primary cause of blindness, renal failure and amputations, but typically shortens one's lifespan by a decade or more. Obesity can further affect one's quality of life, increasing the risk of asthma, arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. The scam of the obesity crisis is that the obese are not made to pay the significantly higher medical costs they impose on the rest of us.”

Here’s my next post:

“Keeping weight off is damn near impossible for the average mortal, But living a healthy lifestyle regardless of the scale, is a more achievable goal for many. Thin people should live healthfully too, but many believe that because they are thin, they can eat crap and sit on the couch…

The focus on “fat” per se, does everyone a disservice. Healthful living should be everyone’s goal, but many fat people have learned to hate their bodies, because they’re considered ugly, unattractive and worthless. This absolutely demolishes self-esteem, and represents the malignancy of discrimination.

We take better care of that which we love, than that which we hate, so a cultural and personal attitude adjustment is in order.

Here is a link for a free download of my book,” Your Final Diet.”

http://www.yourfinaldiet.com/book-promo.html

It offers a path to healthful living by making peace with food and body image, while accepting the resulting size with grace and dignity.

It was endorsed by Hillary Clinton, because it’s particularly empowering to girls and women. Hey, it’s worth it, just for the chapter on self-acceptance!

BTW, I am an expert psychologist for Diet .com, writing a “Health At Every Size, Naturally” column, entitled “Where Science Meets Sin!”. I am very grateful to my editor be being so open-minded.”

Here is another detractor:

"Keeping weight off is damn near impossible for the average mortal ..."

Not a great attitude, Dr. Abby. I also am tired or reading about supposedly fit fat people and broken down thin people all of whom are eating badly when most unfit people are fat.

The reason the focus is on extreme overweight and obesity is because they are associated or cause many obvious, serious problems. Yes, everyone should eat well and exercise, in our economy, good luck with that. But the costs of the obesity epidemic prompt the most attention.”

My final post:

“Our bodies are programmed for survival – at least living long enough to have and raise children. So why won’t our bodies help us to maintain weight loss, if it’s so healthy??? Why does it fight like the dickens to put weight back on? And why does every population study around the world find highest survival rates for overweight people? (Our own government found 86,000 FEWER deaths in the overweight range,and 33,000 more deaths in the thin range.) Are we living longer than ever before despite our increase in weight or because of it? Fat stores energy, which aids survival during illness, but researchers are also investigating the role fat plays within the immune system. Can anyone cite research finding that weight loss extends life? All I’ve seen is that most biological improvements are quickly reversed with weight gain and yo-yo dieting - which happens in nearly 100% of cases. The “obesity crisis” correlates with an increase in DIETING!

Many thanks for the overwhelming requests for the free download of my book, in a previous post. If anyone else would like to learn how to finally make peace with food and body image, and learn what a healthy lifestyle means – regardless of weight loss, I will reprint the offer here. Once we stop hating our fat, and loving ourselves, we can find a relaxed, enjoyable truce with food and movement, as opposed to the obsessions reported by those in the Weight Registry.” http://www.yourfinaldiet.com/book-promo.html

Thank you.

Dr. Abby!

Longevity Linked To Fat?

2011-04-04T16:47:00.000-07:00

Originally posted @diet.com

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. life expectancy just hit another all-time high. Is this despite increasing weights of Americans, or because of it?

Data recently reviewed from 2009 found 36,547 fewer deaths than the year before. The newly estimated age of 78 years, 2 months for a baby born in 2009 compares to 75.4 years in 1990. In approximately 20 years, nearly 3 years were added to our lives!

The average American male gained 17.1 pounds and the average American female added 15.4 pounds in the last 20 years. That's 70 days of life added for every woman's extra pound of fat! Why didn't this make headlines??? If life expectancy was down, everyone would be blaming the "obesity crisis."

Fat bias is pervasive and acceptable. It skews interpretation of research, and interferes with dissemination of true methods for obtaining optimal health. When fat is always blamed for ill health, it obscures more important determinants, such as genetics and lifestyle.

News stories linked increased life expectancy to a range of causes, including less heart disease, fewer homicides, better medical treatment, increased vaccinations, and decreases in smoking. Nowhere was the correlation between Americans' expanding lives linked to their expanding weights.

Research continues to explore why increased weights are linked to increased life expectancy, since this is actually old news. Every population study around the world found longest survival rates in the overweight range, despite pervasive beliefs that thin is the healthiest range. In fact the NIH found 86,000 fewer deaths in the overweight range when compared to the normal weight range, and 33,000 more deaths in the thin range. Why didn't they revise weight recommendations after their own research confirmed this???

There is some evidence suggesting that fat is part of the immune system, and keeps us healthier. Of course fat provides stored energy reserves to aid survival in times of illness. Additionally, fat secretes estrogen, which can compensate for ovaries shutting down in menopause. Estrogen is typically considered the fountain of youth, so perhaps this contributes to increased life expectancy in women. Females will tend to die at 80.6 yrs, whereas males will kick the bucket at an average of 75.7 years.

I also believe there may be an evolutionary reason for this. One guy can impregnate many women, whereas most women give birth to only a few children. There is more of a need for women to hang around to nurture them, whereas if a bunch of men died off early, the species can survive with only a few studmuffins.

My advice is to live a relatively healthy lifestyle, enjoy life, and don’t worry about your weight. Becoming your personal best is a great goal, since not everyone was meant to be thin.

Click here to get a FREE copy of Dr. Abby's Book!

Dr. Abby Bashes "The Bead Diet"

2010-12-30T22:03:00.000-08:00

Originally posted @diet.com

Have you heard of “The Bead Diet?” According to their website, www.accuweight.com, people lose 15 pounds a month, with most people losing more.

This three part program includes applying pressure to tiny beads behind the ear (acupressure), performing “Chi Gong Breathing,” and a crazy food plan.

Acupressure is designed to trick the body into feeling full, by creating balance through the hypothalamus. This part of the brain governs fullness and the amount of food eaten.

“Chi Gong Breathing” is supposed to harness the life force, “chi,” to improve health and longevity, and increase feelings of peace and harmony. They also claim that it enhances energy levels, attention, concentration, and mental alertness.

Next comes the food. There is no specific information on the site, but I’ve been told that for two days you eat milk products, and for two days fruits and veggies. The site promotes lots of artificial sweetener.

The nutritional balance of the food, along with acupressure, supposedly tricks the body to ignore the reduction of calories. This prevents starvation mode. The body uses stored fat for energy, resulting in weight loss and amazing medical results. If you exercise and feel faint, they suggest a bit of honey in water, and a sugar-free electrolyte drink if necessary.

They encourage eating between noon and 6PM because the body needs nutrition during those hours. Eating outside those hours might cause the body “to cannibalize itself using not only fat, but muscle, organ mass and negatively affect your metabolism.” YOWZA!

Finally, after losing all the weight you want, they promise maintenance within 3-5 pounds of goal, apparently your new set point.

Does this sound too good to be true? Even if everything goes according to plan, the claim of maintaining that level of success sounds preposterous. It would be more believable if they provided some decent research confirming this. After all, they have been operating for 11+ years, yet there is not a single follow-up study on their website.

The only study cited followed 16 subjects on the plan for 13 weeks. They lost an average of 46 pounds. Since when is sixteen subjects considered strong science, especially without any follow-up???

We all know that most people can lose weight on any fad diet, but few people can keep it off without developing an eating disorder; ie. preoccupation with food and weight. I believe the two part system of dieting to lose weight, and then trying to maintain the loss, is what has failed. There needs to be one way of living, which strives towards health and fitness.

Click here to get a FREE copy of Dr. Abby's book, Your Final Diet

"Dr. Abby's Diet Resolutions"

2010-12-30T21:55:00.000-08:00

Originally posted @diet.com

New Years, New Years Resolutions,

Time for cleansing absolutions.

Diets, diets, everywhere,

Wash the fat from way down there!

Fat from cakes and nog and such,

Such a glutton, ate so much!

Why oh why am I so fat?

“Cuz on my ass I simply sat.

Gimme this and gimme that,

More o’ this, and more o’ that.

But is it time for deprivation?

Oh no, please, such aggravation.

Time to try out something new,

Something easy, here’s a clue.

Compensation, compensation!

Beats that ugly deprivation.

Health at every size is great!

Be your best, with no self hate.

Tweak your choices,

Mouth rejoices.

Dark chocolate bits

For antioxidant hits!

Eat when hungry, stop when enuf,

And exercise to make you buff!

Take my advice,

To deal with the vice.

Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution

Is certainly the best solution!

Click here to get a FREE copy of Dr. Abby's book, Your Final Diet

Dr. Abby's Lessons From Summer

2010-09-11T09:42:00.000-07:00

Lessons of Summer - Originally posted on diet.com

As summer draws to a close, I am reflecting on some weight-related episodes that captured my attention.

One little girl was absolutely tortured trying to get her skinny body into the water. She sucked her belly in tight, and ribs poked through the thin layer of skin covering her frame. Her anguish gave me a shiver.

I suggested she splash water on her arms and legs, to help adapt to the temperature change. Her mom flashed a smile, and said, “That’s what happens when you have negative body fat!” I quickly suggested that thin was not always better.

A few weeks later, a thin woman on the beach complained to me that so many people discuss dieting, exercise and weight loss with her, when she has no interest whatsoever. It seems they admired and disdained her, for being naturally thin and active. She was never weight-conscious, yet always enjoyed eating healthfully, and running. It’s the way she is wired; a very active person who needs to move.

I pondered her situation, and wondered if we might view the human species as diverse by design. Might we imagine that fat people are not flawed, but potentially useful because they store fat more effectively than thin people? Perhaps in the cave-men era, if food was over there, we might send a quick runner to get it, while fat people waited in the cave to cook it!

If food was scarce, perhaps fatter people would survive longer, since fat is stored energy. This would ensure survival of the species; survival of the fattest? Perhaps in this nuke-threatened culture, this could once again be useful.

By this time, my new friend and I were dripping with sweat, so I suggested we take a dip. She refused, saying she just likes to be hot. As I walked through the water, the coolness reminded me of the thin little girl’s anguish, and the curious remark of my new friend. I instantly realized that she must be cold all the time, due to low body fat, and it was wonderful to feel warm – whereas cold water must have been as torturous to her as the little girl.

The moral? Let us not judge ourselves or others, but simply appreciate our differences, while striving to become our personal best.

Dr. Abby Aronowitz
www.DearDrAbby.com

Dr. Oz's 16 Tips for Summer Weight Loss

2010-05-17T08:21:00.000-07:00

An article about Dr. Oz's summer weight loss plan was featured on AOL on May 3rd:
Dr. Oz's 16 Tips for Summer Weight Loss
by Norine Dworkin-McDaniel

His main points were:
- See yourself looking fabulous.
- Take a "before" picture in your swimsuit.
- Hang your favorite summer outfit where you'll see it every day.
- Let your family in on what you're up to.
- Kick off your efforts with a token gift to yourself. (i.e. walking shoes or pedometer)
- Take advantage of longer days. (physical activity)
- Skip the elevator.
- Have sex.
- Eat breakfast.
- Cut 100 calories a day.
- Have a drink.
- Snack before you eat your meals.
- Fill your plate with summer fruits and vegetables.
- Eat dessert in the afternoon.
- Have wine with dinner.
- Dine outside.

Abby's comment:

Dr. Oz’s inexperience in the field of weight management is glaring to any professionals who have been in the trenches for years. Perhaps when the devastating stories of people regaining weight lost from his plan start pouring in, it will reshape his understanding about the biology and psychology of this issue.

Nearly 100% of people who lose weight gain it back, and many of those who keep it off develop eating disorders to maintain an unnaturally thin weight. Research suggests that yo-yo dieting can adversely affect blood pressure, lipids and insulin sensitivity.

A hundred years ago, as a psychologist specializing in weight loss, I often suggested that people imagine themselves looking thinner. Regardless of its motivating factor, it did not help people to keep weight off, and for many people it is a biologically unattainable image. Yes, the same strategies that work for sports psychologists work for weight management, but focus must be on the “process” not the goal.

Imagining crossing the finish line is not as empowering as imagining yourself performing excellently. So, it is better to imagine living a healthy lifestyle, than imagining your body at a certain weight. Your body will land at it’s healthiest place, which may not be thin, if your 7000 fat genes do not direct it to be thin.

Those fat pictures and summer outfits begin taunting people at some point, since weight gain is much faster than weight loss. Been there, done that, with thousands of patients, regardless of what diet they did to lose weight. Going public insures greater humiliation and shame when weight is inevitably regained.

If you follow many of Dr. Oz’s other suggestions, without an eye on weight loss, you may actually become healthier – regardless if weight is lost. But if weight loss is the goal, it taints everything, and sets you up for failure. I also advocate exercise, chocolate, wine, skipping the elevator, having sex, fruits and veggies, and snacking before meals. Most were discussed in my book, Your Final Diet, back in 2004. These add pleasure, health and control, regardless if weight is lost.

Dr. Oz is a great showman, and probably a great surgeon. Perhaps he should stick with what he knows!

Dr. Abby Aronowitz
www.DearDrAbby.com

New Alarm Bells About Chemicals and Cancer

2010-05-08T16:44:00.000-07:00

The New York Times ran an op-ed called:
New Alarm Bells About Chemicals and Cancer
By NICHOLAS D. KRISTOF on May 6, 2010

"The President’s Cancer Panel is the Mount Everest of the medical mainstream, so it is astonishing to learn that it is poised to join ranks with the organic food movement and declare: chemicals threaten our bodies. The cancer panel is releasing a landmark 200-page report on Thursday, warning that our lackadaisical approach to regulation may have far-reaching consequences for our health. " Read more here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/06/opinion/06kristof.html

Abby posted the following comment:

I am a psychologist specializing in weight management, and my work encourages “health at every size, naturally.” We are bombarded with messages about getting healthy by losing weight, but if the focus was truly on health, then we would be encouraging nutrient-dense foods, free of chemicals, instead of “diet food.” For instance, artificial sweeteners and artificial fats seem to disrupt the body’s natural mechanisms of hunger and satiation – which are key to maintaining a healthy weight.

Thinking more broadly about health - and what enters our bodies - would lead to creative thinking, such as tax rebates to homeowners who refrain from using chemical fertilizers, pesticides and other toxins. What about giving rebates to homeowners and townships that stop mowing lawns, stop cutting down trees, and allow natural local diversity to reclaim the land? We have interfered with the earth’s natural filters, and cancer is probably the result. Losing weight does not help with any of this, but getting back to nature seems to help.

In fact, cancer and weight have an interesting connection, but not what we have been led to believe. Weight gain in our country is correlated with relative food abundance, which has allowed us to reach maximum heights, weights and IQs. Higher weights were correlated with more cancer, but so were higher heights!

Higher weights and heights suggest that more “robust” people live long enough for deadly cancers to develop, whereas lowest incidents of cancer were found in countries with lower heights and weights – and much earlier death rates. Cancer simply did not have time to develop, ostensibly because of worse nutrition, health, and early death! The idea that being overweight leads to most types of cancers is simply not true.

Furthermore, having some weight on your body seems to protect the body from many illnesses, and assure better recoveries. Not only does fat offer some reserves during times of stress, but it may also contribute towards certain immunities and protect against bone fractures. Population studies around the world consistently find highest death rates for extremely thin and extremely fat people, with lowest death rates for the overweight.

Environmental impact on health is an essential consideration. I was thrilled to read about the President’s Cancer Panel supporting organics. Organic food tends to be much more nutritious than inorganic foods, and focusing on health instead of weight loss is the way to go!

Thank you.

Dr. Abby Aronowitz
www.DearDrAbby.com

I CAN'T BELIEVE IT'S NOT FATTENING!

2010-03-20T10:30:00.000-07:00

Originally posted @diet.com

My good friend, Chef Devin Alexander has done it again! This Best Selling Author of The Biggest Loser Cookbook has created over 150 deliciously easy recipes for the super-busy, decadent-craving, yet health-conscious person in her new cookbook: I Can't Believe It's not fattening!!

These mouthwatering, home-cooked, and absolutely guilt-free favorites can be ready in mere minutes! After telling her that I have never actually followed a recipe, she challenged me to break the spell, and try out one of her treats.

After drooling over more than 50 beautiful color photographs, I was stunned by something so simple, so creative, sooo... funny! Ya gotta see her chocolate chip banana boat. This looks like a treat we might dig up when raiding the house for something yummy, and putting together two odd ingredients. Create a long slit down the middle of a banana, and stuff in dark chocolate mini chips. After 5 minutes in the oven, you are left with a divine mix of melted dark chocolate, slathered over a warm banana, in it’s own boat – that has charred, but not caught fire! It is delicious, adorable, and EEEEZZZZ!

There are recipes for caramelized apple butter-topped pork chops, asian grilled london broil, and parmesan garlic soft pretzels, Squeal with delight at her 351 calorie bacon cheeseburger, and enjoy digging down into her comforting mexican mac and cheese. The diversity of tastes blows my mind, as it seems every country and food group is represented through creative, imaginative, low calorie dishes.

At times she offers options between using “regular” and “light” ingredients, which embraces my penchant for using natural products, for those willing to finally ditch artificial ingredients.

Chef Devin is a gift for our culture by helping us towards healthy food that actually tastes delicious. This is what I mean by living a healthy lifestyle; it’s a plan that can last for life. Incorporating these charming recipes and sweet delicacies will surely help us to become fitter and happier. Thanks, Devin!

Purchase Here: I CAN’T BELIEVE ITS NOT FATTENING!

Dr. Abby - Your Final Diet

Dr. Abby Hearts 'Dr. South Beach'

2010-02-12T08:15:00.000-08:00

Originally posted @diet.com

Lifestyle Management for Cardiac and Diabetic Concerns

Welcome to our fourth installment of “Face-Off: Dr. Abby Vs. Dr. South Beach!” In this piece, we discuss hearts and sugar – appropriate metaphors for love and sweets during this Valentine week!

Dr. Agatston's profession as a cardiologist originally led him to investigate dietary changes that positively affected heart problems. His discoveries led to some important conclusions and recommendations about preventing cardiac sumptoms as well as diabetic concerns.

Dr. Abby: Dr. Agatston, can you please comment on the connection between diabetes and cardiac problems, and the best prevention for both?

Dr. Agatston: One thing you can say about diabetes that is not recognized enough, is that Type 2 adult onset diabetes was considered a problem of blood sugar, primarily because of the technology available for testing. Now we appreciate that insulin clears fats after a meal, not just sugar. The clearing of fats is probably more important. When fats are hanging around because of insulin resistance, they are definitely making differences in lipid particles that produce atherosclerosis. The main message is that adult onset diabetes is more of a cholesterol/lipid problem than a sugar problem, and of course a weight issue. One bad thing I see in my practice occurs when adults with high blood sugar/ Type 2 diabetes are put on insulin. They tend to gain weight, and tend towards dislipidemias. Some endocrinologists unfortunately concentrate on the blood sugars instead of dislipidemias.

Dr. Abby: So the way to get rid of the lipids hanging around is not through insulin, but through...

Dr. Agatston: Diet and exercise!

Dr. Abby: OK, that’s what I thought you were going to say. So it’s not all medication based, it’s more lifestyle.

Dr. Agatston: Yes, lifestyle. There are situations where it is not lifestyle at all and it’s inherited, but insulin resistance and adult onset Type 2 diabetes is primarily lifestyle. If you just give medications you’re just papering over. There’s a place for medication, but it’s primarily lifestyle.

Dr. Abby: Right, it’s not instead of a healthy lifestyle. I would agree 100%!

Commentary: Once again, Dr. Agatston and I found an area of agreement! I find this information fascinating, since general knowledge typically assumes that blood sugar imbalances are the main culprit in adult onset Type 2 diabetes. The fact that insulin clears dietary fats as well as sugars is an important discovery, ostensibly due to innovative technology. How unfortunate that insulin treatment often causes weight gain. Yet, it is encouraging that a healthy lifestyle can create significant improvements in this condition, as well as improvement in cardiac concerns. Thanks for enlightening us, Dr. Agatston!

This is part 4 of the Dr. Abby vs. "Dr. South Beach" interviews. Check out the first three installments here: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3

Dr. Abby

NOTE: A more complete version of this interview will be found in my next book, Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution! This is a small excerpt from a rather extensive interview. To obtain a free PDF of my current book, Your Final Diet, please click here. Some editorial license was used to edit Dr. Agatston’s lengthy answers to my questions. Every effort was made to preserve the integrity of content.

YourFinalDiet.com

The Perils of Yo-Yo Dieting!

2009-12-07T10:38:00.000-08:00

posted originally on diet.com

Face-Off: Dr. Abby Vs. Dr. “South Beach!”

In the next phase of our interview, Dr. Agatston and I discussed yo-yo dieting. My biggest concern about dieting and weight loss is the near-inevitability of gaining back weight lost. Not only is this emotionally devastating, but research strongly suggests that adverse physiological harm results from weight cycling.

Dr. Abby: Some of my patients have abused Phase 1 of The South Beach Diet by returning to it frequently and yo-yo dieting.. Can you comment about harmful effects of yo-yo dieting?

Dr. Agatston: People go for quick weight loss, and that’s the whole sense of “diet.” The idea of fast weight loss was always a concern for us. The first phase is certainly for people who are really overweight, who have insulin resistance, or are hungry all the time. It works very well if you get rid of cravings and get some good psychological feedback.

But you must move towards a lifestyle or you will yo-yo. Rapid weight loss lowers muscle mass and lowers metabolism, and it gets tougher and tougher each time. What I always say is, you can even lose weight quickly with a cabbage soup diet. However, you’d just get tired of it and go off it. You must turn the diet into a lifestyle or you will yo-yo back, and it gets tougher and tougher.

The thing with yo-yo dieting that’s not really out there, is that people who are insulin resistant are able to yo-yo easily. Fat and thin people have more trouble, since they don’t gain or lose so easily. Insulin resistant people lose cravings and lose weight rapidly. But once they go back to what they were doing, they also gain more rapidly.

People with the highest risk are able to yo-yo the most. But yo-yo dieting puts them at the highest risk the for coronary disease. For people who are able to yo-yo, it is most important not to. They need the lifestyle. The ability to yo-yo almost connects you with a high risk person, and somebody who shouldn’t yo-yo, I guess.

Dr. Abby: Wow, I’ve never quite heard it put that way! Thanks for clarifying. I was kind of going for the belly fat answer, but am glad to hear this. However, so many people who yo-yo diet add more belly fat on the way up. They’re less healthy than before losing the weight, right?

Dr. Agatston: Right! They’ve lost some muscle mass, and belly fat comes back very rapidly; usually more than before.

Dr. Abby: It has compensatory effect. The body doesn’t know when the next famine is coming, so-to-speak. And it’s useful when we’re starving but not useful when we’re not.

Dr. Agatston: Exactly.

Commentary: Many people view The South Beach Diet as a diet, and not a lifestyle. They return after regaining lost weight, and therefore yo-yo diet. Although Dr. Agatston admits that fast weight loss in Phase I can offer psychological encouragement, the great majority of people who lose weight do gain it back. Encouragement can quickly turn to discouragement. Can we eliminate Phase I and go straight to maintenance? The program Dr. Agatston implemented in some Florida schools did just that; there was no emphasis on weight loss or even portion control; just healthy choices. It is very heartening to see evolution and growth in his philosophy.

My forthcoming book, Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution!, helps people to personalize food plans so they can stick with it forever. Incorporating “healthy junk food” can help. Learn about it in this free download of my first book, Your Final Diet.

This is part 3 of the Dr. Abby vs. "Dr. South Beach" interviews.
Check out the first two installments here: Part 1, Part 2

Dr. Abby graduated from Columbia University, and holds 2 masters degrees and a Ph.D. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and Mensa. As a psychologist in private practice for 16 years she helped people with a wide variety of concerns, and has spoken on many topics related to weight loss, mental health, parenting and relationships. Dr. Abby is also president of DAA, Inc. For information regarding coaching, speaking, or therapeutic products, please visit her website at www.DearDrAbby.com.

Dr. Abby says Women Crave Food Differently than Men

2009-11-16T10:18:00.000-08:00

posted originally on diettogo.com

diettogo.com reader Sally K. recently asked me this interesting question:

Are there gender differences with regard to food cravings?

YES Sally... there are important differences regarding our biological needs, which create different cravings. Estrogen causes cravings for fat/sugar combinations to create our beautiful breasts, hips and thighs, which aid us during pregnancy. Testosterone creates cravings for fat/protein combinations to build strong muscles for the "hunt." Doesn’t it ring true that women want their sweets but men want their steaks?

See, it’s not our fault; it’s hormonal!

Additionally, women have lower levels of serotonin, the brain chemical which regulates calmness, wellbeing and depression. Precursors of serotonin are found in carbohydrates.

Do you know of any women who binge on pork chops when stressed? Never! It’s always carbs!

Flooding the body with serotonin-producing substances calms us down even though it doesn’t solve our problems. Cravings seem psychological because they’re biological.
Ever notice that some premenstrual women will do anything to get their hands on some carbs? It’s because serotonin levels drop during PMS.

Understanding biological needs helps us to work with our bodies rather than against them.

Fighting natural instincts might set us up for failure. It is wiser to program in the foods we love, while keeping an eye on weekly caloric totals as well as balanced nutrition.

Of course not all fat, carbohydrates and proteins are created equal.

For instance, complex carbohydrates contain fiber, which keeps blood sugar stable and fends off cravings for much longer periods than simple sugars. However, eating an apple when you really want apple pie might just be adding calories when you end up having the pie, too!

Working with our cravings makes good sense biologically and psychologically. Consider this permission to indulge in whatever you really want, cuz it’s gonna getcha sooner or later! Planning helps to manage calories appropriately.

Dr. Abby graduated from Columbia University, and holds 2 masters degrees and a Ph.D. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and Mensa. As a psychologist in private practice for 16 years she helped people with a wide variety of concerns, and has spoken on many topics related to weight loss, mental health, parenting and relationships. Dr. Abby is also president of DAA, Inc. For information regarding coaching, speaking, or therapeutic products, please visit her website at www.DearDrAbby.com.

Dr. Abby: Best Way to Deal with all that Halloween Candy

2009-11-04T10:34:00.000-08:00

posted originally on diettogo.com

Dear Dr. Abby,

My kids brought home a stash of Halloween candy, which was enough to haunt any parent! What’s the best way to deal with this delightfully decadent supply?

Candy

First and foremost, I hope you shared their excitement about your kids' wonderful accomplishment! Grabbing all that loot required walking and enthusiasm, both of which burned calories. The bigger the pile, the further the mile!

Now, educate them about candy.

Anything with nuts is actually fairly healthy. Nuts contain good oils, while protein and fat minimize the high glycemic index of sugar.

Lollipops and gumdrops are pure sugar, but fairly low in calories. Brushing teeth should be a rule after eating these, since lingering sugar causes cavities.

Dark chocolate tops the list of good stuff.

You might also discuss portions, and/or calorie counts. A few little pieces might be equivalent to a bigger piece, unless it’s a peanut butter cup or peppermint patty, which may have more calories.

If your children are old enough to reason, ask them how they think they should be allowed to eat it.

If they come up with a moderate plan, such as one piece every day after school, or 3 small pieces after dinner, congratulate them on a great plan and let them win. If not, do some negotiation.

Allow them to have a bit more than they should have for the rest of the week, and then wean back towards a typical allotment of sweets.

Be careful about restriction and overindulgence, twin enemies contributing to eating disorders and obesity.

Restriction will probably lead to sneaking and overindulgence, and overindulgence can lead to all sorts of problems. Just keep it in perspective, and avoid sugar battles.

Food battles contra-indicate a lifetime of peace, regarding food and body image. Remember, food may not make them fatter, but food abuse might!

Dr. Abby graduated from Columbia University, and holds 2 masters degrees and a Ph.D. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and Mensa. As a psychologist in private practice for 16 years she helped people with a wide variety of concerns, and has spoken on many topics related to weight loss, mental health, parenting and relationships. Dr. Abby is also president of DAA, Inc. For information regarding coaching, speaking, or therapeutic products, please visit her website at www.DearDrAbby.com.

The Convergence of Opposites!

2009-10-20T18:22:00.000-07:00

posted originally on diet.com

In this installment of Face Off: Dr. Abby Vs. “Dr. South Beach” (Dr. Agaston) we discuss my philosophy of weight management. Initially I thought my “health at every size, naturally” philosophy was diametrically opposed to Dr. Agaston's views. However, as can be seen from the following interview, we are very much in agreement!

Dr. Abby: My next book, Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution!, advocates fitness rather than weight loss. This means responding to bodily signals of hunger and satiety, eating nutrient dense foods, and incorporating moderate physical activity. I talk a lot about psychological coping strategies, and offer acceptance for “imperfect” bodies by celebrating function over appearance. I abandon BMI, and look towards measures of blood pressure, HDL, triglycerides, and blood sugar (to determine overall health). What do you think of this approach?

Dr. Agatston: We’re in complete agreement! I agree that’s what we have to move towards… I think you’re right on! …Science is coming to agreement on these issues, but there is a delay in getting the word out. I think communities and workplaces have to be built around this approach, so it’s easy. From the beginning of the first South Beach Diet book, we realized the people we called “foodies,” the people who can shop all day, spend time at the gym, and enjoy cooking do well. But we have to affect everybody else also, and there’s only a percentage of people who are going to take that time and effort.

As a national health problem, we really have to change communities and schools to make it easier, and it is getting easier and easier, with places like Whole Foods. Not that I agree with everything they do, but they are advertising whole grain foods they didn’t used to advertise. The word is getting out there, and it’s easier for schools to find healthy foods; not like when we started, it was very difficult.

Dr. Abby: We need to increase the demand for healthy foods so the price comes down. A big concern of mine is the price break, and there is a class difference. I know I’m getting away from the question… We can advocate nutritious foods, but if it’s beyond the reach of a lot of people, we need to work toward awareness and availability.

Dr. Agatston: I agree. With the demand, the price does come down.

Dr. Abby: That’s my hope. So if we’re both demanding it, maybe we will make a difference!

Commentary: It was very comforting to hear Dr. Agatston agree that we must redefine health to advocate fitness, rather than weight loss, and emphasize hunger and satiety, nutrient dense foods, moderate physical activity, and healthy coping skills. When he suggested that science supports using measures of blood pressure, HDL, triglycerides, and blood sugar to determine overall health instead of BMI, I practically did a happy dance! Dr. Agatston, you made my day!

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Dr. Abby Aronowitz is a psychologist, speaker and coach, who completed work at Columbia University. She holds two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. Previously a consultant to Weight Watchers International, Dr. Abby has been featured on WebMD.com and AOL Diet and Fitness. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and Mensa, and President of DAA, Inc.

www.yourfinaldiet.com

Michael Pollan’s Favorite Food Rules

2009-10-20T18:18:00.000-07:00

October 7, 2009, 12:04 pm
Michael Pollan’s Favorite Food Rules
By Tara Parker-Pope

In March, the best-selling author Michael Pollan asked readers of the Well blog for rules people have about eating; folklore, wisdom and common sense. In this article he posted his favorites, and asked for more. Here’s mine:

253. October 8, 2009 12:58 am
- Eat when hungry, stop when full, as much as possible
- Eat mostly natural foods.
- Cope effectively, rather than turning to food for comfort.
- Get some exercise.

Incorporate delectable “healthy junk foods” into meals, so calories are accounted for, and not added in addition to meals. For instance, enjoy a whole grain toaster waffle with a scoop of natural ice cream for breakfast; less than 300 calories of protein, fiber, calcium, some sugar to kill the appetite and fat to keep it away.

Accept the body that results from living a relatively healthy lifestyle, without putting it down or discussing it with others.

Abby Aronowitz, Ph.D., Author of “Your Final Diet”
http://www.DearDrAbby.com

Obesity Crisis? Dr. Abby Says We're Actually Living Longer

2009-10-12T06:42:00.000-07:00

Article originally posted on diettogo.com

Can you believe the CDC recently reported that the life expectancy in the U.S. is up?

So much for an obesity crisis! What about data suggesting that we will be the first generation to outlive our kids? Or facts proclaiming that childhood diabetes is approaching epidemic proportions?

It’s all B.S. according to the CDC, which is actually based on research -- instead of hysteria and discrimination against people of size.

U.S. life expectancy has risen to a new high: 80.4 years for females and 75.3 years for males!

Fewer deaths were reported from almost all leading causes of death, and for every race and ethnicity. This report was based on approximately 90% of the death certificates collected in 2007, and compared to 2006 data.

We are now living an average of 0.2 years longer than the previous year... and way longer than former generations.

Here’s the piece de resistance: Deaths from diabetes fell about 4%, while death from heart disease dropped 5%. Weren’t these levels approaching epidemic proportions, given mass consumption of nutritionally void, sugar laden, hydrogenated fat-loaded foods?

So, who’s hyping an obesity crisis... and why?

Selling weight loss products that don’t work, and creating a need for more gimmicks is big business. Many people are naturally turned off by fat, so it offers a convenient, acceptable outlet for discrimination. Blaming rising health costs on them offers justification for marginalizing people of size, when research shows that proper nourishment, exercise, and healthy coping skills produce healthier people, regardless of size.

Shall we take torches to those who are lazing about in front of a screen, and offer a surcharge for insurance, regardless of their weight? What about those who don’t eat fruits and veggies, or drive without seat belts, or drink and smoke -- are they a bigger collective problem?

Perhaps we are amidst an obesity blessing. Maybe weight gain has been misinterpreted as bad, and actually signals that people are getting more nourishment and health care than in the past. Very obese people are surely getting heavier, as they are biologically programmed to store fat. Might this ensure survival of the species in case of food shortages? Perhaps we should be thanking them instead of admonishing them, evolutionarily speaking.

In truth, we must be accepting of others and ourselves, live without judgment, and do our personal best most of the time.

Diversity is a beautiful thing. And focusing on the process of living a relatively healthy lifestyle -- rather than an outcome of weight loss -- can help us to make peace with food and body image issues.

For more information, click here: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr58/nvsr58_01.pdf

For a free copy of Dr. Abby's e-book Your Final Diet click here.

Dr. Abby graduated from Columbia University, and holds 2 masters degrees and a Ph.D. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and Mensa. As a psychologist in private practice for 16 years she helped people with a wide variety of concerns, and has spoken on many topics related to weight loss, mental health, parenting and relationships. Dr. Abby is also president of DAA, Inc.

For information regarding coaching, speaking, or therapeutic products, please visit her website at www.DearDrAbby.com.

Celebrity Eating Disorders: How Media Feeding Frenzy Affects Us

2009-10-05T09:26:00.000-07:00

Article posted originally on diettogo.com

Thin celebrities. They look soooo good, but are so sick. We not only admire and critique them, but often seek to emulate their thin appearance.

How many of us have ever said, “OMG – did you see how much weight she gained?” Women are judged harsher than men on screen and in real life, and by comparison, the great majority of us come up short… and fat. 

 Never mind the team of decorators who correct celebrity flaws through computer imaging, air-brushing, flashy clothes, knockout makeup, and other seductive manipulations. We want to be thinner, like them. We want to bathe in the rewards, real and imagined, of looking and feeling thin. 

 You say you’re not affected by celebrity weight? Conscious or not, I believe most of us are influenced by media bombardment of the unrealistically thin ideal. Let’s face it ladies, if we lived in a cave, would we really endure serial dieting and high heels?  

Paula Abdul (right), Victoria Beckham, Jane Fonda and Michael Jackson. Elton John, Alanis Morisette, Mary-Kate Olsen and Joan Rivers.

This handful of self-proclaimed eating disorder sufferers can join Ally Sheedy, Calista Flockhart, Meredith Viera, Kate Winslet, Ashlee Simpson, and scores of other famous people who have publicly admitted struggling with food, weight and body image disorders, according to the Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center.

Although anorexia and bulimia are extreme forms of disordered eating, I would also lump yo-yo dieters into same dysfunctional dump. Tabloids scream about celebrities being too fat or too thin, which perpetuates the problem and feeds the frenzy. 

The death of Michael Jackson ignited speculation that an eating disorder contributed to his death. Since then, some interesting facts have come to light. Phentermine was discovered during a raid of Mr. Jackson’s doctor’s premises. Phentermine is half of the infamous phen-fen weight loss plan, which was removed from the market due to heart-valve abnormalities.    

Michael Jackson has previously disclosed bouts of bulimia, and I wondered if his doctor had been complicit in feeding his eating disorder. In a Larry King interview, Mr. Jackson’s manager said the doctor would be traveling to England, to make sure Michael ate properly and received enough fluids, during strenuous routines.

It was comforting to hear of medical monitoring, but questions abound regarding this doctor’s ethics and judgment, especially regarding improper use of sleep anesthetic. Mr. Jackson’s painfully thin frame suggests an ongoing struggle to maintain a healthy weight.   

My concern was that intense exercise, not properly managed with fluids and electrolytes, could easily cause heart problems – the plausible cause of death. This is often what kills eating disorder victims, along with emaciation caused by malnutrition.   

Too many celebrities and other victims look great – lying in their coffins, as the world and loved ones mourn their death.

Check this link for more information about celebrities and eating disorders: http://www.edreferral.com/Celebrities_who_died_or_have_Eating_Disorders.htm

Dr. Abby graduated from Columbia University, and holds 2 masters degrees and a Ph.D. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and Mensa. As a psychologist in private practice for 16 years she helped people with a wide variety of concerns, and has spoken on many topics related to weight loss, mental health, parenting and relationships. Dr. Abby is also president of DAA, Inc.

For information regarding coaching, speaking, or therapeutic products, please visit her website at www.DearDrAbby.com.

Didja see the latest headlines????

2009-09-29T09:14:00.000-07:00

Excess Pounds, but Not Too Many, May Lead to Longer Life
Article posted originally on diettogo.com

Now how about that!

One might be shocked, unless you read about the huge U.S. government population study (NHANES) which found 86,094 fewer deaths in the overweight range, and 33,746 more deaths in the thin range, compared to "normal" BMI’s (18.5 to 24.9).

In fact, every population study I have read confirms this phenomenon.

This particular study analyzed data on 11,326 Canadian adults, ages 25 and older, for a 12-year period. Overweight people (BMI of 25-29.9) were 17 percent less likely to die than those of average weight, while underweight people (BMI less than 18.5) were 73 percent more likely to die than average weight folks.

Apparently, some excess weight is protective, especially for the elderly, who have the greatest risk of dying. Many health conditions associated with being overweight, like high blood pressure, may have developed because people are living so long. However, these conditions are now successfully treated with medication.

In fact, the death rate from cancer in the U.S. is astronomically higher than in India – because Indians generally weigh less, and don’t live long enough for cancer to develop! Therefore, the "overweight edge" often augments survival, though media often spins this data negatively. For instance, the cancer study headlines screamed about overweight people being more likely to die of cancer… but never mentioned that it was because they lived longer!

The day before the Canadian story broke, the following headline also hit the N.Y. Times: "Obesity May Have Offered Edge Over TB." This study offered specific evidence confirming that people with excess fat stores were more likely to survive famines, over the course of human evolution.

Fat may not only store energy, but also seems to rev up the body’s immune system, which offered a survival advantage in the 1800s, when people were plagued by tuberculosis.

One author from The Journal of the American Medical Association, was quoted saying that this little miracle has “outlived its usefulness,” and another doctor said that we are paying a high price for a highly activated defense system that’s now pretty obsolete.

Do they actually believe this? What if we were nuked, and our food supply was contaminated? Who might survive to propagate the species? People with a little meat on their bones, I dare say. Survival of the fattest?

Since being "overweight" can be protective, can we finally eliminate the word overweight, and just call it the "healthy weight?" Instead of describing fat as excess weight, can we simply call it a blessing? Or will discrimination and ingrained attitudes continue this charade of making overweight people feel bad about themselves?

If I had my druthers, I would eliminate all demarcations regarding weight, since there are certainly some thin people who outlive some fat people. There are no absolutes, only trends.

"Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution" is ready and willing to lead the way towards becoming your personal best, regardless of size. My life’s work teaches people how to lead a relatively healthy lifestyle - without yo-yo dieting, which encourages enjoyment of food and movement. Discrimination towards yourself and others is no longer acceptable. Onward!

Dr. Abby Aronowitz is a psychologist, speaker and coach, who completed work at Columbia University. She holds two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. Previously a consultant to Weight Watchers International, Dr. Abby has been featured on WebMD.com and AOL Diet and Fitness. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and Mensa.

Why You Can't Bowl Over Those Last 10 lbs!

2009-09-19T14:42:00.000-07:00

Article posted originally on diettogo.com

Have you ever been stuck at the point where you can’t lose those last 10 pounds? You know, the constant struggle, where no matter which diet you try, you always hit that damn plateau before you bowl over the last few pounds and get to goal weight?

Did you ever think about why you can’t lose those last 10 pounds? Your body may be trying to tell you something… and you don’t wanna listen!

So maybe it's time to change lanes and strike back at your plateau.

Finding your personal ideal weight and maintaining it forever is different from attaining an idealized cultural image, which we find attractive. You may think you’re striving for a realistic goal, but it appears that your body sees it differently.

Successful weight management has to be relatively comfortable. If you must create uncomfortable contortions to maintain a weight, which is so fragile that the smell or sight of food causes weight gain… there’s a problem.

Experts all think they have an answer for this.

Some say you’re still eating too much, and others say you’re eating too little so you’re body is conserving fat. Others say you’re not eating often enough to stimulate metabolism, or you’re not eating a good enough breakfast, or not exercising sufficiently.

All of these may actually be true… or not. But ask yourself if these changes are sustainable in the long run.

The ideal weight espoused through magazines, TV, movies and billboards makes us want to mirror those images. We all think we look better thinner than most of us can realistically maintain. Very few people are naturally thin, and I’ll bet that nobody reading this blog is!

We need to find a way to make peace with a reasonable, healthy weight, regardless of whether you like its appearance. Just decorate your body beautifully, and stop obsessing. Worrying about food, weight or body image is counterproductive to living a productive, enjoyable life. Your body is a vessel to carry you through interesting and passionate experiences. Don’t shoot the messenger! Just do enough to keep it working pretty well.

Dr. Abby Aronowitz
YOUR FINAL DIET

Did Poor Body Image Kill Michael Jackson?

2009-07-13T08:06:00.000-07:00

Blog posted originally on diet.com July 13, 2009
---------------------------

Did Michael Jackson's body image disturbances ultimately kill him? Could he ever be thin enough, young enough, or white enough?

Michael Jackson embodied conflict between black and white, boy and man, male and female.

The physical manifestations of these psychological struggles played out for all the world to see.

Of course it seems likely that drug cocktails had a hand in his demise, but I am haunted by his hauntingly thin image. Perhaps his body could tolerate the intense concoctions better, if there was some meat on his bones.

All reports of food generally suggested healthy fare (i.e. chicken and vegetables), but given his strenuous dance and fitness routine, could this possibly be enough?

Control issues typically characterize eating disorders. One may not be able to control life stressors, but nobody else controls what does or doesn’t go into your mouth. His imminent super-duper comeback was probably overwhelmingly stressful. And, given the extremeness of the situation, it seems a member of his entourage was hired primarily to ensure that Mr. Jackson ate.

Poking around the Internet revealed that he discussed suffering bulimia as a boy, in response to his abusive father. Joe Jackson's incredibly controlling nature, coupled with Michael's fears of harsh discipline, could certainly explain an increased need for control. Restricting or purging food often makes one feel healthier, lighter, and even euphoric. It can fool one into believing this behavior is good, when in fact it may be debilitating.

A heart attack is sometimes an unfortunate effect of eating disorders. An imbalance of electrolytes adversely affects the heart, which can be caused by excessive sweating during exertion, or purging during bulimia.

Michael Jackson’s body image dissatisfaction is evidenced by the history of bulimia and other extreme measures, including serial surgeries, makeup and wigs.

Pressure to live up to cultural norms can cause distorted body image perceptions and obsessions. How many of us feel pressure to be thinner, and struggle with expectations to be skinnier than we are destined to be?

Any member of a discriminated group is programmed to reject or dislike that part of themselves which is disdained by others. Hating oneself for being fat can cause harmful attempts at yo-yo dieting, and other eating disorders.

Celebrity worship involves an irrational worship of thin, youth, and in many cases white. Check out my interview with WebMD about celebrity worship -- it was recently rated #1 on the Internet by Google.

The first step to reducing weight-related Body Image Dysmorphia is to proliferate the truth about "thin" being more deadly than "overweight."

Last week’s blog below discussed the Canadian study finding that thin people had a 73% higher death rate than normal weight people, while overweight people had a 17% lower rate. This confirmed the U.S. government study finding 86,000 fewer deaths in the overweight range and 33,000 more deaths in the thin range.

Perhaps as we lay to rest Mr. Jackson’s thin body, we can bury the unrealistically thin stereotype, and finally be content to become our personal best.

Dr. Abby Aronowitz is a psychologist, speaker and coach, who completed work at Columbia University. She holds two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. Previously a consultant to Weight Watchers International, Dr. Abby has been featured on WebMD.com and AOL Diet and Fitness. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and Mensa.

www.yourfinaldiet.com

____________________________

Recent Comments:

ama17@ 10:55am ET on July 13, 2009

I can't help but to feel sorry for Michael Jackson. Who actually knows what he suffered through? There's no one in the world who could relate to the amount of fame he received. To try to live under that pressure must've been so difficult... but it was all he knew from the start.

I'm tired of all these 'specialists' and 'medical experts' and talk show hosts alike reporting speculations... oh he hated himself so he would do THIS!

He's gone from us too soon. The only way we will know the truth of his death is when the toxicology reports come out. Until then, anyone's personal psychoanalysis shouldn't be broadcast to the world.

cjohnston @ 12:41pm ET on July 13, 2009

I don't read this as personal psychoanalysis - esp. as it's pretty much what everyone could see. He narrowed his focus to himself - irregardless of the reasons why, that's not even close to healthy for anyone. This site promotes a healthy lifestyle and the point of the article was that obsession with a distorted body image is destructive and can, and has, led to death. Good article.

Dear Gwen @ 2:32pm ET on July 13, 2009

How our parents treat us when we are children has a huge impact on how we see ourselves, and that doesn't go away just because we become adults. I believe Joe Jackson imposed impossible standards on Michael during his childhood which Michael internalized. Joe Jackson may not have been an active part of Michael's life in Michael's recent years, but Joe was alive and well inside the psyche of poor Michael, and I think this, to no small extent, contributed to Michael's lack of self acceptance. The demanding parent in his head never let up, and in the absence of other factors, such as a level-headed life partner to keep Michael grounded, he became more and more caught up in his self hatred. If Michael had had some true grounding, and some very intense psychotherapy, I believe he could have come to love himself in a way that would never have allowed him to treat his body as he did. I feel great compassion for Michael. The world will greatly miss his indescribable talent. Such a tragedy.

10lbsaway @ 5:23pm ET on July 13, 2009

I hate how I realize Michael Jackson's incredible talent AFTER he died, but he must have had SOME level of confidence in himself?? I mean, looking through all of his great achievements and how popular with the ladies he was for over three decades. Has there honestly been any guy hot enough to make women FAINT during concerts?!?!?! Man, he didn't realize how awesome he was. 12 people have even attempted suicide after he died!!!

DoctorAbby @ 10:56pm ET on July 13, 2009

Thanks to everyone for responding.

Of course we can't know the full story about how Mr. Jackson felt, or how he lived his life, but certain conflicts played out for all the world to see. Issues of perfectionism and control often accompany eating disorders, and his painfully thin body suggests that the history of bulimia may have morphed into a deadly thin arena.

Although body image issues suggest a lack of acceptance of his natural self, there was also great pride and grandiosity, evidenced by his self proclaimed status, "King of Pop," and naming his boys "Prince." This is the essence of conflict; seemingly competing issues existing simultaneously. Bulimia and other eating disorders often embody conflict; giving and taking away. Overeating and beating up oneself over it. Eating and then overexercising. Binging and purging.

We would all benefit from making peace with our "imperfect" selves, by doing our best most of the time, and offering the same kindness and acceptance we would offer to a friend, a child, or even a perfect stranger.

Then next time you say something mean to yourself about your body, ask if you would ever say this to someone else. Of course not, 'cuz it would be abusive! Likewise, how would you react if anyone else said those nasty, degrading things to you? You'd think they were assholes, right? So be kind to yourself, in the name of the King!

New Research: Excess Weight A Blessing

2009-07-06T09:20:00.000-07:00

Blog posted originally on diet.com on July 6, 2009

Didja see the latest headlines????

Excess Pounds, but Not Too Many, May Lead to Longer Life
-- N.Y. Times, June 26, 2009

Now how about that!

One might be shocked, unless you read about the huge U.S. government population study (NHANES) which found 86,094 fewer deaths in the overweight range, and 33,746 more deaths in the thin range, compared to "normal" BMI’s (18.5 to 24.9).

In fact, every population study I have read confirms this phenomenon.

This particular study analyzed data on 11,326 Canadian adults, ages 25 and older, for a 12-year period. Overweight people (BMI of 25-29.9) were 17 percent less likely to die than those of average weight, while underweight people (BMI less than 18.5) were 73 percent more likely to die than average weight folks.

Apparently, some excess weight is protective, especially for the elderly, who have the greatest risk of dying. Many health conditions associated with being overweight, like high blood pressure, may have developed because people are living so long. However, these conditions are now successfully treated with medication.

In fact, the death rate from cancer in the U.S. is astronomically higher than in India – because Indians generally weigh less, and don’t live long enough for cancer to develop! Therefore, the "overweight edge" often augments survival, though media often spins this data negatively. For instance, the cancer study headlines screamed about overweight people being more likely to die of cancer… but never mentioned that it was because they lived longer!

The day before the Canadian story broke, the following headline also hit the N.Y. Times: Obesity May Have Offered Edge Over TB. This study offered specific evidence confirming that people with excess fat stores were more likely to survive famines, over the course of human evolution.

Fat may not only store energy, but also seems ... to rev up the body’s immune system, which offered a survival advantage in the 1800s, when people were plagued by tuberculosis.

One author from The Journal of the American Medical Association, was quoted saying that this little miracle has “outlived its usefulness,” and another doctor said that we are paying a high price for a highly activated defense system that’s now pretty obsolete.

Do they actually believe this? What if we were nuked, and our food supply was contaminated? Who might survive to propagate the species? People with a little meat on their bones, I dare say. Survival of the fattest?

Since being "overweight" can be protective, can we finally eliminate the word overweight, and just call it the "healthy weight?" Instead of describing fat as excess weight, can we simply call it a blessing? Or will discrimination and ingrained attitudes continue this charade of making overweight people feel bad about themselves?

If I had my druthers, I would eliminate all demarcations regarding weight, since there are certainly some thin people who outlive some fat people. There are no absolutes, only trends.

"Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution" is ready and willing to lead the way towards becoming your personal best, regardless of size. My life’s work teaches people how to lead a relatively healthy lifestyle - without yo-yo dieting, which encourages enjoyment of food and movement. Discrimination towards yourself and others is no longer acceptable. Onward!

Click here for a FREE copy of Dr. Abby's book, Your Final Diet.

Dr. Abby Aronowitz is a psychologist, speaker and coach, who completed work at Columbia University. She holds two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. Previously a consultant to Weight Watchers International, Dr. Abby has been featured on WebMD.com and AOL Diet and Fitness. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and Mensa.

www.yourfinaldiet.com

For Women Only: Beautiful Clothes... In Our Size!

2009-06-03T12:06:00.000-07:00

Blog posted originally on - diet.com

---------------------

Women should be able to dress with style, flair and dignity, regardless of size!

We always feel better when putting on clothes that fit well, express our personality and look great. There is a new generation of large-size clothing that’ll knock your socks off!

Ditch those boring and unshapely Muumuus for something that celebrates your size. I say, if you can’t always look thin, look grand!

Some fabulous catalogues and websites feature a wide array of sizes in stylish clothes. For instance, Ashro.com offers gorgeous clothes with bold, beautiful styling. Elegant suits are complete with optional hats, which balance proportions of large women, while offering stature. Evening wear is simply divine, with international styling. There are fitted and flowing fashions in scrumptious colors, ranging from size 4 to XXXL (24-26). I’ve never seen anything like it.

Pyrimid Collection (PyramidCollection.com) also offers exotic clothing, some of which range up to 28W. This is for those with a touch of Goddess flair, or even a Gothic tone. There are beautiful corseted looks with handkerchief sleeves and Wiccan capes… along with lots of gorgeous jewelry and knickknacks.

Metrostyle.com offers sophisticated suits, leggings, jeans, and casual wear ranging from size 6–20.

Jessica London offers classic sportsware exclusively for sizes 14W-34W, with petites and talls also available .

I believe I have personally kept Newport News in business. They offer such a variety of lovely items; most of which are available up to a size 18 or XL, although there are a few items in larger sizes.

Most of these catalogues offer shoes, boots and jewelry as well.

Of course the drawback is that you can’t try on clothes before purchasing them. However, some have easy refund policies, including a flat rate of $6.95 and no time limit on returns.

One word of caution: if you order something and don’t want to receive a mountain of unsolicited catalogues, simply ask them not to rent your name when ordering. Otherwise you’ll be buried in paper... like me!

Dr. Abby Aronowitz is a psychologist, speaker and coach, who completed work at Columbia University. She holds two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. Previously a consultant to Weight Watchers International, Dr. Abby has been featured on WebMD.com and AOL Diet and Fitness. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and Mensa.

Dr. Abby Aronowitz
Your Final Diet

Excercise: The Way Nature Intended

2009-05-14T13:51:00.000-07:00

Blog posted originally on diet.com - 5/14/09

Last week, I squared off with the South Beach Diet Doctor Arthur Agatson to discuss whether it's possible for a person to be both fit and fat at the same time.

This week, my discussion continues with a debate about interval exercise versus high intensity exercise.

Dr. Abby: Dr. Agatston, as a dancer, I was thrilled to read about benefits of interval exercise and its relation to dangerous fat. Could you please clarify this?

Dr. Agatston: Yes! Since we wrote the book South Beach Diet Supercharged, the literature is just getting more and more impressive, specifically for “interval” versus “steady state” exercise.

You get definite benefits from high intensity exercise for treating metabolic syndrome and diabetes. When a period of high intensity exercise is followed by a rest period, you can do more high intensity exercise.

For instance, if you just sprint, you’re going to be out of breath and be done. However, when you do a “work cycle” followed by a “recovery cycle,” you can get more high intensity in overall, than if you just go high intensity until you’re exhausted.

Some studies, where they’ve actually done muscle biopsies, show improved insulin sensitivity when intervals include high intensity exercise. Other studies found that you lose more belly fat, and more fat in general, given the same calorie output with interval versus steady state exercise.

Intervals also recall the way our ancestors behaved; the natural way we perform. High intensity was usually done where there was work and rest, such as shoveling, picking, plowing or pushing.

Dr. Abby: I love that you recall “back to nature,” and the way that our bodies were intended to work. That’s really a bedrock of my philosophy; health at every size naturally. We should learn what our bodies are meant to do, and work with it instead of fighting it.

Dr. Agatston: Yes! Things like walking to school, and incorporating exercise into our everyday lives again is important. My primary theme today is that our bodies were designed to live in the wild. When you look at the extremely different lifestyles of today, including sitting over a computer all day and not moving, grabbing fast food, driving everywhere, and shopping on the Internet, it is the antithesis of what we were meant to be doing.

Dr. Abby: I agree! Dr. Agatston, thanks for another enlightening ...

Commentary: Start dancin’! Dancing is high intensity exercise followed by rest, and is fun, fun, fun! Of course if you’d rather plow and shovel, that’s fine too, since working outside with nature can bring solace, joy, and apparently health!

Interval exercising can be done with any activity you enjoy. It’s not about the type of exercise; it’s about the process. “Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution” suggests living a sustainable, healthy lifestyle, rather than losing weight per se. Concentrating on the “process” insures a great outcome, instead of focusing on the outcome, which may be obtained by temporary or artificial measures.

Moving your body more naturally, and for pleasure, increases the likelihood of sticking to it. Too many of my patients begin an intense exercise regime when they’re “in the zone.” They’re dieting, exercising, getting on the scale, and completely obsessed with weight loss. After a period of time they cannot sustain the intensity, and the whole thing falls apart.

Creating a more moderate lifestyle, which includes interval exercise, might help us to win the war, instead of fighting miserable battles that we keep on losing.

A more complete version of this interview will be found in my next book, Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution! This is a small excerpt from a rather extensive interview. To obtain a copy when it becomes available, please click here to sign up, and receive a free pdf of my current book, Your Final Diet.

NOTE: Some editorial license was used to edit Dr. Agatston’s lengthy answers to my questions. Every effort was made to preserve the integrity of content.

For more information about South Beach Diet, click here.

GET A FREE COPY OF THE SOUTH BEACH DIET SUPERCHARGED! Dr. Agatston has graciously provided copies of his bestselling book, now out in paperback. To get your free copy of this insightful and enlightening book, simply become a Diet.com Premium Member today. Be sure to use Coupon Code FREEOFFER66 when completing your enrollment.

Dr. Abby Aronowitz is a psychologist, speaker and coach, who completed work at Columbia University. She holds two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. Previously a consultant to Weight Watchers International, Dr. Abby has been featured on WebMD.com and AOL Diet and Fitness. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and Mensa.

Dr. Abby Aronowitz - Your Final Diet

Diet Face-Off: Dr. Abby vs. Dr. South Beach

2009-05-04T12:44:00.000-07:00

Blog posted originally on diet.com - 5/4/09

Is it possible to be both fat and fit? It's a question that's been near and dear to me for many years now. I believe that YES... you can be "fat" and still fit.

I recently sat down with a respected diet expert -- Dr. Arthur Agatston, creator of The South Beach Diet -- to get his opinions on this important matter.

Does Dr. Agatston, aka "Dr. South Beach" believe that people can be fat and fit, or does he believe that fat people need to lose weight in order to be healthy? His answers to my probing questions may surprise you.

Check out Part 1 of this exclusive interview with the South Beach Diet Doc:

Dr. Abby: Dr. Agatston, you have used the term "fat and fit." Could you please elaborate on how that's possible?

Dr. Agatston: Yes, actually the term is from Dr. Steven Blair from the Cooper Clinic originally. It's the idea that some people who are a little pudgy or overweight, or have a high BMI, can be in good shape. They have a low risk for coronary disease. In my practice we see, for instance, overweight women with blood chemistries of a vegetarian marathoner! Instead of high triglycerides and low HDL (good cholesterol), they have low triglycerides and very high HDLs. They're really at low risk. The flip side is what's been coined at the Mayo clinic as "normal weight obesity," where people have normal BMI's but have little bowling balls in their bellies, and are at high risk.

Dr. Abby: I agree! I have certainly found that people can be fit and fat in my practice. It has been frustrating for them and frustrating for me to help them to accept their bodies, which they see as not thin enough. How might one identify their ideal weight?

Dr. Agatston: I go patient by patient looking at their "lifestyle numbers," including triglycerides, HDL, insulin resistance and blood pressure. If they're not having exaggerated swings in blood sugar, then they lose cravings and are satisfied with food. I really go by the physiologic risk factors, rather than by BMI's or weight tables. There are some pretty extreme cases. One woman I discuss has always been "roly poly." She doesn't have cravings, and doesn't eat a lot. She's been on a diet and lost a little bit, but has an HDL of 80 and triglycerides in the 50s. She's just not at high risk. She has something that people don't understand in general; I'll say a low metabolism.

Dr. Abby: I agree that we need to get away from an ideal weight or BMI. It’s more about those lifestyle measures. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on this important matter.

Commentary: I am thrilled to hear the South Beach diet doc acknowledge that it’s all about living the healthiest life you can, without regard for weight. We must accept whatever size our body becomes… with grace and dignity. I call it our personal best!

However, the hard part is accepting the body size that results from living a relatively healthy lifestyle. We will probably think it looks too fat, since very few people are naturally thin.

Natural body weights are very diverse, yet we have been taught that fat people are ugly, unattractive, and worth less than thin people. You may believe this yourself, and beat yourself up for being what is considered overweight, unhealthy and unattractive.

This begins a very unhealthy cycle, which drains self-esteem, erodes confidence and diminishes self worth. This deteriorates the desire and ability to take good care of yourself and stand proud.

A more complete version of this interview will be found in my next book, Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution! This is a small excerpt from a rather extensive interview. To obtain a copy of the complete interview when it becomes available, please click here to sign up, and receive a free PDF of my current book, Your Final Diet.

Please check back soon for the next installment of the "Dr. Abby vs. Dr. South Beach" interview.

NOTE: Some editorial license was used to edit Dr. Agatston’s lengthy answers to my questions. Every effort was made to preserve the integrity of content.

GET A FREE COPY OF THE SOUTH BEACH DIET SUPERCHARGED! Dr. Agatston has graciously provided copies of his bestselling book, now out in paperback. To get your free copy of this insightful and enlightening book, simply become a Diet.com Premium Member today. Be sure to use Coupon Code FREEOFFER66 when completing your enrollment.

Dr. Abby Aronowitz is a psychologist, speaker and coach, who completed work at Columbia University. She holds two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. Previously a consultant to Weight Watchers International, Dr. Abby has been featured on WebMD.com and AOL Diet and Fitness. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and Mensa.

Dr. Abby Aronowitz
Your Final Diet

Dr. Abby Reveals Her 1,825-Calorie Diet

2009-04-15T13:25:00.000-07:00

Food and Movement Diary: Saturday, April 11th

Woke up (at 1:30PM!), and after doing a few chores, ate some red grapes (50 calories), two organic hot dogs (320 calories), and two slices of 12-grain bread (220 calories). I took supplements of green tea extract to fight off cancer, resveretrol (red wine ingredient) to prolong my life, glucosomine to make it hurt less, calcium, a multi, and a softgel of omega fish oils.

Later on, I indulged in a delightful outdoor bath in my private woods, with weights on my ankles for stretching. (Woo Hooo!)

Afterwards, other weights on my arms and legs augmented 50 abdominal exercises, in preparation for my hour and a half dance lesson. We did west coast swing (my personal favorite), hustle, bolero, cha cha and east coast swing. I actually strapped on weights and danced a couple of rounds with them too, for muscle strength.

It was a bit cloddy, but my partner was patient! I’m a dancin’ queen, and can really shake my size-16 booty!

We munched on a few dark chocolate covered almonds. The caffeine gave us stamina, and dark chocolate slathered us in antioxidants. (75 calories).

So far, I’d eaten 665 calories, a happy amalgam of fruit, nuts, dark chocolate, organic beef and 12 whole grains.

After a few more chores, I made dinner, while munching on fresh veggies, a bit of natural salad dressing and a glass of wine. (175 calories). There was an omega rich egg with a dollop of whipped cream cheese and melted pepperjack cheese (230 calories), four slices of natural bacon (only 120 calories!) and another slice of 12-grain bread (110 calories). Two large, luscious strawberries were dipped into natural chocolate pudding for dessert (100 calories).

Later on, I enjoyed a cup of tea with soy milk and honey (35 calories), seven cookies and a biscotti (without hydrogenated oils or high fructose corn syrup) –- these 500 calories of deliciousness were probably craved because of my intense workout, right?

Total for the day: 1,825 calories.

Waddayathink of "Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution?" The USDA recommends 1,800 calories per day for the average sedentary woman my age. Today was far from sedentary, but I didn’t need more calories, since these were completely satisfying.

Everything was delicious, and there were no toxins. Eating when hungry and stopping when full is something I practice as well as preach. Tea helped with satiety.

What’s the breakdown?

Protein came from organic beef, natural bacon, egg, cheese and soymilk. Bread provided whole grain carbs. Grapes and strawberries count as fruit, and salad counts as salad! Chocolate pudding offered calcium and happiness, joy came from wine, and other sweets were simply delightful.

Luckily, the fish oil supplement, provided health benefits without many calories, since there seemed to be lots of saturated fats today. On dance days, I typically eat more sugar and fat, since burning more calories. Other days generally include more veggies, fish or beans, and a few hundred calories less. Being in tune with cravings and energy requirements helps meet individual needs.

Remember, health is determined by fitness, rather than weight loss. It’s about living a relatively healthy lifestyle instead of inducing a temporary state of deprivation.

How creative can you be with 1,825 calories? Sticking to a diet is easy, when you create your own plan.

“Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution” means tailoring calories and movement to what works for you, with an eye on health, and an emphasis on delish!

Click here for a FREE copy of Dr. Abby's book, Your Final Diet

Blog posting was originally posted on Diet.com

Dr. Abby Aronowitz
Your Final Diet

Do Men Really Want Thin Women?

2009-03-13T06:56:00.000-07:00

Do most guys want thin women? They make fun of overweight women, and drool over emaciated actresses, so what kind of a chance do mere mortals have?

Well, thin may be in (at the moment), but I believe there may be a difference between what looks good and what feels good to men.

Let’s face it, very few of us in the real world resemble television or movie stars, but men still want to get some lovin'... if ya know
what I mean.

Many people are turned off by extremes: extremely heavy, extremely thin, or extremely tall and extremely short. This seems to be human nature, but nature is often self-correcting. For instance, a very short guy may find a very short woman attractive, so who cares what the masses think?

There is certainly a culture of men who believe large is lovely, and feel secure wrapped in the physical and psychological comfort of a large body. Latino and black men seem to lust after ultra curvy (dare we say meaty) mates. Certainly there are women who feel safe in the arms of big men.

Many men may admire models, but may not like to squeeze a bag o’ bones. In fact, many men would probably be happy to accept a few extra pounds on their women if they just stopped complaining about their weight, or talking about what they ate, wanted to eat, will eat or shouldn’t have eaten! I think they’ve heard enough about your huge thighs and fat butt!

Confidence, kindness and sensuality create more attraction than a particular body weight. Good sexual techniques make men forget about your cellulite! Initial appearances wear thin rather quickly. Who cares how much you weigh if you're annoying to be with, because deprivation makes you cranky?

A fit body works best, and healthy living produces a vehicle with which to enjoy all the wonders of life. Too many people don’t realize that healthy bodies come in all sizes, and that can feel good to you as well as him.

Let’s celebrate becoming our personal best. It’s a basic tenet of “Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution!”

Blog posting was originally posted on Diet.com

Dr. Abby Aronowitz
Your Final Diet

---------------------------------------------

Comments from Abby's readers on diet.com blog:

COMMENT FROM: adiamond007 on March 13, 2009

meatspin113 said: i don't understand what you mean by 'lovin' please get back to me

COMMENT FROM: atwistedlime on March 14, 2009

I agree. I have found many a man that was turned off my extra curves but have found MANY a man that is turned on by it. It is safe for me to say I don't mind looking a buff men but I do prefer someone a little softer to wake up with. :-)
Healthy is the key for me.

COMMENT FROM: Username: Lynnette214 COMMENT: on March 16, 2009

Ha! Great post! I personally am a size four on a big day (I have a small frame) but I very much enjoyed this! Yes, so we have a little extra belly...maybe a little extra tush. I don't hear him complaining either... ;) Thank you for the encouragement!

COMMENT FROM: adiamond007 on April 7, 2009

As a Dr. where do you get off calling another woman bag'o bones. I am VERY offended by that comment. Did you get pleasure from that? Why do you women have to put down thin women to lift thick women up?

DoctorAbby's response: Hi adiamond007,

Thanks for pointing out that my language came off as demeaning. I intended it to be colorful, but you are absolutely right, and I apologize. Mea culpa!

COMMENT FROM: jindha on April 15, 2009

VERY NICE TO READ, AWAITING TO HEAR MORE FROM YOU DOCTOR ABBY

JUDE

Health Foods You'll Eat... And Enjoy!

2009-02-25T11:55:00.001-08:00

By now we’ve all heard that white flour is bad for you and whole grain is good. But what if you or your family doesn’t like the taste of whole grain pasta? Health food isn’t good for you, unless you eat it!

Here are some great tips to improve the way our bodies process the white stuff, by minimizing potentially harmful effects.

The problem with white pasta, white bread and white rice is that some genius decided to eliminate the most nutritious parts, including fiber and nutrition. The carbohydrates break down too fast, which increases blood sugar and spikes insulin. The process happens too quickly for the body’s own good, and hunger can hit again soon.

BUT if you intercept this process, the whole system would slow down. For instance, protein, fat and fiber reduce the glycemic index of white foods, stabilize glucose levels, and keep appetite at bay.

There’s a fabulous product called textured vegetable protein (TVP - pictured above). This little wonder has barely any calories, but adds a decent dose of fiber and protein to any dish. It has no perceptible taste, but picks up flavor from foods and sauces it is cooked with. The only ingredient is defatted soy flour.

Dry TVP looks like granola, and has the consistency of ground meat after reconstituting it in water. Vegetarians use it to substitute for meat in a bolognese sauce, or for chopped clams in a faux clam sauce. A quarter cup dry has 80 calories, 0 fat, and adds 12 g of protein and 4g of fiber, along with Iron, Potassium and Magnesium. I can just toss a few pinches into an entre for one.

TVP is an exceptional product, and at $2.39 for a 10 oz package, it is cheap enough to cure world hunger! CLICK HERE for more info

Spelt flour is another outstanding product. This looks and feels like white flour, and I use it to thicken sauces, instead of cornstarch. You can also buy spelt pasta, which has nearly triple the protein and fiber of white pasta. It contains all eight essential amino acids needed by the human body, and is a good source of manganese, niacin, thiamin, and copper. I’d suggest mixing some with white pasta to gradually introduce it. This will reduce the glycemic index, and add impeccable nutrition.

Olive oil also reduces the glycemic index of white bread and others in a healthy way, since healthy fats slow the breakdown of unhealthy carbs.

The trick is to slow absorption, while adding nutrition, without spoiling taste! These tricks do all of the above.

Blog posting was originally posted on Diet.com

Dr. Abby Aronowitz
www.yourfinaldiet.com

--------------------------------------------

A couple of posts from Abby's diet.com blog:

bigfatmom says @ 11:25am ET on February 27, 2009

I wish i could lose weight really bad. Because my mom was very over weight when she die at the age of 58 yrs.old. And I don't what my my daughter look at me and call me fat again.I 'm 278 lbs. and I have no money to start this program. Can someone help me.Before I die. I don't what to die at a very young age(35 yrs old)

BigFatMom

Doctor Abby says @ 3:21pm ET on March 1, 2009

Dear Big Fat Mom,

Thanks for writing!

The best way to improve your health is to focus on "lifestyle." Stop worrying about dying, or whether people call you fat, and begin to do what you can to live more actively, given your money situation and physical health. Begin taking baby steps towards doing exercise, if you've been too lazy. This can be as simple as walking up and down a single flight of stairs, a few times a week. Just move your body more than you've been moving it. Research has found that health can improve by increasing movement, regardless if weight is lost! Continue incorporating new ways of moving your body, and slowly increase the time spent doing it... for the rest of your life! It doesn't have to be a crazy exercise regime that lasts for a few weeks and then ends.

Next, try eliminating transfats from your diet. The ingredient usually says "partially hydrogenated oil" or margarine. These are killer fats. Don't worry so much about the other fats.

If you smoke, try to quit; this is even more dangerous in my opinion than being fat.

Now, begin listening to your body, for feelings of hunger and fullness. Try eating slowly when hungry, and stopping when full, not stuffed.

If you tend to binge, pick one crunchy carbohydrate that is relatively low calorie and only binge on that. Good examples are flavored rice cakes, or, my favorite, Pirate's Booty.

Next, incorporate healthy junk food, so you can be satisfied without feeling deprived. There's a list of brand names in the appendix of my book, "Your Final Diet."

This is my best prescription for living the longest life possible, given your genes. Your genes have programmed you to be a large woman, so become the best large woman you can be!

All best,

Dr. Abby!

-------------------------------------------

ScoutMomAng sats @ 8:29am ET on March 1, 2009

Dr Abby,

You never mention where to buy this stuff. If I can't find it how can I try it?

Doctor Abby says @ 3:26pm ET on March 1, 2009

Hi ScoutMom,

Thanks for writing.

My fantastic web designer, Terri Negron found some links for you. They can be found on my personal blog. http://yourfinaldiet.blogspot.com/

Dr. Abby

The Easiest Exercise In The World!

2009-02-12T10:43:00.000-08:00

We all know we should exercise.

Have you ever attempted exercise with great vigor, only to deflate after a few weeks or months? Does this correspond with your food diligence as well, being either “on” or “off” your diet?

People often go through a period where they’re “in the zone.” They watch what they eat, exercise, get on the scale regularly, and feel a strong sense of control. They catch a quick burst of joy when the scale inches down… or if someone asks if they’ve lost weight!

Of course, the other side of this tarnished coin is the sloppy opposite -- eating like a pig, not caring, feeling out of control, and barely moving your butt.

This is all part of the “diet mentality.” It’s a set up for yo-yo dieting, which typically makes it much easier for the body to store fat and regain weight. This may adversely affect blood pressure and other measures of health.

We need one way of living that’s relatively healthy and can last forever.

So, my latest recommendation incorporates a new and exciting exercise. This workout is so easy and convenient, that you’ll barely know you’re doing it!

It is the new crown jewel of Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution!

The first step is buying some strap-on wrist and ankle weights. They’re cheap and can be found online right HERE

Upon arrival, strap those babies on, and simply go about your business at home. Ta da! It’s instant weight-bearing exercise. Emptying the dishwasher is now a weight-bearing exercise. Taking the garbage out or putting away laundry magically becomes strength training.

Your muscles and bones will thank you profusely, as you celebrate a major victory. Isn’t this as easy as it gets? Even if you spend most free time on the couch, you’ll even be exercising more muscles when you get up to go the fridge!

For bonus points, do some stretches in every direction from time to time. Want some aerobics? Jump up and down. If you’re too lazy to do this, you need deep therapy. (I’m available!)

More Product Info: Adjustable combination Ankle/Wrist weights.
CLICK HERE

Dr. Abby Arononwitz - www.yourfinaldiet.com
Blog posting was originally posted on diet.com

Food & Porn: The Naked Truth

2009-01-30T17:39:00.000-08:00

Someone once asked me if they should leave their fiance because she found out he watched porn behind her back. It made her feel insecure and ugly knowing this... and all the more likely to eat for comfort.

I said that watching porn does not seem to be a good enough reason to end a relationship... or eat compulsively! Plenty of relationships survive -- and even thrive -- when one or both partners watch porn.

The question is: how’s the rest of your relationship? Does he show you love in other ways? Is he kind and considerate? Do you enjoy each other's company? How’s your sex life? Do you communicate well?

How does HE make you feel insecure and ugly? Does he say you look ugly compared to those women? Does he make any disparaging remarks about your body? If so, this is abusive, and I could understand why you wouldn’t want to be with him.

Love should transcend cellulite, when the relationship is fulfilling in other ways.

If he does not insult you, then you are doing it to yourself. Insecurities about your “imperfect” body are leaking into the relationship, yet you are blaming him, and wanting to control him into not watching.

It might be best not to discuss it, since he has the good sense to do it behind your back and not in front of your face... although it might be fun to have a sexual encounter while watching porn together!

Evaluate your relationship to see if it is healthy, enjoyable and comfortable. If you conclude that it’s fine except for this, I advise you to accept it and be glad that he’s not having sex with porn stars (or others); only watching them on a screen!

Another idea is to find out what turns him on and do a little role-playing yourself. Hey, you might even enjoy it!

Of course if you evaluate your relationship to find that he is abusive or demeaning towards you, get out or get help. Comfort eating only allows the situation to continue, without taking positive action.

Here is the number for a 24-hour hotline -- 1-800-799-7233. It's available in all 50 states and translators are available.

Click to Purchase Abby's book

Hooray For Healthy Junk Foods!

2009-01-24T07:52:00.000-08:00

Are your kids sick of school lunches yet? How can you encourage them to take the high road when it comes to nutrition at school, when all they want is pizza?

Here’s a news flash: most children prefer taste over nutrition, so we need to beat them at their own game. Then everyone wins! Educating them about nutrition is important, but doesn't always translate into better choices.

Thank goodness for "healthy junk foods." This new generation of health food tastes delicious, and bears no resemblance to their cardboard- and Styrofoam-flavored ancestors.

Try sending along Frito Lay Sun Chips, which are whole grain, and made with natural oil.

Garden of Eatin' sesame blues or multigrain chips are always a hit, perhaps with salsa, as cleverly disguised veggies. Flat Earth chips offer half a serving of real fruits and vegetables, and Smart Food popcorn is universally loved. Portion control can be created with resealable bags.

Tropical Source fruit leather has no high fructose corn syrup; and when paired with a few dark chocolates, it's antioxidant heaven. My book, Your Final Diet, offers a more complete list of brand name choices.

What if you allowed your child to eat pizza, if they only order one piece and have salad and/or fruit with it? Exact change may ensure compliance. Maybe you can work out a system that allows an unhealthy lunch for every two days that a healthy lunch is eaten.

Throw in toy surprises for young children, or a silly joke they can share with their friends. For older kids, toss in a personal story about yourself, if they agree to take lunch. That might improve your relationship too, by making you appear more human!

If all else fails, try bribing them! Better choices earn money or points towards privileges. Hey, whatever it takes!

As originally posted on www.diet.com

Click to Purchase Abby's book

Dr. Abby's Diet Revolution!

2009-01-19T07:54:00.000-08:00

For Immediate Release:

"Dr. Abby's Diet Revolution!" is being launched on Diet.com on January 19th, 2009. American's are starving for change, so Dr. Abby serves up a heapin' helping of her revolutionary "HAES" diet.

Dr. Abby Aronowitz is pleased to announce the launch of "Dr. Abby's Diet Revolution!" on the home page of www.Diet.com on January 19th.

"Are you starving for change? Had your fill of dieting, losing weight, and gaining it back? Well, have a heapin’ helping of Dr. Abby's "HAES” diet; a revolutionary way of living that helps you to discover health, without overeating, under-eating or yo-yo dieting."

The focus on "fitness" has very little to do with weight loss. Fitness is measured by physical strength and endurance, and biological markers include blood pressure, cholesterol and insulin resistance. Weight and BMI are completely invalid measures of fitness, since they do not include any of these components.

We need to inform all Americans that exercise can improve blood pressure, cholesterol and insulin resistance, regardless of weight. Transfats are unhealthy for everyone, and it’s always a good idea to eat when hungry and stop when full. Good health and nutrition are not limited to thin people. In fact, many genetically fat people must have an eating disorder, in order to maintain their weight below a genetic set point.

Interestingly, we've maximized our genetic potential for height, weight, and IQ during these relative times of abundance; but only heard about the weight gain; which was considered bad. Now that "abundance" has evaporated, we're back to basics.

Let's stop yo-yo dieting, which is potentially harmful, and live a relatively healthy lifestyle that is easy and satisfying. Enjoy a bunch of my "healthy junk foods;" delicious natural versions of the junk we love, but without potentially harmful chemicals. Imagine having an all natural toaster waffle for breakfast with a scoop of all natural (not supreme) ice cream for breakfast! For under 300 calories there's protein, fiber, calcium carbohydrates, some sugar to kill the appetite, and fat to keep it away. Who needs to binge, when meals are so fantastic???

"Dr. Abby's Diet Revolution" is backed by important research, from the Univ. of California. Dr. Linda Bacon's work is reviewed in the Diet.com blog. Essentially, she found that when the focus was on a healthy lifestyle, and accepting your resultant size... instead of weight loss per se, subjects showed dramatic improvements in health.

After 2 years, the Health At Every Size (HAES) subjects quadrupled their moderate physical activity, showed a significant decrease in LDL (“bad” cholesterol), lowered their systolic blood pressure, and improved self-esteem and depression. The dieters' effects were disastrous.

Details about this study can be found in a new book entitled “Health At Avery Size; The Surprising Truth About Your Weight”, by Linda Bacon, Ph.D. Watch for my forthcoming books, entitled Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution! and Dr. Abby’s Diet Revolution For Girls! Dr.

Abby Aronowitz is a, coach, author, speaker and psychologist at the Long Island Center for Cognitive Therapy. Her book, "Your Final Diet", was endorsed by Senator Hillary Clinton, because it is very empowering to women. Dr. Abby's expertise has been tapped for WebMD.com, AOL.com, and eDiets.com, and she has spoken for the National Organization for Women (NOW), Weight Watchers International Inc., and Mensa. Her "healthy junk food meals" were featured on New York's CW 11 morning news. http://www.yourfinaldiet.com/media.html

Her expert blog for Diet.com is entitled, "Where Science Meets Sin;" a daring new approach to weight control. (Diet.com is the #1 diet site on the Internet, out of nearly 200 million sites.) She has two M.A.'s and a Ph.D., and completed graduate work at Columbia University.

For a free promotional PDF of "Your Final Diet," CLICK HERE

For more information, call 1866-AskDrAbby (1-866-927-5372) or visit YourFinalDiet.com
Abby Aronowitz, Ph.D., P.O. Box 649, Huntington, NY 11743, 631-455-8243

Press Release: Dr. Abby's Diet Revolution!

Dr. Abby Prescribes: Ideal Binge Food

2009-01-17T07:59:00.000-08:00

How would you describe compulsive eating? Shoveling in mouthfuls of whatever you can find, without regard to hunger, satiation, nutrition, or even taste, after the first few minutes? Does the act of eating become the event, rather than what you are eating? Does this happen during times of stress, boredom, or depression?

Abusive eating - eating just for the sake of eating, rather than for nutritional fuel - can feel comforting for the moment, 'til you torture yourself later.

Serotonin is a brain chemical which influences calmness and reduces depression. Carbohydrates are broken down into serotonin, which is probably why nobody ever binges on pork chops or cucumbers! Furthermore, research confirms that sugar and fat turn off chronic stress biologically.

For abusive eating, try sticking to one satisfying food; a sweet or salty low calorie carbohydrate. Make sure it’s crunchy too, which helps take out aggressions. All natural caramel covered popcorn cakes work well, as do other flavors.

Pirate’s Booty, an all natural popcorn-like food, has some protein and fat from cheese, that kills the appetite and keeps it away. None of these choices are highly caloric, so even if you polish off a whole bag, you’ve only consumed a few hundred calories, instead of a few thousand. This could be the difference between gaining 5 pounds or gaining 50 over time.

Eating one specific food when you're feeling crazed, will allow you to become a healthy eater with all other foods. If you find that you're eating something else too quickly and without regard, stop and switch to the binge food. After the neurotic eating is out of your system, return to the other food, and eat it slowly and respectfully.

This will also allow you to take care of compulsive needs, without hating yourself afterwards, since you have not inhaled a ridiculous amount of calories. Sometimes calling a friend, writing in a journal, watching TV, or exercising simply won’t do. Here’s a way to lose the battle, but win the war!

As originally posted on www.diet.com

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Keeping That Diet Resolution

2009-01-10T12:32:00.000-08:00

Tara Parker Pope’s blog on the NY Times Jan 2, ’09
(My response to Ms. Pope's blog is directly underneath her post.) :

One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is to lose weight or at least eat more healthfully. Several Web sites offer tips and tools for getting there. Healthy Holidays - 30 Days of Holiday Eating A series of daily tips, tidbits and insights about holiday food. The Joy of Cooking (Videos), Healthy Foods for Under $1

A Better Food Pyramid: Harvard nutritionists say their revamped food pyramid is based on the latest science and is “unaffected by businesses and organizations with a stake in its messages.” It starts with exercise and encourages adding more plant-based foods and cutting back on “American staples” like red meat, refined grains, potatoes and sugary drinks.

Dr. Gourmet: New Orleans physician Timothy S. Harlan, also known as Dr. Gourmet, has created free diet software that helps you plan more healthful meals. He calls it the Quality Calorie Diet Plan to reflect his belief that it’s the quality of the calories we eat that counts the most. The site creates meal plans and even offers ways to use leftovers later in the week. It includes food and exercise diaries as well as goal-tracking features, and a place for users to analyze their own recipes.

3FatChicks.com: This Web site began as a personal source of diet support for sisters Suzanne, Jennifer and Amy and has now grown into a community of over 70,000 registered members. It has the typical diet-site resources and tools, but the main appeal is the forum for dieters to share stories and find support.

Cooking Light: A great site for finding healthy and delicious foods that won’t make you feel like you’re on a diet. You’ll find recipes, nutrition information and advice on cooking techniques.

Food Blog Search: It’s not a diet site, but if you’ve resolved to cook at home more, this is a great resource for finding new recipes. This custom-built search engine uses Google technology to search for recipes in more than 2,600 food blogs.

National Body Challenge: Discovery Health’s National Body Challenge is a free fitness and weight loss program. After registering online, participants set their personal goals and create a customized eating and exercise plan. Registration gives users access to customized meal and fitness plans, a community of other Challenge participants, weight and fitness trackers and video and interactive tools as well as a 30-day free health club membership.

Weight Watchers — Although the site is offering a one-week free trial to it’s online plan, you’ll have to pay $65 for a three month subscription if you stick with it. While it’s true that most people who diet end up gaining back their weight, much of what Weight Watchers claims is backed by science. An April 2008 article in the British Journal of Nutrition looked at success rates of lifetime Weight Watchers members. They found that a year after reaching goal weight, 80 percent of participants had maintained at least 5 percent of the weight loss a year later and 27 percent of the dieters had stayed below their goal weight. While that means a lot of people regained their weight, it’s still more evidence for success than offered by most commercial diet plans.

South Beach Diet: This diet gained popularity as an alternative to the strict low-carb regimen of Atkins, with an emphasis on “good carbs” like high-fiber vegetables and whole grains. It also offers a free week trial, followed by a $5 a week membership fee.

So what have I missed? Are there other websites you’d recommend to help people lose weight and live healthier in 2009?

And for more on resolutions, read New Year, New You? Nice Try.

***********************************

Dr Abby's Response to this article:

The common concern with most diet sites is the incredible high relapse rate, and yo-yo dieting has been found to be potentially harmful. Even the Weight Watchers study cited leaves out the fact that it is a miniscule percent of clients who ever get to be lifetime members, and many people who maintain their losses develop eating disorders, or regain it within 5 years.

A better goal than weight loss is “fitness.” They are not the same! Fitness is accomplished with physical strength and endurance, and often improves blood pressure, cholesterol and insulin sensitivity, regardless if weight is lost. Exercise has also been found to improve those measures in many people, regardless of size.

A recent book, entitled entitled “Health At Avery Size; The Surprising Truth About Your Weight”, by Linda Bacon, Ph.D. offers an in depth view of a startling study at the University of California, which divided 82 obese women into two groups. One group received traditional diet advice, and the other received suggestions about how to improve health and well-being. Dieters moderately restricted food consumption, maintained food diaries and monitored weight. They measured calories and fat content, read food labels and shopped for appropriate foods, while learning about benefits of exercise.

The “Health At Every Size” (HAES) group paid close attention to hunger and fullness, and how the food made them feel. Nutritional information helped them to choose healthful foods. A support group focused on accepting their larger bodies, understanding cultural influences, and dealing with barriers preventing enjoyment of physical activity, such as negative self-image.

Results at the end of two years concluded:

• HAES subjects almost quadrupled their moderate physical activity. The dieting group significantly increased their physical activity at first, but slipped back to initial levels by the end of the study.

• HAES subjects showed a significant decrease in LDL (“bad” cholesterol) by the end of the study, whereas the dieters did not.

• Both groups significantly lowered their systolic blood pressure during the first 52 weeks of the study, but only HAES people sustained improvements by the end of the 2nd year.

• Self-esteem and depression improved significantly for HAES, while self-esteem dropped among the dieters.

• Dieters lost 5.2 percent of their initial weight in the first 24 weeks but regained almost all of it by the end of the study. HAES members maintained their initial weight.

• Ninety-two percent of HAES people completed treatment, while 42 percent of dieters dropped out prematurely.

Another useful site is called http://junkfoodscience.blogspot.com/, which critically evaluates related research, and cuts through bias and corporate interests. Consider visiting http://www.sizediversityandhealth.org, which offers information about “health at every size.”

I believe the two-part system of dieting to lose weight, and then trying to maintain that loss is what fails. Focusing on fitness offers one way of living forever, which allows people to enjoy the foods they love, while listening to hunger and satiety, incorporating nutritious foods, coping effectively, and exercising. Many thin people think it’s OK to eat junk food and not exercise because they are thin, but a thin unfit person is worse off than a fit overweight person. Remember, the CDC found approximately 86,000 FEWER deaths in the overweight range when compared with the normal weight range, and 33,000 MORE deaths in the thin range.

People come in all shapes and sizes, so the goal is to become your personal best; not conform to a thin ideal, which may be unrealistic and discouraging. My work helps people to do this, and incorporates “healthy junk foods,” to prevent binges on their unhealthy counterparts. www.selfhelpdirectives.com

Dr. Abby Aronowitz

-------------------------------Comments------------------------------

Betsy says: Thank you Dr. Abby Aronowitz! Why Oh why is TPP pushing diets again?"

TPP says: It’s not about pushing diets. It’s about giving people resources

Betsy says: So, TPP you’re giving people resources to begin the diet binge cycle anew for ‘09?!?

Dr Abby Says: You were giving people resources about DIETS... that doesn't work!

Original Posts: http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/01/02/keeping-that-diet-resolution/?apage=5#comments

And originally posted on www.diet.com

---------------------------------

Click to Purchase Abby's book

‘Twas The Week Around New Year's...

2008-12-27T10:38:00.000-08:00

‘Twas the week around New Year's
And for the past month,
Piles of food,
And holiday cheers.

Eatin’ and drinkin’
To hell with the diet!
Meetin’ and greetin’
It’s been a damn riot.

Chocolate, egg nog,
And other grog.
Latkas and cake,
A holiday makes.

Enjoyed those feasts,
Roasted the beasts!
Pot roasts, turkeys, ham and others,
Please ma’am, I’d like another.

The stomach grew,
The butt expanded.
My pants are now
Elastic waist-banded!

Now let’s make a resolution.
Ditching cakes
Is no solution!

Let’s enjoy the treats we crave,
Yes we can! Just be brave.
The simple trick is compensation,
No more ugly deprivation.

If you indulge,
And don’t want to buldge,
Here’s my advice
To deal with the vice.

A little of this,
A little of that.
Pure enjoyment
Without getting fat.

So I bid you all
A happy New Year!
Warm wishes for health,
And perhaps some wealth.

This poem was originally posted on diet.com

Click to Purchase Abby's book

More blogging on Fit/Fat Times blog

2008-08-24T20:39:00.000-07:00

For original postings, and to view more of the discussion, click here.

To Sharon X; post #115 - Sharon said: "Dr. Abby A. wrote: “BMI discriminates against women, since we are genetically programmed to store more fat in hips breasts and thighs, yet are held to the same BMI standards as men.” This statement is illogical because men almost always carry more lean muscle than women (testosterone vs. estrogen) at the same weight, so the man at 5Åå9Åç
and 180-lbs is automatically going to be leaner than a women at that height and weight. Muscle weighs more than fat."

Great Point, Sharon X! After thinking about it, it seemed that you were right, so I bounced it off a highly credible and influential researcher, Paul Ernsberger, Ph.D. He wrote back to say, " She’s right in so far as, for a given BMI, a woman will have a higher % body fat. This is only important if you believe that % body fat is important, which I do not."

I wrote back and said, "Paul, am I correct in assuming that even though a woman probably has a higher body fat at any given BMI, it's irrelevant because it has nothing to do with fitness, as measured by endurance and/or strength?"

He wrote back and said "yes." So I thank you again for making me think, and for helping us towards a greater understanding of these issues.

Responses To My NY Times Post

2008-08-20T12:42:00.000-07:00

Here is a conversation that is posted on Tara Parker-Pope's NY Times "Well" blog. Click here for original posts:

To: Dr. Abramowitz (#91),
Excellent post.

Continuing the thread from one of Tara’s other columns (Maybe you have already commented upon this), how would you suggest physicians address weight loss issues with obese or mobidly obese individuals who are metabolically unhealthy? Would it be better for doctors to not focus on weight per se, but to discuss life style changes generally known to be associated with improved metabolic health; while offering verbal praise during future visits for any incremental improvements in target biomarkers?

— Posted by W

Here's my response: RE: W - #113 Regarding your question: "Would it be better for doctors to not focus on weight per se, but to discuss life style changes generally known to be associated with improved metabolic health; while offering verbal praise during future visits for any incremental improvements in target biomarkers?" YES, W - This sounds like the perfect answer! The word "weight" should no longer be mentioned, in my opinion, and the ritualistic weighing of the masses should be extinguished for good.

There are many factors for health and longevity that can be suggested, including physical activity (regardless if weight is lost), eliminating transfats, listening to bodily signals of hunger and satiation, and drinking green tea or red wine. (The latter can be easily incorporated as tinctures or capsules; I put a few drops of green tea concentrate in my juice, and take a resveretrol capsule - all the benefits with minimal effort!)

Doctors must educate themselves about how to be fit at any size. They should ask patients questions about lifestyle, instead of assuming that overweight people are sloths. Gathering information about previous weight loss attempts and weight regain might be enlightening, as many overweight have tried numerous weight loss plans, which inevitably plan. It would be nice if doctors offered compassion and understanding for the struggles that fat people have endured when trying to follow damaging diets and discrimination from others. Overall, research has found that dieting leaves people fatter than those who have never dieted!

Here's another response:

108.
August 20th,
2008
11:46 am

Dr. Aronowitz, #91–
Thank you–I always enjoy your postings to this blog. I have a question about set-points, though.

Why is it that for many “yo-yo” dieters, our set-point seems to *rise* with each regain of weight after a substantial weight loss?

I am a 54 year old woman. Over the past nearly 4 decades, I have lost a total of well over 200 pounds and regained more like 280. Each time I’d lose between 40 to 60 pounds on a carefully-followed diet (Weight Watchers, 4 different times, and others as well); and then within 5 years I would have gained it all back PLUS about another 10 to 15 pounds.

The upshot is that I am now about 60 pounds heavier than my “setpoint” was when I was 18. I suspect that repeated weight loss and regain somehow nudges the setpoint ever higher and higher, but I wonder if you have any thoughts on that point. Thanks.
— Posted by me
_

My Response:

RE: #91. Thanks, ME! Regarding your concern, "I suspect that repeated weight loss and regain somehow nudges the setpoint ever higher and higher, but wonder if you have any thoughts on that point." YES! I believe that each time weight is lost and regained, the body's survival mode kicks in by making more "efficient" use of the calories it's given. This means storing more of them as fat, to ensure enough stored energy to use for the next famine. The body can't distinguish between self-imposed semi-starvation (i.e. a "diet") and a nuclear holocaust where food supplies are tainted, and we can't eat until the next harvest. I have watched hundreds of patients diet and regain weight, and believe that it takes a lot fewer calories to regain the lost weight than would be expected.

General knowledge states that a simple formula - calories in vs. calories burned results in a certain weight. However, our genetic blueprints vary tremendously in how our bodies use calories. Did you ever have a skinny friend who can eat all the crap in the world and still stay thin, while others practically gain weight with the smell of baked goods? There are so many factors operating, and we must treat our bodies as a miracle of nature - by taking pretty good care of it and being grateful for letting us experience pleasures on earth.

Fit And Fat?

2008-08-19T23:19:00.000-07:00

This post was originally posted on Tara Parker-Pope's wonderful blog entitled "Better To Be Fat and Fit Than Skinny and Unfit. Click here for original post.

There are thousands of genes responsible for creating our individual "set points." Set point is a range, which can be influenced to some degree by lifestyle. For instance, someone who is supposed to weight around 150, may weight 120 or 180, depending on feeding and activity levels, but it seems impossible that they could ever weight 400 lbs, since the body speeds or slows metabolism to maintain homeostasis. Similarly, someone who is programmed to weigh around 400 lbs might weigh somewhat more or less, but could never weigh 150lbs, without gutting their guts...and even then, it seems highly unlikely.

The Weight Control Registry documents people who have lost significant amounts of weight and kept it off, but we know that they are a minority of the population, since most people regain lost weight. What we don't know is how many people develop an eating disorder in order maintain the loss.

As a psychologist specializing in weight management, I could tell if someone has an eating disorder by the extent to which they are preoccupied with food, exercise, weight and body image. To maintain a severe weight loss, people generally must live in a state of semi-starvation. A primary psychological symptom of starvation is preoccupation with food. This is for survival, much like if you can't get enough water, all you can think about is finding water, or when sleep deprived, the drive to sleep trumps all else. The NY Times once did a video montage of Mike Huckabee's constant references to food on the campaign trail.

Statistically speaking, a normally distributed bell curve dictates that 68% of people are "average," 14% are somewhat more or less, and 3% are extreme. This holds true for things like height, weight and IQ. BMI arbitrarily splits up the average range, by separating "normal" from "overweight" without any statistical integrity. If someone falls into the 70th percentile for height, do we call them "overheight?" Furthermore, BMI is not a measure of fitness; we would do better to routinely consider measures of endurance and strength.

BMI discriminates against women, since we are genetically programmed to store more fat in hips breasts and thighs, yet are held to the same BMI standards as men.

In this time of cultural abundance, the bell curve has shifted slightly to the right, with obese people becoming more obese … since their genes direct their bodies to store fat in times of abundance. This has been the most significant group of gainers. Perhaps this is for survival of the species, since they could live off their fat longer, if there was a famine. This perspective might offer newfound respect for body size diversity.

On average, most Americans have gained approximately 20 pounds in 20 years, which is a pound a year, or 10 calories per day....which is not even measurable. One explanation is our aging population, since some gain is normal. Another explanation is the increased availability of food and health care, which means that we are maximizing genetic potential for height, weight, and even IQ. Nobody talks about the corresponding increase in HEIGHT, which is a fact as much as the increase in weight.

In fact, a very influential cancer study earlier this year found that weight was the #1 correlate for many cancers; alcohol was the 2nd, and the 3rd was height! Media never espoused that taller people had more cancer - perhaps because on the surface, it seems absurd. However, a chart of international ages of deaths revealed that Americans were among the longest living people, while Indians had much shorter life expectancies. Indians also had lower BMI's, so what was happening is that better nourished countries produced people who were taller and heavier, and lived long enough for cancer to develop. Indians never lived long enough for slow growing deadly cancers to develop!

There's plenty of solid research suggesting that fitness is more important than weight, but stigmatizing overweight people offers permission to discriminate. It also fuels the 40 billion dollar diet industry, by making us hate ourselves, and then selling faulty remedies which fuel yo-yo dieting, which may negatively impact cardiac fitness, insulin sensitivity, blood pressure, and self esteem, while making us fatter to protect against the next self-induced famine.

Risk Factors Vs. Heart Attacks and Deaths

2008-08-15T14:45:00.000-07:00

The following post was first featured on a NY Times blog - http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/08/13/for-health-body-size-can-be-misleading/

An important new study found a quarter of thin people, half of overweight, and three quarters of obese people have at least 2 risk factors for cardiovascular health. But let us remember that a risk factor is very different from an “event” such as a heart attack, or death – which is the bottom line.

A huge government study called NHANES found that “overweight” people had 86,094 FEWER deaths than “normal” weight people! “Underweight” people had 33,746 MORE deaths than those in the “normal” range, which remained stable even after eliminating smokers and other confounding variables! " Obesity” (BMI > or =30) was associated with 111,909 excess deaths, primarily due to heart disease, diabetes and certain forms of cancer. Overweight adults (BMI of 25 to 29.9) had no higher risk of dying than those of normal weight and perhaps a lower risk.

Study after study from around the world confirms that the arbitrary label of “overweight” has the lowest mortality rate, i.e. in China, 170,000 adults: Gu and colleagues found lower mortality in the overweight category than in the normal weight. Results in Finland, Germany, and other countires confirm these results.

Furthermore, Aug 5th Reuters- Daily News reported that overweight and obese patients with heart failure seem to have a lower risk of dying than their normal-weight counterparts, according to a review of published studies involving more than 28,000 heart failure patients who were followed for an average of nearly three years. These results are consistent with previous studies.

We know that the vast majority of people who lose weight gain it back, attesting to the strength of our genetic set point. The Nurses' Health Study II provided information on intentional weight losses of 2476 young and middle-aged women and found that weight cycling was associated with greater weight gain, less physical activity, and a higher prevalence of binge eating. Other research has found negative effects on blood pressure, cholesterol and other risk factors.

Living a healthy lifestyle by eliminating transfats, moving one’s body, and listening to bodily cues of hunger and satiety will maximize genetic potential for health – regardless of weight.

Feel free to check out my blogpost on diet.com, which is featured today on their home page: http://www.diet.com/dietblogs/read_blog.php?title=Why+You+Can\'t+Bowl+Over+Those+Last+10+lbs.&blid=11991

Thanks Terri!

2008-06-16T12:45:00.000-07:00

Thank you Terri, for giving me a beautiful new blog, and bringing me into the 21st century. Love, Abby

P.S. If anyone else needs help with web design or other graphics, I highly recommend Terri Negron. Her work is beautiful, innovative and timely, and she is an absolute pleasure to work with. To see more of her work, please check out her website , or my dear friend Kelly Sullivan Walden's - the dream Diva. Terri designed both of these, and they are outstanding!

About Abby

2008-06-14T08:24:00.000-07:00

Hi! Thanks for stopping by.

I’m a psychologist who presently writes a blog for diet.com, entitled, "Where Science Meets Sin". Want to learn how to find your ideal weight and maintain it forever? The launch piece was called "A Daring New Approach to Weight Control".

My work involves a return to nature, re-defining healthy living and fostering self-acceptance. It has been featured on eDiets.com, AOL Diet And Fitness, and WebMD. Formerly a consultant for Weight Watchers, International Inc., I have also spoken for the National Organization for Women (NOW) and Mensa.

Evolution of my philosophy began with the belief that I was overweight for most of my life. After struggling for years being on and off diets and hating my body, I finally read Fat Is A Feminist Issue, and some of Geneen Roth's "non-diet" stuff. It felt very liberating to start listening to my body, and not beating myself up so much.

But as a psychologist trying to help others with this problem, their approach didn't work for everyone. Most had already tried dieting and gained weight back. So I thought long and hard about it, as our culture began struggling more and more with issues of body image, weight, eating disorders, obesity, and yo-yo dieting.

Finally I came up with some answers that integrated the non-diet approach with some structure from the diet camp, and created my book, Your Final Diet, which is a program for life. It's pretty lenient, yet offers some rules to offer control and flexibility. You never go off the diet, since you create your own, by programming in everything you love to eat! It's a wonderful thing.

I also began exploring products in health food stores, and was disgusted to find that 80% tasted like cardboard or Styrofoam! I tasted and spitted so many items until finally stumbling on a few gems that were all natural and actually tasted delicious! Thus was born my list of "healthy junk food" -- an appendix of brand name chips, cookies and other treats at the end of Your Final Diet.

They're so delicious that I just started eating them for meals, instead of between meals! Sometimes I'd rather have a waffle with ice cream or cookies and milk, instead of what we typically think of "real food." Hey, why not? They're all natural, without any garbage, so having them for meals instead of in addition to meals assured that calories were not added above and beyond meal calories. You can actually have your cake and eat it too, on my diet!

As a kid, I became fascinated by hypnosis and the power of the mind. Majoring in psychology unlocked mysteries, and helped me to find a peaceful way of being in the world.

As a psychologist, I found that carefully orchestrated hypnosis vignettes were valuable for helping patients attain insight, understanding, and coping strategies. My "Self Hypnosis Insight Enhancement Series" takes people on a journey through different emotions, helps them identify particular struggles, and empowers them towards corrective action. "Imagine "reprogramming" yourself to function optimally. The Self-Hypnosis Insight Enhancement Series unlocks unconscious images with regard to different aspects of your life, and harnesses hidden coping strategies for a powerful boost in this most suggestible state."

More info can be found at www.YourFinalDiet.com

Also visit: www.selfgrowth.com

Aside from professional passions, I love to dance, laugh, travel, immerse myself in nature, and cuddle with my cats. ☺