Today I am writing to fight for improved health, strength, and eating skills. I work as a Registered Dietitian at the local YMCA and the most common question I receive is "How can I lose weight?" The number on the scale defines meaning and purpose for many in society today. People love and crave the dramatic and extreme weight loss stories for themselves and their loved ones.
Is there another way? I believe there is. Cultivating new and more long lasting desires than the narrow vision of a magic number on the scale. Recently I returned to the gym after being away for five years having my three beautiful children. My strength and energy had eroded and I was ready to get it back. I'm happy to report that six months after returning I am becoming stronger, have fewer overuse injuries, and am feeling more hopeful about my new role as a mom. The number on the scale has NOT changed. Today I am very thankful that my definition of success does not and never will contain a number.
On a side note - research does show that people who are skilled at eating have stable body weights, fewer risk factors for chronic disease, and improved psychological status. Growing in eating skills takes time. This includes defending a positive and nourishing relationship with food, regularly and reliably feeding yourself good quality tasty food, and listening to our bodies in response to these foundational habits.
Unhappy with your present health condition? Try looking away from the 'problem' and instead focus on the gifts of our local food system, the strengths of local cooking classes, the opportunities of active living, and embracing your family food traditions to guide us along our collective pathway of 'healthy eating.'
Elaine Paetkau
Registered Dietitian
Prince George
