Why I choose to stay agnostic on the subject of “programs”
When I first decided to start blogging, I didn’t feel comfortable about taking sides in the debates over low-carb vs. low-fat and countless other debates that rage amongst dieters, nutrition experts, and those that profit from either side. First, I just don’t know enough. Second, I am suspicious of nearly every “study” that comes out, because they’re all funded by someone, somewhere, that has an agenda.
My attitude has been, and will be, do what works for you. But, do it.
Oddly enough, I found a similar mindset in an unlikely place: Star Jones. Star has written a frank essay for Glamour about her weight loss, going public for the first time with the words “gastric-bypass” rather than “medical intervention”. While I’m always suspicious about the sincerity of celebrity mea culpas, I found some great advice:
Gastric bypass is a very serious procedure with its own set of risks. I’ve been afforded the luxury of consulting numerous doctors, specialists and colleagues who concluded that this surgery was the only way I could regain control of my life. It worked for me, but if you face a similar struggle, you’ll have to find what works for you. It isn’t an easy fix, and the recovery doesn’t end when you come out of anesthesia—that’s when the real work begins.
So weird to find myself in agreement with Star Jones, but there you go.
As for the idea that she wanted to “own up” to having gastric-bypass surgery… Why? First, she’s entitled to her privacy with regard to her medical decisions. But, she makes the point that it’s been therapeutic to share with people on an individual basis. Ok, it’s your business whether to share or not share. But there is an element of being embarassed about it:
But the complete truth is, I was scared of what people might think of me. I was afraid to be vulnerable, and ashamed at not being able to get myself under control without this procedure.
Hey, I’m not in the public eye so I can’t pretend to understand the fishbowl she lives in, much of which she takes responsibility for creating. But, making decisions to take the steps necessary to live a long, healthy life is never something of which to be embarrassed.
Here’s the takeaway: Find what works for you. Do it. You don’t owe anyone apologies or excuses.
Tags: diet, programsComments
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