With Christmas soon approaching, perhaps you have just purchased a new outfit you'll be wearing for the occasion. Even though you found it to be a bit snug around the middle, the diet which is certain to follow will afford you the opportunity to show off the new you. But, will it produce a healthier you?



Diet fads are as popular as ever, yet we never take the time to truly understand the process of dieting; the risks; the unknown and intangible results. While it's true the brain can be tricked into thinking the body has had enough to eat; all too soon the body will fight back, and the urge to resist will be futile. It isn't enough that one wants to lose weight; it's why one wants to lose weight.

Obesity aside, some people want to shed pounds for all the wrong reasons. Using methods which can hurt, rather than contribute to a healthier body seems to be the norm rather than the exception these days.

The snug outfit you just purchased could easily have been bought in a larger size. Instead, the diet will probably consist of fasting for a few days; or eating one type of fruit for days; or taking pills. These up and down diets are wreaking havoc on your system, yet the choices made can upset not only your emotional well-being, but your physical as well.

It basically boils down to one thing, doesn't it, self-esteem. We hate the way we look so we consume more food; we buy the most expensive pair of jeans because the diet pills will shed the pounds quickly; we diet for a week, then binge during the holidays. This yo-yo effect is a temporary cure in lieu of a long term solution.

Most people say, "As long as I have my health.." Think back to the last crash diet you engaged in. Did you feel healthy? As stated earlier obesity is a pandemic, and those who need help are receiving proper treatment from professionals.

Wanting to lose two pounds to accommodate a new outfit doesn't qualify anyone to seek professional help, nor does it qualify anyone to be in the same category as someone who is obese. Does it sound silly? That's because it is.

Over 127 million people in the US alone have this disease. Yet, someone will go to tremendous lengths; using ridiculous diets; pills; and surgery to alter what they consider to be a major flaw.

Genetically speaking, everyone is built differently. Large boned; small boned; whatever the case may be. That is not the issue, however. The issue confronting us today is more serious; an attempt to alter our bodies to fit a specific image. Some diet programs work; there is no doubt about that. Risking one's health is not worth any diet, no matter what the reason. Resolve to become healthier; the rest will take care of itself.