Having survived a serious accident on the slopes, black-run skier Laura Dion-Jones spent months helplessly watching her weight increase as her shattered leg was mended. She had been a top plus-sized model and designed clothing, so she was aware of size issues - or so she thought. When she became sick and tired of obesity and embarrassed beyond words by the remarks passed by people who only saw her weight, Laura decided to change. She's just sorry that it took until she reached the 317 pound mark for her to discover how to address the issues confronting her.
I greatly admire this author for her attitude in facing up to the challenge and for presenting the lessons she learned, to try to help others. Whatever Laura ate seemed to make her fatter and even the Weight Watchers system didn't help. After trying psychoanalysis and even attempting gastric band surgery, the truth dawned. Finally she tried one more consultant and was told that her pancreas was hyper-sensitive to carbohydrates, even complex ones, and was triggering a release of insulin which prompted her body to store fat. Now she knew what to do, Laura abandoned the American easy diet and set about modifying the Atkins diet to her needs. She is convinced that obesity in many is caused by the pancreas having been saturated with carbs in youth and now over-reacting. The weight began to drop.
Walking was the next step - even in the rain. How hard it could be to motivate herself! Laura struggled on daily until the pounds just started melting off and her walks got longer. Now, she makes time for a five or six mile walk daily, plus some gym or weight exercises to kickstart her metabolism. The list of excuses offered by other overweight people as to why they can't or won't do the same is entertaining to read, but at least one will sound familiar to each of us. Laura now maintains a healthy weight and healthy lifestyle, with enjoyable meals, and she reminds us that giving food to others is not giving love. We can prevent many poor health issues arising as well as feeling more confident, able and attractive.
Further reading for those interested in the subject includes:
Healthy Joints For Life by Richard Diana MD, the only orthopaedic surgeon to have played in the Superbowl.
Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss, a journalist who looks deep inside the 'big food' industry which profits hugely from unhealthy ingredients.
While overweight and obesity has been an American problem for some time, it now occurs in Ireland and the UK, so inspiring books which motivate us to COMMIT TO GET FIT by people who have been there and done that, are recommended by me. Laura Dion-Jones is a radio and TV host and a wellness coach and motivational speaker. Peppering her book with brief quotes from inspirational people, as well as her highly personal experiences, she convinces us that change is possible.