“It’s Under Control” . . . Is It?

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Not surprisingly, I meet many people who have all the various medical issues associated with being overweight and obese: diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, acid reflux, insulin resistance . . . just to name a few. Unfortunately, I find that too many have a very cavalier attitude about it. When I question whether or not they really understand a particular medical issue, how it affects their body, how dangerous it can be long-term, etc., what I hear back from them so often, and usually with a wave of the hand, is “It’s under control” . . . because they’re on prescription drugs.
 

I emphasize to clients that “under control” means “only at that time.” In other words, a doctor will prescribe medications under a specific set of circumstances, to respond to certain symptoms, and after evaluating lab results on a given day. However, as a result of the cumulative effect of being overweight or obese for a sustained period of time— and certainly with more weight gain — circumstances, symptoms and lab results change for the worse . . . and dosages of meds are increased. 

For most people, taking any medications is only a stop-gap. When you’re overweight or obese, being complacent and willing to settle for “it’s under control” is very misguided. It means, in essence, that you’re OK with a pill (or multiple pills per day) being in control of your health; that you’re willing to settle for the ease of that rather than the hard work required to change the conditions requiring them. 

I see clients every day who, as they get closer to a healthier weight, have the number of meds and dosages lowered . . . until eventually, for so many, no meds are necessary at all. Slowly, they become more in control of their bodies and their health.

Mario Andretti, former racing driver, one of the most successful Americans in the history of the sport once said:

“If everything seems under control, you’re not moving fast enough.”

. . . meaning, don’t settle. Work harder (drive faster) to get off them.