Exciting news: This month, I have the pleasure of announcing that Applied Health's very own nutritionist/exercise expert, Stephanie Jenkins, is a contributing author to the newly released book entitled "Treadmill Training and Workout Guide" by Alberto Salazar, renowned marathon runner, and Lynn Sherman. Congratulations, Stephanie!

Even with her busy schedule, Stephanie has managed to finish her series on "The Permanent Solution to Weight-loss", with an interesting discussion this month on how psychological factors affect successful weight-loss, and pitfalls to avoid.

Also, we are pleased to have another article by Dr. Conrad Loreto, continuing his discussion on Eastern medical philosophy. I have always found Eastern medical practices fascinating, and Dr. Loreto's explanation is not only informative, but also easy to understand.

We are grateful for the information shared and time spent on these articles.

For your good health. . . .

Tamara

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In my last article, we discussed the difference in how Eastern and Western medicine view symptoms. The Western doctor sees the symptom as the problem, and the medical efforts are directed to relieving or removing the symptom.

The Eastern doctor recognizes the symptom as the body's way of bringing attention to an imbalance as a reminder, or warning sign, of a potential or existing problem.

Eastern philosophy is one of balance, both internally and within our external environment, understanding where we fit into the laws of nature. A headache is the body's way of saying its ecology is out of balance. We describe this as invasions of wind, heat, dampness, cold, and dryness resulting in metaphoric and similar conditions in our body.

To understand this delicate balance further, I will describe an overview of the Law of the Five Elements.

There is an order to the universe and every living thing has a definite pattern to its behavior, right down to its atomic dance. There is also a balance that creates a homeostasis that keeps us from becoming too excessive.

That is to say, when we eat too much, we first get full and if ignored we vomit. If we deprive ourselves of sleep, we are overcome with fatigue and will pass out. If we eat too many sweets, we have a gag response to stop; although many people continually ignore this sign until it is no longer effective.

In the Chinese model, we have five main yin organs. Each belongs to a group that encompasses a link to a paired yang organ, a season, taste, body part, emotion, and an element or climatic condition that affects its personality.

When out of balance, the five yin organs' network display physical and emotional signs. Thus, by noting the patient's signs (symptoms and behavior), we can tell which organ networks are distressed, where there is congestion (blocked chi) or depletion (deficient chi), and what acupuncture points are needed to stimulate the correct pathways (meridians)to restore balance and health.

In my next article, I will discuss the five organ networks, as well as their usual patterns of distress.

For more information, you may contact:
Conrad Loreto, N.D., N.C.C.A.
7350 E. Stetson Dr., #128
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480-945-6698
-or-
15640 N. Pima Rd., #B3
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
480-991-3399

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This is the fifth and final segment of the "Lasting Solution to Weight Loss". Obesity and weight gain have been discussed through the last issues as a physiological condition. In this last segment, I would like to explain how psychological factors greatly contribute to increased weight.

Stress

Stress caused by psychological conflicts can influence hormonal and biochemical changes. Stress hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline increase insulin resistance.

These changes in the biochemistry of the body increase fat storage. This response most likely occurs as a protective mechanism to various perceived threatening situations.

Psychological problems and life conflicts are a form of stress. Stress can raise the setpoint higher. Many people experience sudden unexplained weight gains after various types of increased psychological stress - such as a job transfer or move, divorce, death of a loved one, being terminated from a job, or an episode of depression. In many cases, people truly do not make any change in eating patterns, yet still gain weight.

Emotional problems can lead to overeating. Overeating should only lead to modest weight gain, when done occasionally. Large weight gain usually occurs when alternating overeating with dieting efforts. This fluctuation of eating habits can affect the setpoint, so that it adjusts to a higher level to compensate for episodes of "perceived starvation".

Psychological factors often lend to decreased activity, which raises the setpoint. Conflicts produce energy drain, thus leaving little energy and creating general apathy towards exercise. Mental stress can make life more disorganized, thus making it difficult to prioritize and schedule time for exercise.

Mental "blockers" may interfere with adhering to an effective weight management program. If weight-loss is considered threatening to the subconscious mind, the mind will actually attempt to block weight-loss by encouraging inappropriate eating. The conflict between the subconscious and conscious mind (in regards to weight-loss) increases stress levels, again contributing to obesity.

Low Self-Esteem

Repeated failure to lose weight permanently, and exhaustion from continuous dieting efforts, can cause psychological problems associated with obesity. One of the most common results is decreased or low self-esteem. This is also one of the most debilitating, because it creates a vicious cycle.

Research shows, the more obese people are the lower their self-esteem. Over a lifetime, individuals build numerous "self statements", which reflect comments made by their family and friends.

The accumulation of these "self statements" usually has a definite influence on self-esteem. These statements also may include personal thoughts on negative body image and worthlessness.

Feelings of worthlessness and self-comparison to thinner people often follow overeating episodes. As the perception of the ideal image increasingly differs from reality, the level of worthlessness increases, and self-esteem decreases.

It is not unusual for a healthy, normal-weight young girl to be told she needs to lose five to ten pounds, in order to be on an athletic or cheerleading team. Although, there may be no sound physiological basis for a particular weight goal, these types of comments may result in the girl feeling inadequate and losing self-esteem.

One solution to "never measuring up to one's own personal standard of thinness" is to examine the standard. Rather than assuming a preconceived standard, determine acceptable weight range by considering individual bone structure, height and genetic predisposition. Being healthy, feeling good, and making the best of one's own potential is most important.

Criticism, especially from close friends and relatives, can bring hurt and an overeating response. Using positive self-talk, again, can help counteract negative remarks from others. Concentration on positive attributes, and even consciously disputing untrue remarks can help ease the damage to self-esteem.

Small steps chosen to help accomplish attainable health goals can be far more encouraging and fulfilling. As each small step is taken, self-confidence and determination will increase.

Appropriate "self" rewards, as each goal is realized, encourages the person to continue their weight-loss program, and increases the feeling of self-worth.

Anger

Anger can prove to be very counterproductive in controlling weight. The results of anger can be a desire to overeat, mixed with dramatic fluctuations of blood sugar levels.

When angry, the body produces adrenaline, rapidly accelerating blood sugar levels in preparation for the "fight or flight" response. Adrenaline prevents the production of insulin; yet, once the anger has passed, adrenaline dissipates, insulin production rapidly increases, and the excess blood sugar is converted to increased body fat. Although, eating does not usually occur during episodes of anger, overeating may occur after the anger has been replaced by neutral feelings.

Research has shown a significant correlation between anger and the percent of body fat in those who diet regularly. The more dieting and feeling of deprivation involved (along with the frustration of weight not being lost), the more edgy and easily angered a person may become, thus leading to the adrenaline/blood sugar response described above - fluctuations in blood sugar, increased body fat, and more anger.

Learning to control and express anger in ways that are more constructive can stop this vicious circle. Exercise is one of the best ways to cope with and work through anger. In addition, practicing improved and controlled communication techniques help to stabilize the adrenal/blood sugar response.

Depression

Depression is basically anger that is directed towards oneself. Depression in an overweight person often includes feeling worthless. Food may temporarily ease the depression; so continuous eating often becomes mandatory for day-to-day survival.

Depression can be incapacitating and cause neglect of oneself, family, home and work. Serious depression should never be taken lightly or dismissed. No one should ever feel embarrassed about seeking help. As the depression improves, it will be easier to cope with life, without overusing food.

Exercising is a great release. It will improve energy and reduce depression. Positive self-talk can also be very beneficial. Overcoming depression can start with refusing to think negative, false ideas. We must concentrate on loving and appreciating ourselves.

Involvement with loving and supportive people is crucial. It is also important to be able to receive compliments, or kindnesses, from others. Increased self-esteem, and believing in one's own self-worth can give a purpose for life, improve mental attitude, and allow more control over eating habits.

Guilt

Guilt is a symptom of stress, or a negative feeling resulting from judging oneself. Guilt can occur every time someone makes improper eating choices. A destructive cycle is initiated when the guilt becomes so uncomfortable that relief is sought in overeating.

To avoid guilt associated with overeating, it is important to remember that eating is governed by chemical mechanisms and is necessary for survival and maintaining proper health. Properly nourishing the body and taking care of oneself will diminish the guilt associated with eating.

Boredom

Many people eat simply out of boredom. Food can become a form of entertainment. Boredom is a complex mental or emotional state that often occurs in people above average intelligence.

These people may not be satisfied with the auditory or visual messages normal to everyday life, but need the sensations of different tastes, smells, temperatures and feelings that food can provide. It is not hunger that is leading them to eat excessively, but actually a form of boredom.

Boredom may also be experienced when daily activities are found to be dull. Anticipating the finished results of an activity, rather than focusing on the repetitive steps themselves, may encourage a more positive attitude. By breaking down tasks into smaller units, satisfaction can be found as each unit is accomplished.

Adding variety to daily activities can be helpful, as well. Reducing boredom and varying activities draws focus and attention to other areas, instead of food. Thus eating becomes less of a reaction to boredom.

Loneliness

Loneliness is so unpleasant that people will go to almost any length to avoid it. Many use eating to help escape this feeling. Sometime ago, I read an excellent book called "Feeding the Hungry Heart". This book explained the complex reasons why people will eat to compensate for the lack of love and happiness in their lives.

Unfortunately, though eating may be temporarily uplifting, it can quickly lead to an overeating problem - consequently, guilt.

Feelings of loneliness may also be coupled with depression, which makes it difficult to do anything positive about weight control. When life feels hopeless, it seems pointless to focus on losing weight.

With this outpouring of negative energy stemming from loneliness, low self-esteem, and depression, it becomes more difficult to maintain healthy relationships - again, a vicious circle.

Though overcoming loneliness may be difficult, it is possible. Readjusting mental programming may be the simplest way to start. Many people live very satisfying lives by themselves. Finding hobbies and activities that are enjoyable can be fulfilling.

One of the best cures for loneliness is being aware of another person's needs. When we concentrate on providing help for others, thoughts turn toward them instead of ourselves.

Hobbies, activities, and service to others will help improve self-respect and self-love. As these increase, life and people become more interesting. Attitude and energy improve. Relationships blossom. As loneliness fades, being alone can actually provide a peaceful time of nurturing self-improvement.

In conclusion, psychological problems and their effect on weight-loss is a complex topic. The mind is a powerful tool, and thoughts can either sabotage success or allow achievement of goals and dreams.

Dieting does not work, but instead behavior modification (along with a healthy eating and exercise program) is critical to ensure lasting weight-loss results. Honesty with oneself in evaluating which areas need work will help avoid the repetitive destructive patterns discussed. Once it is determined if eating is used to overcome guilt, depression, loneliness, anger, low self-esteem or boredom, alternative "nurturing" ways of coping can be found.

The lasting solution to weight-loss is a mental and physical process that takes time, desire, effort and patience. Years of dwelling on losing weight, trying every possible quick fix, spending incredible amounts of money and endless hours of belittling oneself is counterproductive to achieving successful weight-loss, and even more importantly - happiness within.

Whatever the exterior shell looks like, being grateful for our bodies and concentrating on our own positive and uniquely individual attributes is imperative. Choosing to take control of personal health and overall well-being must be a "priority", in order to be at our best and truly enjoy life.

To direct your questions to Stephanie, or if you would like to schedule an appointment for a personal consultation, you may contact her via email at:

or via phone at: (623)465-6632.

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