Weight Loss Reality

One of only three TV shows that I watch started another season – The Biggest Loser. I enjoy the show for obvious reasons, but I also have issues because it’s not quite reality for the average person. If you remove someone completely from the environment that contributed to the problem and totally immerse them in a weight loss boot camp, then of course they are going to shed pounds and quickly. When I weighed 300lbs. and radically changed my diet and exercise habits, I lost an average of 4-5 pounds a week for the first month (the first week is mostly water), then 2-3 a week the next month, then 1-2 thereafter. The experts agree that sustainable weight loss is about 1-2lbs. per week until you reach your goal. The only thing that bothers me about the show is when folks get upset because they didn’t have a double-digit loss for the week, and only lost 5lbs! Hey, 5lbs. is 5lbs! And, that’s a lot in a week for the average person. My greatest concern is viewers comparing themselves to the contestants and becoming discouraged versus encouraged, which is what it’s designed to do when taken in perspective. It’s great to see people, especially the morbidly obese, make lifestyle changes and succeed, big time! It reminds me of where I came from. Despite its “reality,” I still love the show.