Hello ! Here I am again.
For the first time, I’m posting with so many random thoughts swirling on my mind, so much so that I don’t know where to begin. Most of them are current issues though, and well, you know what happens when I talk about issues of the day…… I get into trouble. You may or may not agree with me, or you may even hate me, and not read me anymore, but , I really do need to speak my mind, and be honest about it.
So, okay, Ren, what is it, talk, and be done with it. Well, uhm, it’s about obesity, Ma’am. The American Medical Association has just declared obesity as a disease. This means obese people can seek treatment for obesity, not just the diseases that are the result of their condition. I expected that obese people would be happy, since now they can go to the doctor, have surgery or whatever treatment is deemed appropriate and necessary, and have the cost be shouldered by the insurance company. Surprisingly, they’re not. Not at all. The National Association of Fat Acceptance does not like the announcement. Its members think their condition is not a disease, and calling it one just fuels discrimination. They just want to be accepted, that’s all. It’s not their fault if their metabolism is low, they say. In my opinion, I think it would be to their advantage if their condition is considered a disease. It won’t fuel discrimination.I don’t think so. On the contrary, it will lessen or, at the very least, solicit sympathy for their condition. It will be seen as something “that cannot be helped”, and not the result of over-indulgence and over-consumption of food.
To be honest, I don’t know where I am on this issue. I’m not a doctor. And yes, they’re right about metabolism. I have low metabolism too. To me, eating is always like the battle of the bulge. I have to fight my urge to cut a big slice of cheesecake, and finish off one big package of M & Ms and chips. I have to watch my calorie intake, and everytime I overindulge, I get on the treadmill. It does take determination, discipline and will power to keep fit, I know that. But, these are what we need to live a full life……in fact, in all aspects of a normal life. At least one of these should come naturally to us. And here lies my problem with this issue. We do know that all that body mass does not come from nowhere, right? It comes from the food we ingest, and that means, either we eat too much, and we don’t exercise. If we don’t have time to exercise, then don’t eat too much. That’s all there is to it. It’s not rocket science.
By the way, I’m not talking about the ” regular” chubby people. In fact, some of them are more beautiful with the extra flesh. I call them well-endowed, and cuddly, and I can understand why some men prefer them. I myself don’t like to see women so thin their ribs stick out of their chests, looking like skeletons. Now, what I’m talking about are the morbidly obese. I went with my Mother to WalMart this morning, and that’s where I saw obese people. Lots of them. I’m not concerned about how they look, but rather, about their health. They can barely walk. And what did I see in their carts ? Ice cream, chips, cakes, boxes of pizza, gallons of sweet juices, lots of baked products. I didn’t see any vegetables and fruits. All that fat is poison. All foods, in fact, are poison, if eaten in excess, and that includes plain water. That is Toxicology 101.
So, what foods do we see in the photo ? 1. 4 boxes of family size pizza ( one for each, obviously) 2. 2 boxes of greasy fried chicken, and biscuits that come with the chicken, 3. 2 hamburgers ( I assume 2 had already been eaten) 4. donuts 5. cupcakes 6. there are 2 more that I can’t recognize
Ladies, what the fudge are you doing ? As I said, all that mass do not come from nowhere. These women are the living proof of the Law of Conservation of Mass , a basic principle in Chemistry. In AstroPhysics, their stomachs can be compared to a black hole.
To be honest, I don’t feel like posting this. I’ll be accused of being blunt and harsh, unmindful of people’s feelings. But there are some things that need to be said. We cannot always coddle people for fear of ruining their self-esteem and self-worth. It’s not how you look outside, ladies, it’s who you are inside. Continue eating. Why can’t we talk about a few hometruths? Sometimes we have to call a spade a spade. Like so…..Ladies, that’s gross and you’re killing yourselves. Also, you do know about the seven deadly sins, right? Yes, gluttony is one of them. And you’re committing it.
So, okay, maybe I’m wrong. Maybe it really is in the genes, and they can’t help it. And worse, maybe I’m just being evil, and mean and cruel. And if I am indeed wrong, I’d like to ask for forgiveness on bended knees.
This is all for now. Please don’t hate. ( Although I think I deserve it if I would be hated )
Paris is next on my European travelogue.
Will post this now. * closing eyes, clicks Publish. *
Wait !!!! I’ll wimp out and delete this if I get cursed, hated, and verbally abused .
.
Am a Molecular Microbiology student, love to read books, and I play the violin. 
dreamsending
renxkyoko
renxkyoko's space 
Posted by Clanmother on June 23, 2013 at 5:21 pm
This is a very complex conversation – but one that needs to be debated. It is difficult for those who have never been overweight to understand the complications of obesity. The statistics are staggering so we need to look at the root causes. I just read that 31% of Canadian children are overweight. I am glad that you have joined the dialogue.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 23, 2013 at 5:39 pm
Thank you, Clanmother.
I do need to know more about the complexity of obesity. I have to admit that my ideas are very simplistic. At the moment, that’s how I see the problem.
Posted by Mohamed on June 23, 2013 at 5:31 pm
I don’t think I read something hateful in this post. You’re addressing those who know they’re hurting themselves by gluttony and continue to do it. I pray for everyone suffering from extreme obesity to be in a better health asap.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 23, 2013 at 5:51 pm
Thank you, Mohammed . I really hope this won’t be read as hateful . I’m actually angry how they can knowingly do these to themselves. It’s almost suicidal.
Posted by lyndzeerae27 on June 23, 2013 at 6:39 pm
When I clicked the ‘like’ button on this post, I meant it! I completely agree with you, and although, I’m sure there are deeper complexities when it comes to obesity, I truly believe the idea that, ‘eating healthy and moving more’ will ultimately lead to a healthier future. It has been done many a time, when an obese individual has decided to make a change for the better and they do!
I also think a lot of the problem is environmental. When a child learns certain eating habits early in life it is difficult to break those habits in adulthood. But again, I suppose it just comes down to how much one values their health.
In my very humble opinion, you are right on the money with this post, great job!
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 12:58 pm
Thank you, lyndzeerae27. I’m really wary of this topic. It’s a very sensitive one, and I admit , very personal.
You’re right about early eating habits. I can totally relate. My own mother indulged my older sister when she was a kid. She was very chubby during her elementary school days, and it was only when she heard other kids talk about her being a ” fatso” that she finally realized it was her fault. She began her diet regimen , like measured rice, fruits only , plenty of veggies and less meat, no soda, etc. By the time she entered high school, she was a gorgeous, slim, high schooler. ( and I’m not kidding about that… boys started flocking to our house )
Posted by Andreas Moser on June 23, 2013 at 6:49 pm
I prefer well-endowed indeed.
But I decided that I would have to lose some weight myself after this traumatic experience: http://andreasmoser.wordpress.com/2013/03/19/i-need-to-lose-weight/
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 1:06 pm
Ha ha Good for you.
Cheers, Andreasmoser !
Posted by Arindam Saha on June 23, 2013 at 7:08 pm
*looking down at my belly – oh well its shrinking – good*. I completely agree. It may not be their fault that they are obese; however knowing the fact, a degree of self control is certainly required.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 1:10 pm
Beer belly, maybe ? Guys tend to be slimmer because they move a lot.
It maybe genes, or medical issues, but body mass really comes from the food we eat, and I’ve never heard of a doctor telling a patient to eat so much that the patient will get fat. Never.
Posted by apollo on June 23, 2013 at 7:11 pm
I agree with you. if you don’t wanna get fat, exercise or don’t eat too much. simple as that.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 1:13 pm
I believe that, too, apollo. That fat does not come from nowhere…. it’s impossible. It’s from the food that ingest. If we cannot metabolize it, then we have to diet and eat less.
Posted by Fae's Twist & Tango on June 23, 2013 at 7:14 pm
Oh Sweet Ren, It is a difficult subject. I come from an almost-everyone-with-weight-problem family. None like what you see in the photo, but weight control is very difficult. I have been fighting it all my life and been hungry most of my life. What kind of a life is that to be hungry all the time. I used to dance 4 hours a day and still had to remain hungry. Now that I don’t dance and do minimal exercise, I eat only when I travel (twice a year) and go back to hunger for the remainder of the year. At some point, especially in middle-age, people give-up to enjoy the delicious part of life too. It definitely is a metabolism problem. But some are born with more advantageous genes.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 1:26 pm
Miss fae, it’s not only difficult. It is also an extremely sensitive subject. I also can relate to being hungry . But that only happens when I overindulge. That’s why my family avoid ” eat all you can” restaurants. I also have metabolism problem. I have not really conquered the urge to over-eat, and when I succumb to temptation, I exercise. It doesn’t mean we will never be able to eat really delicious food…. we can , just don’t eat too much of it….. a little of takayoki, maybe 2 pieces of sushi, a small wedge of cantaloupe, fresh salad. ( and I always use a small plate , and eat slowly. ) Aaargh, I know, it s*cks.
Posted by simpleek on June 23, 2013 at 10:18 pm
Like anything, there has to be a level of moderation. My mom always tells me this. If you indulge in too much of anything, including food, yeah it won’t be good for you in the long run. Obesity is a problem and people need to consider their health above everything else. Otherwise, they will die an early death because of heart attack, stroke, etc.
I’m not blessed with super great metabolism. I like to eat and enjoy, but I know if I overdo it I will in fact get fat or chubby. This is why I always have to try and exercise, or lessen my intake of food during the week if I overeat during the weekend. As you said, it comes down to self-control and also eating healthier.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 1:37 pm
Self-control is the key word, Simpleek, you’re so right. It’s all about personal responsibilty.
Posted by ~REBECCA DAWN~ on June 24, 2013 at 12:28 am
heh heh a lot better post then mine dear ren!!
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 1:40 pm
Oh, right. You did write about this too. He he he. Mine is longer because I care so much this subject. Girl, I’m suffering. I want cheesecake, rocky road, blah, blah. Did I write I work at an ice cream parlor, Baskin and Robbins? * cries*
Posted by ~REBECCA DAWN~ on June 26, 2013 at 2:26 am
yes you did. oh please you work with ice cream. you know what I work with!
its sad. got to start eating salads and veggies…lol
I can have ice cream only once and awhile, I cant digest diary, but the amount of cheese I eat..well. you would think I learn!!! nope!
Posted by LAND OF FUN on June 24, 2013 at 3:57 am
Fine Post 🙂
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 1:42 pm
Thanks, land of Fun. * It wasn’t fun to write about this, I tell you. I just hope I don’t hurt people’s feelings.
Posted by Mooselicker on June 24, 2013 at 4:00 am
I think the problem is when people are told they have a “disease” they feel like something is wrong with them. Is there something wrong with being obese? Well, in a way there is because it can be harmful to your health. Alcoholism is a disease and I think it’s very similar to obesity. It seems like it can be prevented, but sometimes it can’t and a lot of the time the people won’t do it for themselves. I would never consider obesity a disease just because of what the word disease means to me. Nobody’s body except in maybe very rare cases is designed to be 300 pounds or more. You have to work pretty hard to keep your weight that high.
You shouldn’t have been weary about posting this. It was very nice and well-thought out.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 2:09 pm
That’s what members of Fat Acceptance are saying. They don’t want to be labeled as a walking disease. They just want to be accepted . I agree with them. if they’re comfortable and happy with their weight and they ‘re healthy, then there’s no problem. I guess the doctors are referring to the morbidly obese, where surgery is the only option. ( Chris Christie had stomach surgery, and I notice he’s starting to look a bit slimmer now. )
I saw an obese couple at an eat all you can resto. When we came in, they were already there eating, and all the time we were there, they got up 4x to get more, and just before we left, they went back again to get more food. ( Their plates were always full of food)
Posted by JoJo Kelmer on June 24, 2013 at 5:28 am
made a lot of sense Ren, good job!
i feel sorry for the girls in the picture, they need help…
I just wish that they start thinking about their health…i know yummy foods can make one happy but that’s only for like what…the moment you started eating yummy and probably a few minutes after…but being healthy can make one happy for the rest of their life…
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 2:22 pm
That’s true. Eating so much is a fleeting happiness. The result of this momentary happiness is devastating and debilitating, and therefore not worth it. That body mass is what people put in their stomach… if there’s a medical condition, like very low metabolism, or bloating, the doctors will NEVER , EVER , tell a patient to eat a lot. On the contrary, they will give the patent a diet regimen to keep the patient from getting fat….. getting fat will cause more problems.
Posted by JoJo Kelmer on June 25, 2013 at 9:19 pm
so true…
Posted by countingducks on June 24, 2013 at 7:06 am
One of the endearing things about you is that you have strong opinions which you are nervous about posting, but non of your opinions is informed by a meanness of spirit or anything cheap. You are a genuinely nice and good hearted person who deserves to have her opinions respected. I am one of those who has fought the battle of the bulge since my teens. I have never lost or won. I am nothing like the people in the photograph, but If I just said to hell wit it, I am sure I could be
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 3:06 pm
Thank you for the kind words , countingducks. I know it’s a sensitive subject, and I know I’m not their keeper. I also feel I have no right to judge them. But , I have a right to state my opinion, and that’s my opinion.
I’m the same as you. I struggle to keep my weight down. I love to eat food. ( I even want to make a food blog ) But I know how it can be devastating and debilitating to ” let go” and succumb to temptation. … the cheesecake, the double cholcolate cake, that Toblerone. Oh, my. I do eat all of that, but just a small amount each day, like a very thin slice of cake once a day, just to satisfy my taste buds. I notice I don’t gain weight, and I’m satisfied. And I move a lot. that’s important. I’m not sedentary, thank goodness.
Cheers, countingducks ! Be well.
Posted by outforalonglunch on June 24, 2013 at 7:35 am
Good one, Ren. A whole can of worms – open to debate… I believe the choice of foods and amount of what the obese put into their mouth to ingest has more to do with obesity than their genes. Eat everything in moderation, even fats are good for health. Do some exercise. If all else fails, check the thyroid levels and insulins! x
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 3:22 pm
If we know it’s in our genes, the more we should be more careful how we eat. There is no doubt all the body weight comes from the food we eat…..it doesn’t come from nothing. No doctor will suggest that we eat more if there’s a medical condition. they know it will cause more problems. patients are always given a diet regimen. What to eat, how much to eat…. so I don’t believe that medical issues make people fat. maybe they will BLOAT, and look fat, or retain water, and it can’t be helped. In other words, we cannot blame medical issues. But then, I’m not a doctor, so I don’t know.
Posted by Lee Devine on June 24, 2013 at 11:16 am
Ren, although this is a difficult subject. You handled it with grace and poise. I am going through that right now. I allowed myself to overindulge and am now paying the price. It is a difficult and arduous road to travel.You are right though it is all about choices. Ones that most people don’t want to make.Your picture says it all. If all of the food was healthy or wiser choices then it wouldn’t look so bad.
One other point I would like to add though is that our large corporations are finding ways to make us want to eat more. It is the magical combination of sugar/fat/salt that triggers the pleasure center of our brain. Some of the blame lays on that fact, the rest lies with the individual that consumes the food.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 3:38 pm
Here’s another problem, too , Lee devine. The fat/oil triggers our taste sensation. The fat ALWAYS makes the food taste so delicious. So I can understand why we lose control. But we really need self-control, or else we suffer in the future. Really suffer.
Thank you, Lee Devine for understanding that this is a difficult subject. Be well !
Posted by Jordan Q. Hicks on June 24, 2013 at 11:24 am
You’re not eating as healthfully as you think.We know that Americans and others who eat a Western-style diet have a lot of health problems—and weight problems. The vast majority of people are overweight these days. Yet research shows that the vast majority of people also think they eat healthfully and consider eating healthy a priority. Are you as confused about that as I am? Clearly, we are not eating that well if we continue to see steady increases in heart disease, type 2 diabetes, overweight and obesity. Here’s the thing: We all think we eat pretty well. Even people who eat a pretty bad diet don’t think it’s that bad. No one really wants to admit that their diet might be pretty unhealthy. We all think we’re probably doing better than others. This is especially true if you compare your diet to what you see your friends, family or co-workers eat and consider your choices to be “better.” Whether that’s actually true or not, the truth is that the vast majority of people could (and probably should) improve their diets immensely.
Posted by kybedard on June 24, 2013 at 2:38 pm
Great ….the US just declared obesity a disease. ( not a condition or disorder) Close to 80 million adults are classified as obese, and 12 million children. Clearly it is a product of lifestyle …right? while a smaller portion of people really cannot take control because of legitimate medical/genetic conditions.
But now the obese, lazy American majority will now be able to utilize their health insurance to get healthier, effective results…w/ out doing anything…or not much at all.
Is this a dietary/people issue? A ignorance/apathy issue? Or a Greed Issue? A way to focus too much toward expensive drug and surgical treatments and shy away from measures to encourage healthy diets and regular exercise.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 3:52 pm
It can be all of the above except ignorance. This is really a sensitive issue. It’s all about personal responsibilty. aaargh . * raising hands in defeat *
Posted by Sam Leung on June 24, 2013 at 9:12 pm
Great post and very interesting discussion! I think this is an important conversation to have. I don’t live in the US, but the UK has a huge obesity problem too and I definitely pretty much agree with you. Other than diseases that cause weight gain as a side effect, where it really cannot be helped, most of the time it’s probably going to come down to an exercise/food intake problem like you said. Of course I’m not a medical professional, but I think it’s a fairly obvious point that people often seem to overlook. I think it’s great that people will be able to get more help with their obesity problems, but I wonder if it’s going to lead to a shift in responsibility and focus on medicine/surgery, when really what people need is to really start leading healthier lives…,
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 4:02 pm
regarding the weight gain as a side effect….. I have a problem with that, Sam. People bloat, or retain water as side effects and it can’t be helped. A doctor will issue a diet regimen. Doctors will never prescribe eating too much as part of the cure.
Posted by Sam Leung on June 25, 2013 at 5:23 pm
I think you may have misunderstood what I meant…? What I meant was what you just said, that unfortunately sometimes people gain weight as a side effect e.g. through water retention rather than just eating too much, but doctors will of course still prescribe a diet regime. Clearly no doctor would prescribe over-eating as part of a cure. I’m not entirely sure what you thought I meant…
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 5:53 pm
Ooooh, wait, hahaha…. the meanings got entangled. I understood what you meant. I didn’t say it clearly, though. I just think that people don’t gain weight as a side effect, unless water is retained or cells bloat, and hence, they will actually look as if they have gained weight. Technically, they will have gained weight because the water is not expelled and is retained in the body. I’m sure the doctor will prescribe some other medicine to keep the balance in the system, or maybe prescribe a diuretic. Aaargh ! ! Yeah, it’s a bit confusing. Sorry for that.
Posted by Sam Leung on June 25, 2013 at 6:07 pm
Haha oh I see! I see where things got confused. Yeah, I get what you mean and you’re probably right! I’ve never really looked into this area and don’t have a scientific background. And no worries, I’m sure I contributed to the confusion!
😛
Posted by Jessica on June 24, 2013 at 10:57 pm
An important topic, and I agree: it’s not rocket science. Certainly genetics *does* play a role, but it’s not coincidence that America has a higher incidence of obesity than any other country in the world. That picture you posted is telling… I can’t believe the number of people who get like that. It’s true—once you’re that overweight it’s hard to lose it. It’s hard if not impossible to even walk! But anyone with a little bit of motivation and sense of personal responsibility ought to recognize that they can make changes for themselves, and they’ll feel a lot better, too!… To me it’s really sad that this is even an issue in our world today when, in other countries, children are starving to death. Our bodies were made for MOVING!!! That’s why we have muscles and skeletons, and we need proper nutrition in order to do that… What most people need is a big dose of perspective, honestly.
Great post, and a brave one to touch on! I myself haven’t gone there yet!
Posted by Jessica on June 24, 2013 at 10:59 pm
…certainly genetics *DO* play a role… (not “does”) Oops!
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 4:24 pm
It we know it’s in our genes, shouldn’t we be more careful that we don’t eat too much. That body weight ” does* not come from nothing. It’s scientifically impossible. That’s my point that I want to emphasize again and again. If there are medical issues, a doctor will never, ever , prescribe eating too much food . He will in fact issue a diet regimen. Some people retain water, some bloat, and that cannot be helped, but if the medical issue is not being able to metabolize certain foods, the doctor will prescribe a specific diet .
Posted by Green Embers on June 25, 2013 at 2:59 am
Hmm… as a person who is obese… I approve of this post! 😀
To be honest… I am not sure I would classify obesity as a disease… more of a symptom of a problem. I think the biggest thing is knowing it won’t be a quick fix. It will take time and hard work and people have to know that it is worth it. Good health is worth it.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 4:36 pm
Oh, my goodness, Green Embers, thank you . I really didn’t know how I could make this post less painful to read for people with weight issues. I know it’s very simplistic, but as I said, the body mass did not come out from nothing. It’s scientifically impossible. A doctor will always prescribe a diet regimen, so medical issues should not be made an excuse.
Thank you for your pleasant disposition. Be well, and keep it up. It’s really difficult to keep the weight down, huh. Be determined to achieve your goal, Green Embers ! * whisper* i keep busy to forget my hunger, and use a small plate for that psychological effect of not being deprived. It works, I tell you.
Posted by Green Embers on June 25, 2013 at 11:18 pm
Yeah the plate trick is something I have been doing… I think it kind of works… lol. Oh I am determined, yes I am, lol.
Posted by doon po sa amin on June 25, 2013 at 7:57 am
ha-hi lang muna, Ren… 🙂 salamat sa pagdaan sa may amin. saka na muna me magko-comment. we have several obese members in the family, hehe. 😉
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 4:39 pm
Ate, kahit vacation ko ngayon, lalo yata ako nawalan ng time. I’m happy I’m working full time at my two jobs…. pero, I don’t have much time anymore. I have 12,000 emails now. * cries *
Posted by limseemin on June 25, 2013 at 8:11 am
Hey, I have nominate you for an award. Pls choose 1. Here the info:
https://limseemin.wordpress.com/2013/06/25/wow-i-got-8-in-1-day/
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 4:42 pm
Thank you, limseemin ! !
I’m going to gather all the awards I’ve gotten, and acknowledge them later. i want to finish my Euro tour first
Cheers, limssemin..
Posted by DokLita on June 25, 2013 at 10:45 am
Know what, I think I have something opposite to obesity. I find it hard to get some fat on my thighs and everything. I have extremely fast metabolism. I myself can’t even believe it. Friends call me lucky, but I don’t consider this as a blessing. Some clothes don’t suit me, I find it hard to pick clothes that actually look good on me. hehe. If there was a Fat Market, obese people will be rich while I visit that market everyday.
-___- but in my opinion, all that matters is self control. You’re right about not being mindful of the body’s figure. Prioritize health. But it’s just that junk food is the best haha! I am fat by soul.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 4:47 pm
Doklita, you cannot imagine how lucky you are to have a fast metabolism. Junk food is soooooo delicious. I want to eat a double pounder hamburger, I want a big slice of cheesecake and double chocalte cake, I want M&Ms ! Instead, I munch on Japanese seaweeds ! ! ! Not fair ! !
Posted by DokLita on June 26, 2013 at 5:38 am
I eat all of those, with no care whether my stomach’s about to burst. But zero fat gained. Later I’ll be eating on a cafe with unlimited desserts, hoping to gain weight. Life really IS unfair!
Posted by 25pesocupnoodles on June 25, 2013 at 11:15 am
gusto ko ang mga linyang ito Renx, “By the way, I’m not talking about the ” regular” chubby people. In fact, some of them are more beautiful with the extra flesh.”,
I totally agree with this, hehehe. 😛 kamusta ka naman?
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 4:53 pm
I have a friend who dieted. She’s now very slim…. but for some reason, it doesn’t fit her. She’s cuter with more flesh. Her neck is wrinkled, and I don’t know, she’s not cute anymore. She looks deprived.
Posted by Gingergirl on June 28, 2013 at 12:23 am
Hi! I wanted to be so skinny in high school and when I look at pics from my past; OMG, I looked like I had two months to live! I have learned since that I need to have some meat on my bones….as long as it’s not a deli:)
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 10:36 am
I’ve never looked skinny. I don’t know if it’s a good thing or not. Not, I guess. I have very low metabolism, so I can understand how hard it is not to gain weight. You can just imagine what I go through to control my eating habits. I love eating. But I know I cannot let go. It’s not about my physical appearance.. it’s about my health. My family has a history of hypertension.
Posted by Gingergirl on June 28, 2013 at 3:09 pm
I am from the South, and with the food that is prepared in my hometown, it’s hard trying to eat correctly. My family members have died extremely because of it.
I love eating also; however, I pay attention to my eating patterns now. I put on a lot of un-wanted pounds when I’m emotional about something. I love cookies and cakes, but during those times, I only buy fruit.
You don’t have to let it go…just pay attention to how you are feeling when you are over-eating. Trust me, it helps.
You are a rare package that this world need more of. Beautiful on the inside; as well as, the outside, and these type of packages come in all different shapes, colors, and sizes.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 4:06 pm
Oh. These are really kind words.
I know it’s about health and all that. But we are women…. first and foremost in our agenda is , we need to look good, too. That’s a VERY, VERY good reason to not over-eat. I know it’s a shallow reason, but that’s reality, right? My older sister was a chubby kid. My mother doted on her, gave her chocolates, cakes, etc. Then one day, she heard a boy call my sister fatso. OMG. My Mom had an epiphany, but for the wrong reason. It wasn’t for her health, but for my sis’ looks. LOL After that, she put her on controlled and measured diet. measured, as in , 1/4 cup rice, no more soda, choco, etc., lots of veggie, less meat, fruits to relieve her hunger. My sister was okay with it coz she got hurt that the little boy she liked called her a fatso. (~_~)
Posted by StetotheJ on June 25, 2013 at 6:34 pm
What I like about you Ren is your uncompomising way of saying what you think, I do think a proportion of overweight people do blame it on low metabolism and such when they just need to exercise and some really do suffer. Some people will never be satisfied with how they are viewed and not take any help…in that respect they should just have their cake and eat it….so to speak.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 25, 2013 at 8:20 pm
Uncompromising….. aaaargh. Is that a good thing or what. I’m not really this straightforward in person. And, I don’t really know the complexities of the human body . But whatever it is, I only know one thing. People don’t acquire that extra flesh from nothing. We don’t get it just by smelling the food, we have to ingest it. What goes on inside the body is a simple biochemical reaction, with products that the body stores, or uses up. It all boils down to self-control, StetotheJ. If they don’t have that, well, you’re right…. they should just have their cake and eat it… it’s their own-lookout…. they’re lucky there’s now Obamacare, where people with pre-existing conditions cannot be denied insurance. Before this health care reform, there’s no insurance company that will accept them. One look at them, and Bam ! denied ! In that photo, one of the women is only 19 years old. The other is 24. I can say with 100 % certainty, no employer will hire them, that is, if they are not working now and want to work. That’s hard reality.
Posted by StetotheJ on June 26, 2013 at 9:01 pm
Uncompromising is good, to many people are to afraid to share there honest feelings on a subject, you do it and cause debate and that is only a good thing. Whether people agree or not it stimulates points of view and that can only be a good thing.
I wonder how many want to work when the state probably pays for them to live. If it does that is, I am unfamiliar with American ways at the moment, I am attempting to learn though. It’s scary how young these ladies are as well. It says an awful lot about society and upbringing…
Posted by ♡ The Tale Of My Heart ♡ on June 25, 2013 at 11:33 pm
great post dear.. 🙂
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 3:46 pm
Thanks, Tale Of My Heart ! !
Posted by NosyAss.com on June 26, 2013 at 12:15 am
Hey, great post. I own the domain name wwww.overweightepidemic.com, topfittrainers.com and so on. I think the whole world is getting so disgustingly fat it’s truly a super sad disease. I feel left out because I am very fit and handsome. My pickings are getting slimmer to find a fit slim woman. haha. I see fat and happy people all the time. The part, i just can’t wrap my head around is. Why people don’t care? When the evidence of just exercising a minimum of 30 mins a day is a chore. I go to the gym. People are on their fawking phones. Phones should not be allowed in health and fitness centers. No miracle applications are going to fit you up. People are afraid to tell other people they are fat. It’s a major health RISK. I’m studying my NASM certification right now too.
My father was in the 1972 Olympics in figure skating. My mom has been coaching skating for 50 years. My moms identical twin sister Mary Scotvold is the coach of Nancy Kerrigan and Paul Wylie and many others. My parents jobs were to critic and tell the students if they were a little to heavy. No problem and they produced Olympians. I was also one of the best Gymnasts in the country. Let me keep bragging,, haha. What a snot huh
I am so lucky and blessed with the genetics I have. However, I also have the ability to help others out there like never before. I am very busy building websites, working full time, studying etc and still go to the gym. When the whole world is blowing up. All of suddden it’s accepted in society and it’s a new norm. Personal Trainers are clearly out of shape. I have love for every human being on the planet. I want the best for everyone. Fat will not give you more time to spend on your mobile device or Facebook. You can check out my MySpace so you can see what I look like if it’s visible.. https://myspace.com/mattmilitano
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 12:16 pm
I couldn’t go to myspace. I was asked to register.
Oh, you were a gymnast ? Or, are a gymnast ? Wow ! That’s cool. So, did you get to participate in the Olympics?
So how’s Nancy Kerrigan? Has she retired ?
Posted by NosyAss.com on July 1, 2013 at 1:09 am
Really?? Have you ever been a member of Myspace? I usually have my preferences set to private. That could be why. I am 32. So Myspace was the first Social Network I hopped on board with. I moved out to Cali at 18 by myself. So through Myspace I discovered amazing music, artists and tons of of friends. Myspace was literally life changing for me.
🙂 To answer your questions. I am no longer doing Gymnastics. I quit at around 17. I made it to Junior Olympic trials twice. I was smart enough to realize at the time. Gymnastics did not have a bright future compared to other well publicized sports. They started cutting programs in high school and colleges. How sad it that for such amazing sports? I had better chances of getting a full scholarship as a guys cheerleader for an NCAA school, wrestling or diving,hahah. Gymnastics indeed was so instrumental in shaping my life mentally and physically. I have no regrets. I can still do back flips, handstands, and all kinds of shit,, lol.
Nancy has been retired for many years. Nancy married her agent and now has 3 children and one she named after me. 🙂 My dad wrote the music and choreographed her programs she skated to in the Olympics. So believe it or not. Nancy would stay at our house for the summers while working with my dad. While ironically my aunt and uncle are her coaches.
I have had quite the life. You can YouTube Or Google my dad. Mark Militano. Watch him skate. He used to skate with his sister. Where my dad skated Vera Wang skated so eventually she made the dresses for the skaters. My father went to the same professional school with Rosie O’Donnell, knew liza Minnelli, etc.. My father knew lots of celebrities. My dad was taught by Joseph Pilates. As you know became huge. Practiced ballet. He is the oldest of 7 children from Long Island, NY. I can’t say enough about him. Quite an extraordinary man.
Posted by Haseeb on June 26, 2013 at 8:20 am
My family, most of it, is obese. And it scares me. I appreciate you took your time out to write about such an important issue people seem to ignore.
I think I might be anorexic because obesity scares me a lot! But i eat healthy, that I know 😀
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 12:18 pm
If you eat healthy, then you’re not anorexic….. on the other hand, anorexics think they eat….. Oh, oh.
Posted by Haseeb on June 28, 2013 at 12:23 pm
I know 😉
Posted by The Hook on June 26, 2013 at 10:36 am
I could NEVER hate you.
In fact, I respect your opinion.
Great post.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 12:20 pm
Thanks, Mr. Hook .
And be well. both you and the missus ! !
Posted by Mechanics Wife on June 26, 2013 at 5:03 pm
Loved your post! I have always had issues with my weight, and to me, (and this is my opinion!:-)With me, I can control my weight. It just depends on how lazy I feel at the time, you know? I heard on the news that America is one of the fattest countries! And people are blaming fast food, and everything else! But to me, even with all the fast food out there, people do have a choice. Why is choosing not to eat fast food such a hard choice? Yes we love fast food, and it’s okay to eat every now and again, I suppose? But, you cannot live off of fast food alone. I’m not grossly overweight, but I believe I have the choice of being overweight or not, you know? One cannot blame society on everything!
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 12:30 pm
I have weight issues too, but I’ve learned self-control. And you’re right, we have a choice, and yes, it’s all about personal responsibility. Eat in moderation, and savor each teaspoon of food, not swallow it without enjoying the taste. I eat chips too, but you know what, I make tiny bites of one piece, and it works. I don’t feel deprived.
Posted by Muhammed Muhsin Varikkodan on June 27, 2013 at 2:47 am
I really like this post, i hope most of the obese people have diabetic and cardiovascular problems.Evidence from several studies indicates that obesity and weight gain are associated with an increased diabetes risks. Each year, an estimated 300000 US adults die of cause related to obesity. Your post is so interesting…
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 12:33 pm
Momentary happiness of uncontrolled eating = lifetime of suffering. It’s not worth it.
Posted by thebestdressup on June 27, 2013 at 5:34 am
ciao! wonderful post. we must respect our bodies.
thebestdressup
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 12:35 pm
That’s true. Also, we won’t be able to wear those beautiful dresses anymore.
Posted by Daisy@Nevertoosweet on June 27, 2013 at 5:43 am
Great post and you’ve definitely touched on a very sensitive topic. To me I sympathize those who are overweight or not ‘stick thin’ even though they exercise and eat well… we just need to accept people come in different sizes. But I don’t understand those people who are normal size but then they eat so unhealthily and then become obese and try to blame the fastfood chains or that it’s genes! That’s ridiculous! We’re all adults and we should all have self control 🙂
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 12:45 pm
That’s what I’ve been trying to emphasize here, Daisy@. That body mass comes from the food that we put into our mouths. If it’s from our genes, the more we should be careful how we eat, and not make that as an excuse. It’s so simple. We just make it so complicated to rationalize our weight issues.
Posted by GourmetGetaways (@GourmetGetaway) on June 27, 2013 at 10:06 am
What a difficult topic and you have handled it very well.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 12:50 pm
Thank you. I really hope so. It’s a sensitive issue, and sometimes, no matter how we handle it well, it will come out as judgemental. But with diabetes and other medical issues that go with obesity, I feel we have to be straighforward, and call it for what it is.
Posted by sami116 on June 27, 2013 at 10:12 am
I probably feel the same about the topic at hand but I can’t help but feel that the argument could easily be swayed if we considered each case individually and thus rendering this topic volatile to generalize. Great post, either ways.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 1:00 pm
each overweight individual will give their own reasons … psychological, genes, low metabolism, etc…,. but at the end of the day, there’s only one valid reason…. they ate too much.
Posted by koshersamurai on June 27, 2013 at 2:15 pm
GoodNESS! Having said that… well done, ren! Your points of view are always appreciated, certainly by me! 🙂
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 1:04 pm
I hope it didn’t come out as judgemental . It’s a sensitive issue. It’s bound to piss off a lot of people. * sigh *
Posted by Gingergirl on June 28, 2013 at 12:25 am
Well written! I love people who post facts; along with their opinions, in a sweet non-judgmental way. Good Job:)
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 3:38 pm
Thank you. I’m a bit relieved that majority of those who have read this don’t think my post is bad.
I feel bad about it, but there’s no other way I can say what I’m really thinking , mildly. I have to be straightforward and honest.
Posted by List of X on June 28, 2013 at 4:02 am
I don’t think there are really that many cases when obese people deserve acceptance. All that extra weight could be a symptom of a genetic, psychological, or some other health issue – if so, there is a disease and the person should seek medical help, not acceptance. On the other hand, if obesity is not caused by a medical issue, then it’s due to bad eating habits and lack of exercise, and the obesity itself would likely cause (or could already be causing) multiple health problems like diabetes and hypertension. Again, the person should be taking steps to reverse the weight gain to address these resulting health issues, not seek acceptance. Someone had compared obesity to alcoholism in the comments, and I completely agree with the comparison – it’s not the fact of drinking alcohol or having extra weight that’s a problem, it’s drinking too much alcohol or having too much fat that is. I can accept someone’s drinking or extra weight, but not when it becomes a cause or a result of a problem.
Ok, if I sounded too preachy here, it’s mainly because I keep trying to convince myself to eat better and exercise more. 🙂
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 1:25 pm
Obese people will give all sorts of reasons… psychological, genes, and so forth. Bottomline…. they ate too much…… Out of control eating……. They let go. If they stay healthy despite the weight, then it’s okay. There are people who have large frame….. that’s genetic. As long as they are healthy and without medical issues, that’s good.
That’s why, this really is a sensitive issue. I mean, why do people smoke when they very well know it causes lung cancer ( and other diseases) ? It’s addiction. Maybe eating is addiction. I don’t know.
Posted by List of X on June 29, 2013 at 5:47 am
I’m sure there are disorders that cause a person’s metabolism to be so off, that even after eating the normal or smaller portions the body still packs on the pounds.
I just don’t see how a person could be healthy with a weight of 400-500 pounds or more. They may have no immediate problems, but they are almost guaranteed to have medical problems.
Posted by Lafemmeroar on June 28, 2013 at 8:14 am
I can only speak for myself … I used to be able to eat a tub of ice cream and bags of Doritos in my twenties and not gain a pound. Then the thirties hit and the forties … and I do love ice cream and my chicken mcnuggets. So where am I on this issue? I think it’s all about nutrition and digestion. I know that when I was eating healthy, I had no cravings for the “bad stuff” then one day I fell of the wagon and got myself a 20 piece chicken mcnuggets … then the double quarter pounder came … then the tub of ice cream … then … well the rest is history. Now, I’m back to eating vegan … but on my way home from work and starving … I almost succumbed to my addiction when I passed by a McDonald’s … I said almost. It’s a battle … for my health … Oh and I want to look good too 🙂 missed your blog Ren 🙂
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 1:31 pm
Lafemmeroar….. That’s so true. yeah, yeah, it’s for the health… that;s a given….. but the truth, the real truth ….. I want to look good ! ! ! * slapping myself *
Posted by SerachShiro on June 28, 2013 at 1:13 pm
You’re right but these people are stuck in a life pattern where it is difficult to come out and where you for need a lot of determination and self-respect, I think it’s all psychological ! If you want you can ……………! 🙂
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 3:22 pm
It’s hard when ones stomach is so distended that the person has to eat a lot to feel satisfied.
When a person is as large as the photo I posted on my post, it’s almost impossible to diet. These women need surgery … a drastic solution to their problem. Then , maybe, afterwards, reconstruction of their bodies… their body will sag, right ?
I don’t know. It’s unbelievable. Maybe they don’t look in the mirror anymore. I would think that if only for their gross appearance, they’d make a change, never mind their health.
Posted by SerachShiro on June 28, 2013 at 4:15 pm
It’s for me also unbelievable but the question always remain,why they do this to them self ! Someone who loves himself doesn’t do it, so you also can go from when they were little, did they received enough love, was them teach security ect. ect. First people needs love themselves than comes other things ! It was nice talking to you and I loved this post because it’s a very big problem everywhere and it needs attention ! Bye and saluti from SérachShirò
Posted by renxkyoko on June 30, 2013 at 1:11 am
There’s no other answer but ADDICTION ! It’s like, why do people smoke.? Why are some addicted to pornography, sex, and whatnot? Some call it OBSSESION. I think addiction is a medical issue… obssesion is psychological.
Anorexics look in the mirror and think they are fat. I don’t know about the obese. What are they thinking when they look at themsleves in the mirror…… naked! ( I’ve seen pictures of naked obese people….. oh, man )
Posted by melanie on June 30, 2013 at 7:11 am
I totally & completely agree with you… yep, oh man/woman! 😀
No need to be a doctor or a rocket scientist to realize that any kind of addiction is supposed to fill up affective gaps that cause stress, personality troubles and general anxiety… In France, we believe more in psychotherapy than in those “happiness pills” with terrible side-effects, first of them being… pill addiction!
Posted by SerachShiro on June 30, 2013 at 8:39 pm
All these are a huge problem and are increasing a lot, the government have to do something serious against these addictions, and non of these addictions are right for no one so let them work to create some solutions to take these horrible problems away and see life becomes much better ! 🙂
Posted by manningtreearchive on June 28, 2013 at 3:01 pm
A well-written post. I wonder why I don’t get notification of your new posts from WordPress in spite that I am a follower of your site.
Posted by renxkyoko on June 28, 2013 at 3:13 pm
Ah !
Check out your list of subscriptions. Maybe notification is on OFF. I wondered about my other subscriptions, too, then I saw that . Also, maybe you just clicked follow,( the one on top, ). If so, you will find my new post on your My Reader feature.
Posted by Nia Simone on June 28, 2013 at 8:19 pm
This has been a fascinating conversation! I’m with Countingducks who commented that the spirit in which you write is never mean and is. in fact, delightful.
I think the obesity epidemic is a sign of widespread alienation, a crisis of the spirit. Then again, I don’t know. Some of the obese people I know are very spiritual.
I think it’s an addiction, perhaps. And a matter of degree. I definitely consume more calories than I burn when I’m upset, and I gain weight when I do so. I am experimenting with raising my metabolism through heavy weight lifting and a careful diet that has enough protein. Sometimes I slip up and miss work outs and eat too much, but I get back on track. The point of this is that I can look at the picture and think, “There, but for the grace of God, go I.” I have people I love who are obese and I just accept them. That’s just the way they are. I am deeply grateful that I haven’t fallen all the way into that well of addiction to where I can’t get out at all. There’s always a ladder there, and I grab hold of it and climb back out, go back to the gym, use myfitnesspal.com to track nutrition. As for obese people, I’m with Mohamed, who posted here, just pray for them (and for myself that I don’t fall in the well and lose hold of that ladder!).
As for it being a disease, I think our brains get conditioned through repetition and need to be reprogrammed through behavioral modification and medication. Yes, at this extreme point, it is a disease, of the brain. The way it works, I think, is we associate food with pleasure. Then eat in response to a negative emotion. Keep doing that often enough and you’ve programmed your brain. The limbic system, I think, is where this happens.
Wow, you know what Ren? You really helped me because I’ve been having a really hard time breaking a streak of over-consuming calories and this post has made me want to be strong and get back on track. One good day leads to another and it gets easier, I found.
Good job, and keep posting your thoughts. They’re great!
Posted by ResidentPatriot on June 29, 2013 at 4:49 am
great insights on obesity, i think there is a need for more information to be distributed about this (obesity) and if anyone has a potential to be obese…
Posted by melanie on June 30, 2013 at 7:05 am
Excellent post, Kyoko, congrats! Welcome to fat America! 😀 I lived in Houston, Texas for 5 years and it was nicknamed THE fattest city in the US… I did see huge people that I’ve never seen in Europe or Asia! These past years obesity has become a “national plague” in America where most people don’t have meal times, snack all day long and have no food self-control or self-discipline…
Posted by Kavita Joshi on June 30, 2013 at 2:30 pm
I am a sweet tooth myself and as you said we have to be more deciplined to get out and workout to burn those extra calories we intake every now and then…good post Ren…bravo…
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Posted by tashterd on July 1, 2013 at 7:38 am
took the words right out of my mouth
Posted by renxkyoko on July 2, 2013 at 9:16 pm
I’m glad I did that. Looking at that photo, it’s really difficult to cushion my words… let the ” bricks” fall where they may.
Posted by tashterd on July 3, 2013 at 12:17 am
agreed.
Posted by Seyi sandra on July 1, 2013 at 12:38 pm
This is a brutally honest post! And I love it because you’re saying the truth, gluttony is indeed a sin!!! Great job friend!
Posted by renxkyoko on July 2, 2013 at 9:00 pm
Thank you, Seyi ! Alrhough I’m a little worried about the brutally honest thing, ha ha. But it’s the truth. That’s gluttony, no matter how the world turns.
Posted by odiousghost on July 2, 2013 at 6:34 am
Great post! – But… Paris is a hard place to go and not over-indulge in some way!! Good luck.
Posted by renxkyoko on July 2, 2013 at 8:56 pm
One thing I’m certain of….. Europe is the place to go if you want to diet, .. the food is very expensive. I saw one donut that cost Euro 1.60, that’s about US $ 2.oo. A box of Krispy Creme here in the US * ( one dozen donuts ) is $5.00. We refused to buy at any hamburger joints like McDonalds coz one burger that costs $ 2.75 here in the US is like Euro 8.00. ($10 )
Posted by Nia Simone on July 3, 2013 at 6:55 pm
LOL, that’s a really good point. There’s always that financial deterrent to fall back on.
Posted by Ynal on July 3, 2013 at 4:33 am
ayokong maging obese but i think malaput nako dun. need to do some healthy diet. argh
Posted by Vulli Sophie The Giraffe Teether on July 12, 2013 at 11:35 am
I enjoy looking through an article that can make men and women think. Also, thank you for allowing me to comment!
Posted by WordsFallFromMyEyes on July 13, 2013 at 2:16 am
Interesting & honest scribe, Renx.
Obesity frightens me in that it signifies to me: letting go/giving up/hiding/over indulgence (which I find unattractive, gross) – and it signifies problems of self esteem, love of self.
Then again, there are tubby men and women who say they’re fine with it and live apparently happy, healthily – and many work in comedy! I think it signifies a problem, but how deep that problem is, depends on the individual.
Really, a great post.
Posted by allenjambalaya on July 14, 2013 at 2:10 pm
Hello Ren. Long time I haven’t visited your blog. I hope I can still follow.
Posted by timkeen40 on July 15, 2013 at 12:30 am
They bury the obese people right next to the skinny people. When nature takes over, all that’s left are bones.
Enjoy your time here. We only have a little while.
Great post.
Tim
Posted by Nia Simone on July 15, 2013 at 2:36 am
Good one.
Posted by thaygoulart on July 19, 2013 at 5:54 am
Aw Paris… July 2014, I am trying to go there! Great post, first time visiting your blog and it’s really nice! 😀
Posted by efratadenny on July 23, 2013 at 2:21 pm
I saw pizza hut logo in that women picture. I think that photo was created by their business rival. 🙂
Posted by Malcolm Greenhill on August 18, 2013 at 4:17 pm
Excellent treatment of a difficult issue. There is another related issue and that is that obesity and its related medical disorders are subsidized with socialized medicine. All I wish to point out here is that socialized medicine prevents people from incurring the costs of their own lifestyle choices. Society may approve of this choice but we have to realize that it will encourage overindulgent behavior in general, which will lead to increased obesity.
Posted by Grazer on January 22, 2014 at 11:57 pm
This obese disease thing seems nonsense to me….. eating too much and moving too little is the problem…. pure and simple…. cause and effect. It’s impossible to get fat or put on weight, fluid retention from a kidney disorder aside, unless you consume more calories than your body uses. Yes food has and is fiendishly engineered to tantalise the taste buds and stimulate desire and yes the change to high sugar high carb food makes excess consumption easy, but disease nope. If folk want to eat themselves into oblivion that’s their choice, but we also can choose otherwise. Slow metabolism increases with exercise. There now seems convincing evidence to show causality between the consumption of a high sugar and carb diet, including too much fruit sugar and dementia not forgetting type two diabetes and the ravages it takes on the body. Very rarely see obese people in lands where there is a food or water shortage… take areas of Africa for instance….. slow metabolism and fat gene seems to be a non issue where calorie intake is linked to energy required to procure… hunt. ..prepare food. I stumbled onto your blog and wish you well….greetings from Scotland.
Posted by Holistic Wayfarer on March 21, 2014 at 3:48 am
Refreshing.
Posted by Amy Newnham on July 15, 2016 at 7:24 am
I think this is an interesting thing to write about and so topical. I have my struggles with food and, even though I am a ‘normal’ size, I know that it runs much deeper than an issue of having enough willpower to exercise. It’s about self-worth, feeling emotions instead of burying them under food, being brave enough to be vulnerable and share our true self to the world… I think it being classed as a disease is good as it might legitimise the fight so many people have. Thanks for sharing!