You’ve done the work. You lost the weight. So, why are you unhappy? Have you become obsessed with what the scale says? All too often, people reduce themselves to a number on the scale. They measure their self-worth by what numbers are displayed on the scale. Out of that number, no matter what the number actually is, depression, anxiety, isolation, and loneliness can arise. Too frequently, our identity is based solely on the number we see each morning. If we don’t hit the right number everything else in our lives is amiss and it can feel like the cycle only repeats itself day after day after day.
Can you relate?
Do you let your weight dictate whether or not you are going to have a good day? Does the scale determine whether or not you step out the door and conquer your life in the present moment? Here at Advanced Surgical and Weight Loss Institute, we care about your health and well-being. We know that being at a healthy weight is important for your overall health and this is why we have committed to excellence when it comes to bariatric surgery in Melbourne, FL. While this is our emphasis, we also know that too many are ruled by numbers and we want this to stop. Have you ever considered other ways to measure and evaluate your health? If not, we encourage you to read on for ways to free yourself from the scale and still keep your health a priority.
Weight is important, but it is not everything. For example, did you know that the size of your waist is a good indicator of health? Why? Because the circumference of your waist gives doctors insight into other health issues. Your waist carries visceral fat, the type of fat that also surrounds internal organs. The size of your waist will alert your physician to the likelihood of obesity-related illnesses. Men who have a waist circumference of 40 inches or more and women who are at 35 inches or higher are at a risk for stroke, heart disease, and more.
Your cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels all give insight into your overall health. When was the last time you had them checked? We suggest visiting your primary care physician for a yearly physical and learning your stats. This can alert you to any current issues and/or potential problems and give you a handle on what to do next.
Did you know that the amount of water you drink and the number of servings of vegetables you eat each day are also great indicators of health? Of course, one day of hydration and a single salad won’t do the trick, but a lifestyle that includes both of these lets you know you are getting the micronutrients and hydration your body needs.
Listen, we know that it is often hard to get past what the scale says. However, remember that you are more than that singular number. There are other indicators of health that you should consider.