Obesity Research

Charlotte Observer, Jan. 5, 2011
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2011/01/05/1956356/weight-loss-ideas-that-work.html

Applause for the efforts to pay attention to early onset obesity. I cannot see the wisdom of a government-based solution, such as taxing sugary drinks. Other ideas:


1. Eliminate child abuse.

2. Give every child two involved, committed parents.

3. Promote parenting skills.

4. Associate fruits and vegetables with physical attractiveness and high energy.

5. Instead of top-down research (testing digital coaching), use the research dollars to observe behaviors of obese children and how their food choices are associated with emotional needs. Identify what percent of their consumption comes from ready-to-eat food and snacks (impulse) vs. prepared food (planned.)

6. Identify any genetic predispositions for compulsive eating, such as slow neural awareness of satiation, sugar craving, or low serotonin levels.



Given the many mental health professionals listed in the phone book, it is amazing that we cannot call obesity what it is – a symptom of emotional suffering.