Healthy Obsessions at WDW

As an Executive Director for Wellspring, the leading provider of effective, scientifically based treatment for obese and overweight adolescents and young adults, I specializing in behavioral change that helps young people lose weight and keep it off for a lifetime. During my family workshop presentations over the summer, I often discuss how it takes an undying commitment to change, what we call at Wellspring a "healthy obsession."

The initial weight loss success (average 4 lbs of weight loss per week) and long-term results (weight loss continues after camp, on average) of Wellspring campers have been presented at scientific conferences, published in journals and covered by media organizations around the world. These outstanding results are due to the our ability to instill this overall attitude change. An example I give at the family workshops is how I can be found practically every weekend at WDW walking around with my family carrying a backpack loaded down with sandwiches made with fat free cheese, fat free mayo, and lean slices of meat- all something that is not available for purchase at WDW.

We live in what scientists call an "obesogenic culture" meaning that it is almost a natural consequence of our society to become overweight. Afterall, 2/3rds of us are overweight or obese in the United States.

Factors that have contributed to our obesogenic culture include:

· Supersized Portions: Portion sizes have grown rapidly in the last 20 years as companies aim to maximize their profits.

· Meals Prepared by Others: In 1975, Americans ate 25% of their meals outside of the home. Today we eat nearly 50% of our meals outside of the home. By going out to eat, we’re giving up control of ingredients, method of preparation, and portion size.

· The Economic and Psychological Power of Advertising: Food and beverage marketers spend more than $15 billion per year in the United States and Canada promoting their products to kids. Studies show that 70% of foods advertised on TV do not meet nutritional guidelines.

· The Steady Decline of Physical Education: Many schools have been forced to cut electives such as art, music, and physical education due to the increased focus on math and reading scores. Today only 8% of American elementary schools, 6% of middle schools, and 5% of high schools provide daily physical education.

· Digital Entertainment: Almost half of all children age eight to sixteen watch 3-5 hours of T.V. a day. With such inventions as the X-Box and Playstation, that number can be much higher.

· The Car-Centric North American Lifestyle: In the Unite States and Canada, only 10% of city travel occurs on foot or by bicycle. Today, only 13% of all kids walk or bike to school.

· Good Intentions of Protective Parents: Years ago it was considered acceptable for parents to let their children play unsupervised in nearby areas. This sort of behavior is now seen as unacceptably risky and dangerous.

It does seem clear that we do live in a society where becoming overweight or obese is a likely consequence, and being at WDW only amplifies this effect. Let's face it, not only are there sugary and fatty foods everywhere; low fat, low calorie foods are almost non-existent.

Probably the best piece of advice I can give is that when you are packing for WDW, be sure to bring your "healthy obsession" - meaning don't forget your commitment to your health. When you see fatty foods and sugary snacks, just tell yourself, "these foods are not for me." Better yet, do like I do and bring along some apples, specially prepared sandwiches, and other low fat, sugar free snacks.