Three steps to weight reduction

Maintaining a healthy body means more than just getting rid of the fat from the food we eat. Those who have tried maintaining their weight are one in saying that it is a matter of discipline that is not easy to start.

After all, losing weight is not a miracle that transforms one’s body and disposition overnight. It is a continuous process that, at best, should be a lifestyle supported by healthier food intake, regular exercise and medical guidance.

With all these in mind, Abbott Laboratories recently introduced its "10-20-30" weight management program for obese individuals who would like to achieve a healthy weight and thus, a healthy life.

Guest speakers, led by cardiologist Dr. Loewe Go of St. Luke’s Medical Center, food columnist and cooking show host Heny Sison, Philips Survivor winner Vikki Aquino, Lolo Dad’s award-winning chef Ariel Manuel and model-actress-TV host Angel Aquino shared their expertise on fitness, nutrition and weight management.

The 10-20-30 program, which the speakers discussed, centered on three important aspects in achieving a successful weight management program.

First, consult your doctor before starting on any weight management program. Size, age and sex will have an obvious influence on the kinds of food you eat and even on the kind of activities you undertake. Ten minutes with your doctor is all it takes to determine the right weight management program most suitable for you.

Second, eat 20 percent less of your regular food intake, which means saying no to fatty/oily foods, not to mention sumptuous buffets. In short, it is all about eating wisely.

Third, a regular 30-minute exercise or form of exercise incorporated into one’s activities each day, not only helps keep the fat away, it also improves one’s health and appearance in more than a few ways. Modern conveniences such as driving or taking a bus ride to work or watching television most often deprive us of natural opportunities to use our bodies. Using the elevators instead of the stairs, or remote controls and other electronic gadget results in a lower metabolic rate and thus, higher chances of getting fat, overweight and weak.

To help jump-start your 10-20-30 regimen, ask your doctor about pharmacological interventions which support long-term weight control such as the newest anti-obesity drug called sibutramine (Reductil).

Sibutramine (Reductil) inhibits the re-uptake of neurotransmitters that affect eating behavior. The drug promotes the feeling of satiety (or fullness) to control eating. Clinical trials on sibutramine (Reductil), in combination with diet and exercise, reveal that the combination can produce a weight loss of five to 10 percent.

Lastly, the key to a successful weight management program lies in setting realistic goals. Both the patient and the doctor should set realistic weight loss to make the program work and bring satisfaction to the patient.

For nutrition counseling, Abbott Laboratories, through its Direct Marketing Group, is ready to be of service to all those interested in receiving nutritional advice. Call 689-0555.