Do you ever stand on the scale and feel not just the extra weight you’ve put on your body, but the burden of countless failed attempts to shed the pounds that seem to cling to you like a stubborn reminder of every diet abandoned, every workout skipped, and every moment of self-doubt that whispers to you to go for the easy fix?
Over the past year, many people I know have embraced GLP-1 weight loss shots, achieving remarkable results that seemed unattainable without medical intervention. Meanwhile, I’ve found myself on a frustrating path of regaining over 30 pounds despite my best efforts. As I approach this mid-life crossroad, I’m trying to “make sense” of the long-term effects of these treatments and my responsibilities as a mother, particularly to my daughter, who requires additional support and will need me for a long time.
The allure of these weight loss shots is undeniable. They promise quick results and have worked wonders for many. However, my hesitations are deeply rooted in my past experiences with diet pills like Xanadrine (my 90’s folk) and phentermine (early 2000’s), which offered temporary solutions but ultimately led to weight gain once I stopped using them. This cycle of losing and regaining weight is not only physically taxing but emotionally draining. Sure, I see success when cutting carbs, eating plain, and exercising daily, but I need more of a balance that fits my life: a lunch or dinner out, a traditional Italian Sunday dinner, and, of course, a glass or two of wine on the weekend! Not to mention that I have been at this since I was fourteen years old, and yes, my closet holds just about every size of clothing!
I see that these weight loss shots can provide rapid results, with many individuals experiencing significant weight loss in a relatively short period. This can offer immediate motivation and a sense of accomplishment, which is enticing. Additionally, I know that being under the care of a healthcare professional can provide reassurance and guidance, ensuring that any associated health risks are properly monitored. Some people also find that these treatments help regulate their appetite and metabolism, making it easier to make healthier choices.
However, the long-term impact of these weight loss shots is still not fully understood, raising concerns about potential dependency and the risk of weight regain once the treatment stops, which will only lead me back to where I am now. Furthermore, the quick weight loss associated with these shots could lead to muscle loss, which would be counterproductive to the goal of staying strong as I continue to age. Lastly, over-reliance on weight loss shots may detract from the necessary lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating and regular exercise, that are essential for sustainable weight management, which I know and have learned in recent years, but still, here I am.
As I weigh these pros and cons, the realization dawns on me that sustainable weight management is not solely about the numbers on a scale. It’s about making lifestyle changes that I can commit to long-term. The hype surrounding these shots often overshadows the reality that true transformation requires dedication and a readiness to embrace change.
While I’m tempted to join the ranks of those who have found success with GLP-1 shots, I must consider my motivations and the potential consequences. The fear of not knowing the long-term internal effects, coupled with the desire to remain strong and healthy, drives my decision-making process.
In conclusion, my journey is not just about losing weight; it’s about finding a balance that allows me to be there for my children long-term while prioritizing my health. Whether I ultimately decide to start the shots or not, I recognize that the path to wellness is multifaceted, requiring both physical and emotional commitment. As I navigate this terrain once again, I hope to emerge not just lighter in weight, but stronger in spirit and health.
Stay tuned!
https://www.preferredhealthmagazine.com/makingsensewithmelissa
Past Column Topics:
Understanding the Journey, Friendships with a Purpose Friendship is a beautiful bond that thrives on mutual understanding, empathy, and support. However, for parents of children with unique abilities, this bond can sometimes feel strained. As someone who has experienced the ups and downs of this journey and witnessed many friendships and relationships diminish, I think it’s essential to “make sense” of how to create friendships with a purpose. Understanding the challenges faced by friends navigating the complexities of raising children with special needs is crucial, as is learning not to take their lack of interaction personally. First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that these parents are not seeking sympathy; rather, they crave understanding and connection. Life can often be overwhelming for them, filled with health concerns, educational challenges, constant worry about their child’s future, and many of life's uncertainties. This reality can lead to fluctuations in communication. If a friend doesn’t reach out as often, it’s not a reflection of their feelings toward you; it’s a manifestation of their daily struggles and exhaustion. Empathy is crucial. Rather than focusing on what you may perceive as a lack of communication, try to understand the whirlwind of emotions they face. There are days, weeks, or even months when they might need to retreat into their own world, seeking solace in the familiarity of their routine. Recognizing that their silence isn’t personal can be liberating for both parties. Offer a listening ear when they’re ready to talk, and let them know you’re there for them, regardless of the frequency of your interactions. I like to refer to this time as a "system reboot." These periods often occur for me after a health episode or an IEP meeting, when I am overwhelmed with information. Another important aspect is to provide support without overwhelming them. Offer specific help rather than a general “Let me know if you need anything.” Instead, you could say, “I’d love to bring over dinner this week” or “Can I come over and give you a break?” These specific offers can feel more manageable than an open-ended invitation, which might inadvertently add to their anxiety. Even a simple “I’m here for you” can go a long way in reinforcing that they are not alone on their journey. Additionally, educate yourself about their child’s unique abilities. Understanding their challenges can help you empathize more deeply, engage in meaningful conversations, and find more ways to offer practical support. Having this knowledge allows you to ask thoughtful questions and offer genuine support, demonstrating that you care about their child’s experiences as much as you care about your friend’s. There is nothing worse than someone engaging in conversation about your child and assuming they know their diagnosis or offering unsolicited solutions. Such ignorance can be offensive and insensitive. In conclusion, being a friend to a parent of a child with unique abilities requires patience, understanding, and flexibility. It's also important to recognize that everyone deals with their own stresses, and we never seek to minimize what you may be experiencing. After all, life is relative to our own experiences. As a parent dealing with daily stressors, I often tell my close family and friends that sometimes, “my sympathy tank is just full,” and I cannot physically or mentally take on more than what’s in my four walls. It’s about creating a safe space where they can share their joys and struggles without fear of judgment. By offering unwavering support and empathy, you can help them feel valued and understood—making a world of difference in their lives. Remember, friendship is not about quantity but about the quality of connection, especially during challenging times. There are many joys to be had, and without these experiences, I would not have been inspired to write a children’s book touching on this very topic of empathy. Stay tuned for the release of I’m Not Invisible coming late fall.