In a world obsessed with appearances, let’s have an honest conversation about a three-letter word that carries so much weight (pun intended): FAT.
Beauty truly lies in the eye of the beholder – a saying that’s both timeless and true. Yet, Western beauty standards have somehow convinced many of us that “thin” equals “beautiful.” Interestingly, this isn’t a universal truth. In Mauritania, traditional beauty ideals favor fuller figures, while in Pacific Island cultures like Samoa, larger body types have historically been associated with prosperity and beauty. In parts of Nigeria, “fattening rooms” were once a cultural practice where brides-to-be would gain weight as a symbol of prosperity and preparation for marriage.
What exactly is “fat”?
Medically speaking, it’s essential tissue our bodies need to function. You just require the right amount in your body, as excess can be unhealthy. But socially? It’s become a loaded term, weaponized to make people feel less worthy. Here’s my truth: your size doesn’t dictate your right to joy, love, or living life to the fullest. I have seen bigger people having the time of their lives while “thinner” people were not. I do have to say, in my opinion, attractive people seem to get more benefits than they should… but that’s a story for another day.
That dreaded “How do I look in these jeans?” question isn’t really about the jeans – it’s about seeking validation in a world that’s made us question our worth based on our waistlines.
So, you’ve made peace with yourself but want to make some changes, I have heard some people call it “Tone just a little” 😉. Let’s talk about what we have seen work based on true stories.
Weight Loss Methods
There are 4 types that I am aware of:
Fasting is like giving your digestive system a mini-vacation. Whether you skip breakfast or abstain from food for an entire day, fasting can help reset your body’s metabolism. It’s not just about weight loss; some people swear by the mental clarity and energy boost they experience when they fast.
Exercise can be seen as a celebration of what your body can do. It’s not just about hitting the gym or running marathons. Dancing in your living room, hiking with friends, or even playing tag with your kids—all count as exercise. It’s about moving your body in ways that feel good… well, sometimes. That 42km marathon can really be painful!
Caloric restriction is like portion control on steroids. It’s about eating fewer calories than your body needs to maintain its current weight. The idea is that by eating less, you can live longer and healthier. Just make sure you’re still getting all the nutrients your body needs.
Nutrient deprivation is a bit like trying to drive a car on an empty tank. When your body doesn’t get the essential vitamins and minerals it needs, it can’t function properly. This can lead to a host of health issues, so it’s important to maintain a balanced diet even if you’re cutting calories or fasting.
Real Stories, Real Results
Among all these weight loss methods, the most successful stories often come down to one simple truth: mindful eating. I had a colleague who visited a dietitian and transformed her body in three months, inspiring two others to follow suit. No gym memberships, no extreme fasting – just conscious eating and regular meals.
I also had a friend who was obese and ended up in hospital. She was told if she didn’t lose the weight, amputation would be on the cards. Talk about a real wake-up call. It’s not just about aesthetics – it’s about health. And the solution? Again, it came down to understanding what to eat, not just how much.
The Exercise Empire involves HIIT warriors, weight lifters, and marathon enthusiasts. While exercise is fantastic for health, the transformation journey through this path requires serious dedication. It’s a longer road, filled with early mornings, workout gear investments, gym subscriptions and the eternal truth that “you can’t outrun a bad diet.” . That means after all of that they still have to watch what they eat.
Fasting has become quite popular, and I’ve seen many friends try it. Whether it’s skipping breakfast or abstaining from food for entire days, I’ve noticed something interesting: while they might experience benefits like mental clarity or feeling more energized, I haven’t witnessed any dramatic body transformations from fasting alone. Our Muslim friends fast annually during Ramadan, and while they might lose some weight during the month, it’s usually temporary and not the kind of transformation we’re talking about
To be honest, we still don’t understand Nutrient deprivation.
The Layman Truth
From all we’ve seen and discussed, we keep circling back to one fundamental truth: we are what we eat. But what exactly should we eat? The answer isn’t in extreme restrictions or fancy diets. It’s about balance – incorporating more whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while being mindful of processed foods and added sugars. I know that doesn’t say much about what exactly to eat, so I’ll invest a bit more time there to share in a future article.
The most successful transformations we’ve seen often come from sustainable changes in eating habits, not from extreme measures. It’s not about depriving yourself or punishing your body – it’s about nourishing it with what it needs to thrive.
Remember, your worth isn’t measured in kilograms. Whether you choose to make changes to your body or not, that decision should come from a place of self-love, not social pressure. After all, the best kind of transformation starts with accepting yourself exactly as you are, then making the best version of yourself.