Why Obesity is Not Your Fault

Published on 
November 22, 2024
January 19, 2024
John Brownlee
John Brownlee
John Brownlee
Ask Theresa: An advice column

Everyone who is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, prediabetes or obesity has been told the same thing at one point or another: "eat less, exercise more."

If only it were that simple! The truth is that when it comes to these conditions, there are many complicating factors at play, including our personal genetics, what medications we're on, our cultural backgrounds, and more.

And that's all without addressing the elephant in the room: the fact that we live in a world where making healthy choices is neither easy nor obvious. Where sugary and high-carb foods are engineered to hack the parts of our brains that tell us when we're full. Where medical disinformation is rampant, and our own doctors are too overloaded with patients to answer simple questions in a timely manner.

We here at Virta Health know the truth: while our personal choices do matter, being diagnosed with obesity, diabetes and prediabetes is not your fault. You can lose weight, achieve better health, and feel better with the proper support. You can even reverse diabetes! But it's not a simple matter of "eat less, exercise more." Rather, it's about eating the right things, moving your body in a way that feels good to you, and having access to the kind of clinician and community support that comes from being a Virta Health patient.

Just listen to Virta Health coach Rachael explain the "eat less, exercise more" fallacy, and how Virta helps thousands of people living with obesity and diabetes make healthy choices and reverse their outcomes.

If you are struggling with getting healthy after rapid weight gain or have been diagnosed with obesity, diabetes, or prediabetes, Virta Health may be able to help. By making healthy lifestyle changes in a medical setting with supportive resources like 1:1 virtual coaching, you can regain control of your health and feel like yourself again. See if you’re eligible for Virta Health here.

This blog is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or any advice relating to your health. View full disclaimer

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