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November 13, 2007

Biggest Loser/Wrigley’s Blog Tour

Wrigley’s and NBC’s The Biggest Loser have teamed up to do a blog tour and today they're stopping here.

Below is our interview with Wrigley nutritionist Molly Gee. Molly Gee is a registered dietitian and communications consultant with more than 25 years experience in health/nutrition communications and the clinical management of obesity. She is Also a dynamic leader in the American Dietetic Association (ADA). In recognition of her dedication and contributions to dietetics, she received the ADA’s Medallion award in 2004.

Thanks Molly!

1) What made you want to become a nutritionist?

Food has always been at the center of my world. As a child growing up in the kitchen of my parent’s Chinese restaurant, I knew that my family’s livelihood depended on selling delicious foods. In high school, I met a Registered Dietitian who inspired me to look into the science of food and how it relates to health and happiness. I’ve never regretted this decision to become a Registered Dietitian.

2) Is it true that your body has a natural body weight that it is comfortable at, and no matter how much dieting/exercise you do, your body will fight to return to that "natural weight" even if that weight is technically considered overweight?

In 1982, the set-point theory suggested that body weight is regulated by a control system as an explanation for the difficulty that chronic dieters had in losing weight. It’s not that simple and does not provide an excuse for not trying to achieve a healthy weight. Scientists continue to explore the complex mechanisms that regulate food intake and energy balance which consequently results in body weight. What we can do now is to control are the calories we eat and the calories we burn through physical activity.

3) Are low-carb diets really safe?

Always let your physician know when you are starting a new diet or exercise program. The National Academy of Science has set the Acceptable Macronutrient Range for carbohydrates in adults at 45 – 65 % of total calories. Following a very low carbohydrate for long term carries some potential health risks like an increase of keto-acids which may result in bone mineral loss, elevated blood cholesterol and increased risk of kidney stones.

4) From your experience what are the most common mistakes people make in their weight loss journey?

-- Most people suffer from “all or nothing” thinking. They have to be “perfect” on a diet or they can’t lose all 50 pounds. In other words, they are simply on or off a diet. Losing weight is a life-long journey.

-- People get in a hurry to lose weight. Start with small steps which will make the biggest difference over time. Substitute a 5 – 10 calorie piece of gum like Extra instead of reaching for a high calorie treat. Check out: http://gumisgood.com/walkandchewgum/ for some more great tips, food and activity journal and even a grocery list.

5) If you're overweight and never ate a lot of refined sugars are you at less risk of diabetes or does that not make a difference?

Sugar does not cause Diabetes. People with a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure and are overweight are at higher risk of developing diabetes. Hispanics and African Americans have a higher rate of diabetes.

6) Many diets have the disclaimer regarding "consult a physician if you have or ever had an eating disorder". Are these tendencies ignited or fueled by dieting or is it just a safeguard?

It’s always a good idea to let you primary physician know about any change in diet or activity as a safeguard for your health.

7) What is the single most important change that a person can make on their road to becoming healthy?

First, identify why you want to make a lifestyle change. Are you motivated by your health, the welfare of the family, a milestone birthday? Keep focused on that long-term goal.

Next, keep a journal on food and activity. Write down everything you put in your mouth and the number of steps you take each day. This makes you accountable and increases your chances for behavior change.

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Wrigley and NBC’s The Biggest Loser are giving away 10 Walk and Chew Gum sets. These include a pedometer, a water bottle, gum, and a bonus Biggest Loser DVD. I'll be giving away some to everyone who helped me come up with the questions and the remainder go to the first commenters on this post. I will email the winners and let you know what you need to do to recieve yours.

Posted by hopeful @ November 13, 2007 8:04 AM