talking about weight

Question
My father has recently gained a lot of weight, and it is because he really likes to eat.

Due to recent surgery, he cannot seriously work out, although he will go to the gym from time to time. He is also in his 60's and does not have the same amount of energy that he used to. He should probably be getting more exercise, but due to his surgery, this cannot be helped.

Unfortunately, even though he can no longer maintain the same amount of physical activity he used to, he eats the same amount. In fact, he eats more. He never snacks unhealthily, or has big deserts, but whenever we go out to eat he will order huge amounts of [usually fatty] foods, in addition to drinking two glasses of wine.

The problem is that he doesn't seem to feel any shame about it. We have tried to bring up the problem to him in a supporting way but he really doesn't seem to have a desire to do anything about it. He loves eating, and he's happy to continue to eat what he wants and however much of it he wants.

Please advise, and it would be much appreciated! We need to know how to talk to him and what simple steps he could take.

Answer
Hi Jack,

I'm sorry to hear about your father.

I've been working in health and nutrition my whole life and I've found there's just not much you can do to help someone who doesn't want help. The best thing you can do is just give your father love and acceptance.

A 3rd party is always better to explain things, generally. Usually people don't listen to their family when it comes to their health or nutrition. One of the best ways I've found to educate people who don't want to learn is through documentaries, like the recent hit "Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead." If you can get him to watch that, I'm sure it would make a difference.

I hope that helps!

You can get more nutrition tips and advice for free in our newsletter at www.AuthenticHealthCoach.com

Wishing you wellness,
Tom

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