Problems with weight loss

Question
Dear Mr. Rapitis,

I am as 49 year old woman in reasonably good health.  Until 8 years ago I never weighed more than 125 pounds and wore a size 5 dress.

When I hit 41, a series of events occurred, not the least of which was being put on a medication which caused weight gain.  Three years later I was 40 pounds heavier which has since increased to 50 pounds.

Since this happened to me so very late in life, I find it absolutely impossible to change my way of eating.  After all, when you have eaten a certain way for nearly half your life, it is difficult to change successfully.  I have tried on numerous occasions and find any dietary changes very unsatisfying.

Unfortunately, my diet consists of all the "wrong" stuff.  Lots of carbs, fats, etc., and very little, if any vegetables and fruits, which I dislike very much.  I cannot understand why I was thin for more than 40 years eating this diet and now I cannot lose weight.

Also, I have a serious problem with portion sizes.  Eating 2 cups of mashed potatoes with gravy at dinner is not unusual, along with a helping of peas, corn, butterbeans, etc.  I do not eat a lot of meat but I do often have sandwiches made of salami, balogna, etc.

In addition, as before my weight gain, my activity level is practically non-existant.  But again, I have been this way ALL MY LIFE with no problems or weight gain.  It is very unpleasant for me to do any physical exercise because I simply do not enjoy it at all.  Also, because of this weight gain I have been having a LOT (and I mean a lot) of pain in my hips making sometimes even walking an excrutiating experience.  Even if I were to engage in some type of physical activity, it would be very painful for me.

I am very concerned that this weight gain pattern is going to continue.  I do not wish to get any heavier, and I would very much like to lose some weight.  I see the solution to my problem as portion control, however, I cannot handle the feelings of hunger that I experience when I try to eat less.  I have attempted to consult with my physician about a medication to assist me with hunger issues and they refuse to help, instead, pushing boilerplate menus plans upon me that are useless.

I am very concerned and seeking your advice.  Thank you.

Mrs. Don French

Answer
Hello Mrs. French,

   Thank you for your nutrition question.  I would be happy to help you with your weight loss goals.  Since you are trying to get down to your previous weight, you need to be taking a product called Juice Plus to help kickstart your metabolism.  Juice Plus contains the nutrients from fresh fruits and vegetables which help your body burn fat and calories more efficiently. It also helps you crave "healthier foods".  Many of my patients have had great success with their weight loss goals while using it.  The website to purchase Juice Plus is http://www.juiceblend.com  Why not give it a try for 4 months and see the results?   Let me know if you have any further questions.

-George Rapitis, Nutritionist

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