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Jun 23, 2010, 11:56 AM
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Member Since: Jun 2010
Location: East Coast
Posts: 45
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Hi Formerlybrilliant, et al,
I can really identify.... years ago, when I was in my early 30's I took an executive position and within 9 months had gained about 30-35lbs, going from 205 to 240 (also at 5'11")-- I was completely miserable. I became depressed over my clothes not fitting, my poor shape, my belly sticking out, being out of breath quickly, and just about everything seemed to center on my weight-- it became the lens thru which I viewed the world-- and it was dark and dreary. Even going out was a psychological chore, equivalent to running an emotional triathlon!
As you well kinow, science has been studying this for years and no meds have emerged as safe, although some MD's will prescribe stimulants (such as Ritalin, Concerta or Adderral), but this a potentially dangerous practice. and hardly holistic
But, not to be outdone by reality, I decided to try an experiment published in the Journal of Medical Economics in which they ran a fascinating study with interesting results. Here's how it works:
1) Pick a buddy or series of buddies who also want to lose weight.
2) Make a bet (no less than $100, but to make it stick and if you've been down this road in a severe manner, I would recommend $200) to lose at least 4-5 lbs per month, pick a start date and end date, and use an one accurate machine (avoid using different machines to maintain consistency) on a bi-weekly or weekly basis.
3) The person who does not lose that weight forfeits his money and the others split it. If everyone makes the new weight, another $100 is added to the kitty and 4-5 more lbs are added for the next month. The person who does who does not lose the weight adds another $100 to the kitty to remain in the game.
4) The process goes on for 6-12 months and the money simply remains in the kitty. By that time there will be anywhere between $500-1000, a sizable reinforcer and motivator for anyone except Bill Gates, Warren Buffet and T. Boone Pickens.
5) If you want to maintain your motivation, keep the money in the kitty for an another year, it will linger in the back of your mind every time you reach for that extra slice of Pizza or Key Lime pie.
What the researchers discovered was that people will not lose weight for their health, to look good, to pick up a new gf/bf, to get a new job, etc..... but, they will for money!!!  Go figure. One caveat, what you're looking for is not simply weight loss, it's to become healthy, and a slim body doesn't always spell a healthy person. 
Finally, do see a nutritionist and/or your PCP before starting. I think Fresia's suggestion would be an excellent way to do this, with money serving as an added moyivator. I know also, that in my country we don't eat big meals/portions (supersized) like many Americans do, we eat 4-6 times per day, portions are small, people walk everywhere and body image issues are not as pronounced.
Try this out and let us know how it works. Good Luck!
Baaku
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