One common target for the bully is the "fat kid." I used the word "fat" on purpose because saying "overweight" seems to lessen the impact of what needs to be recognized here. A slightly overweight child who is about to go into a growth spurt is NOT usually the targets, I'm referring to the children who are starting to approach the common definition of being obese. It makes no difference to a bully why a person has a weight problem (overeating, stress eating, hormonal issues). That person is simply a target. Holiday foods are filled with ingredients rich in fats, high in sugars, and packed with many other ingredients that simply are not part of a healthy balanced diet when eaten in the massive quantities found at gatherings and family celebrations. It's not unusual to gain 10lbs or more during the next 45 days or so.
It's been my experience, and research shows (I'm not a physician but all over the Internet there are studies) that the vast majority of children struggling with weight comes from overeating as a habit, overeating due to stress, or not having the skills to recognize that there is a self-control issue with food. NOT for hormonal problems and other chemical imbalances.
So, for YOU the victim of bullying - this time is a very challenging time with temptations of flavorful foods. And, this is a particularly difficult time dealing with the fact that you're being victimized because of your weight - it's a vicious cycle. This is going to be hard for you to do but, this is a PERFECT OPPORTUNITY for you to take control of your health and your life. While I believe that you deserve the opportunity to enjoy the holiday feasts with your family and friends, I challenge you to NOT take that 2nd or 3rd (or more) trip back to the table for more food. Take that one trip, and know in your heart that YOU are making the conscious effort to reduce your weight and working improve your quality of life where bulling is concerned.
So, you've heard my basic "pep-talk" about losing weight. There's a lot more in-depth things you can do to get on the right path to healthy eating, research it and implement it. You'll be happier and healthier - bottom line. And, in a blog dedicated to raising awareness about bullying and researching ways to stop bullying, it's hard to imagine that you'd read about diet advice from me. But, stranger things have happened!
For my PARENTS of children who struggle with their weight and your kids are being bullied because of weight issues relating to eating (and not hormonal problems, etc..) - it's also up to YOU to help your child learn about and practice healthy eating habits. That's is the RESPONSIBILITY of a parent. If YOU are a parent who also struggles with weight problems - you are equally responsible for being a good example for your child. This is absolutely NOT one of those times where you'd say "Do as I say, not as I do." Before you start an dietary change, I do encourage you to speak with your family doctor because they will have the opportunity to rule-out any medical issues that may be causing your child to be overweight. However, if you've been able to rule-out medical problems, then.....I challenge you to help your child by feeling the same "pain" they are going to feel if they embark on a diet. Commit to go on the same kind of weight loss program with them - DO IT WITH THEM, DO IT FOR THEM.
Here are some resources for you to learn more about weight issues among our youth...
It's important to remember that for most people, weight loss is a project that takes a lot of self control and is something that is gradual (if done safely). Make sure you understand that for the best chance at making a successful change in your eating habits that you must have realistic goals in mind and realize that setbacks will happen. It's a long-term journey and you won't have an "overnight" miraculous transformation. But, in the end, you'll have better health and you or your child will have one less reason to be a target of bullying.
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