We have a choice, don't we?

We must consider this question: do people have a choice what they weigh?

Can a 68" 350 lbs. 45 year old man suddenly decide to lose half his bodyweight?

Yes, he may make a decision, and set this goal for himself. Whether the decision is based on a plausible expectation of achieving the goal, or not, is another question, and the ultimate practical one. 

Basically, can this middle aged man, having achieved a prodigious degree of obesity, now achieve a normal body weight, with optimal health and functional ability?

Thus, in a general sense, is one's weight within one's "self-control", or are forces beyond one's control simply too powerful?

To answer this question I will make use of an analogy. The need to breathe is obvious to all, as within a few seconds of being deprived of air one begins to show ill effects. No one would suggest that not breathing is a choice.

But even a function as automatic as breathing can be controlled at times and perhaps permanently altered through persistent efforts. We can slow our breathing, practice deep breathing, learn to do deepwater diving with breath holding, and engage in increased (aerobic) breathing (e.g. while running, climbing, lifting, swimming). We can also choose what we breathe (e.g. cigarette smoke, polluted air, fresh air). The intentional manipulations of breathing may have significant long-term effects.

Similarly, eating is not a choice (we need to eat) even if the consequences of not eating come more slowly than those of not breathing. But clearly, if we have some control over breathing, then we certainly have some control over eating.  Of course we can choose when, where, what and how to eat.

One's weight regulation process refers to the various processes determining one's bodyweight. Genetic factors affect metabolism, energy levels, athletic ability and enjoyment, food preferences and eating styles. Environment is a strong predictor of eating and activity behaviours.

It is within those contexts - one's genes and environment - that one engages in "self-regulation" of weight.  One chooses to be thinner, healthier, better, and then enacts strategies to achieve the goal, but the outcome of such goals, intentions and strategies are indirectly determined by genetics and environment. 

Here is where the capacity for self-awareness is important.  An individual like our middle aged gentleman can become conscious of his body and mind and environment, and start using this consciousness to guide a process of change and self-transformation. Small choices can gradually modify physiology, mental programming and social situations, creating new habits and a new lifestyle.

It truly does start with his choice, to make the change.  The rest is history!

Stephen Stotland, Ph.D.