Why are so many of us over weight?

[sarahhoughton]

If we are supposed to be good role models when it comes to health, why is it that so many of us are overweight? I'm just a student, so I don't know much, but I want to know what everyone else thinks about this!! Is it because there is no time to exercise with 12 hours shifts, and no time to find healthy food because there are such short lunch breaks? These are what I am guessing, but I want to know from real nurses why all of y'all think so many of your co-workers are overweight. (I don't mean to offend anyone with this post!!) Just curious!! Thanks for any opinions you have.

[HappyJaxRN]

Every time we have this conversation, I refine my thinking on the subject. My current thinking includes:

It may be that some of the same emotional background that drives us to choose a caring profession also drives some of else to overeat

It may be that some of us internalize the stress of our jobs by overeating

It may be that some of us are deeply disillusioned and embittered that the profession for which they trained turned out not to be the profession in which they are able to practice, thanks to changes in the way health care is funded and delivered. Just could be, mind you, not like I'd know anything about that...

We do work odd hours, and some of us probably tend to eat more during these odd shifts than we might during non-traditional hours

It is very difficult for some to exercise after a long shift of a physically demanding job

We are people, subject to the same temptations as everyone else

Um, I lied. I have to respond. I agree. I agree. Thanks for being sensitive in your post. Um, whatever happened to being overweight related to hormonal imbalances? Um, okay...it's a long stretch, for me anyway...but I'm thinking, some people may be overweight for medical reasons as well, other than not being able to exercise. But I agree with you....just pondering the idea...

[Ted]

well. . .

this one thread generated many, many reported posts from quite a few different members for many different reasons. we're closing this thread for a time out. it may or may not be re-opened. one thing is for sure, though, this topic will appear again. when it does, we hope that the posting will remain civil and respectful.