By Dr. Rick Tague
The Real Answer May Surprise You
I usually ask patients why they think they’re overweight. Too often the answer is predictable. “I don’t have self-control.” Or, “I’m too lazy to exercise.” The fact is that overweight individuals are typical of all Americans. 95% of Americans do not exercise regularly, even though everyone is aware of the benefits.
So, not exercising is not the cause of obesity. Otherwise, 95% of Americans would be obese! And, I’ve never seen any research to support the notion that overweight individuals suffer from a lack of “self-control”. They tend to be successful in their careers, their families, and in their personal lives. After treating thousands* of patients, I have not seen that lack of self control is any more common in overweight individuals.