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Turner: Addiction wastes time, energy and money

Rebecca Turner

“Addicted? No, that’s not me, I just struggle a little with weight,” you are probably thinking. Let’s explore the situation with an open mind. If lifestyle choices that consist of regularly choosing unhealthy foods or being physical inactive has led to a chronic disease (heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes), then there is potential that an addiction is not being addressed.

People with clinical addictions can’t control themselves; put themselves and others in danger, and waste valuable time, energy, money and resources to meet their cravings.

You know you should drink more water. Sugar-sweetened beverages (soda, tea, juices) are the first thing your doctor and dietitian warn you about. Yet, you continue to purchase them for the home, in the restaurant, and carry a chip on your shoulder that you shouldn’t have to “give up” what you enjoy.

You’d love to “eat healthier” but your life moves at a fast speed so fast food is your only option, you believe. The smell of those crunchy, salty fries makes your mouth water. “I’ll try the salad next time,” you promise yourself. Next time you make the same promise.

Addictions are defined as a condition that results when a person ingests a substance or engages in an activity that can be pleasurable but the continued use becomes compulsive and interferes with ordinary life responsibilities, relationships or health.

I get it; the acute or immediate consequences a poor diet and sedentary lifestyle carry are nowhere comparable to those with a drug or alcohol dependence. But, I will argue that the long-term penalties and mental dysfunction that an unrecognized addiction to unhealthy foods and inactivity brings to a person and family are not much different.

Premature death due to preventable or manageable diseases robs you of quality time with kids. When your body doesn’t get the nutrition it craves to maintain health, energy to be productive and pursue your passions is lost. Money spent on doctor visits, medications and missed days of work all linked to what you eat and how little you move is futile.

Time, energy and money are wasted.

As with any addiction there is hope. No addiction or unhealthy lifestyle is stronger than who you want to be. Though it may feel that way, it can only win if you let it. We all stand between two worlds: our current situation and our optimal situation. The power is fully in your hands. What will you choose?

Rebecca Turner, MS RD CSSD is a local nutrition expert and runner. Health is a choice. #ChooseHealthy Download her free App. Search Rebecca Turner Nutrition in your App Store.