“Obese people are not overeating, they are just sick”. This notion is being widely reported due to interesting findings out of Louisiana State University. There would seem to be SOME correlation between about one third of obese individuals and a unique, cold-like virus known as AD-36. This virus appears to work against overweight individuals in two ways. First, it speeds up the rate at which new fat cells are produced. Secondly, fat cells infected with this virus appear to be capable of being “fatter” than non-infected cells. These are the facts that have been widely reported. In order to appreciate what this really means to those attempting to lose weight, further investigation is required.

One detail escaping the news networks and others, who have reported about this study, is that 11% of people in the “lean” population tested were also infected with the suspect AD-36. Researchers have not been able to explain why one group gains weight and the other does not when infected with, admittedly, the same “fat” virus. This may indicate that the virus is an anomaly and not actually the primary mitigating factor in weight gain. More research is necessary before this conclusion can be drawn, of course, but perhaps the weight of the person prior to infection is important to consider.

Another point to ponder is that if one third of obese persons are infected, then fully two thirds are not. This point should strike home for those trying to lose weight. You have only a 1 in 3 chance of having a virus to blame and expensive tests will be required before you will know for sure. If you do find out, there is no cure and no miracle “prescription” for the treatment of overweight. Eat less, exercise more, and reduce stress. These are the best options for weight loss regardless of any medical condition you may be facing.

If these theories and assertions seem harsh and uncaring, that is not the intention. The fact is that where a person is today is where he/she is. The cause, in many cases, is irrelevant. In order to improve your health and fitness, it is important to accept what you weigh, eat, and do right now. Honestly assessing these factors is the first step to creating a plan to address them. If you are infected with this virus or facing another health problem with a weight gain side effect, your road to weight loss may be longer or more difficult than average, but it should be taken. You are still capable of improved health and wellness. If you are not infected but need to lose weight, it is still necessary to address nutrition, fitness, and attitude before improvements will begin. Blaming a virus is no different than blaming your mother and it gets you no where. Now you know!

(Source: SCW Fitness Newsletter 5/1/09 www.scwfittness.com)