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[Guest guest]

Hi-

 

I'm hoping to appeal to this wise group for some

advice and support. First some background

information... I am currently about 25 pounds

overweight, all due to excess post babyweight. I also

have high cholesterol (when I say high, I mean high

320 total!), which is not controlled by the standard

diet and exercise. I am working with a fantastic

cardiologist, who has been patient with me to find the

right treatment for me (and yes, he strongly supports

and encourages a vegetarian diet). Pre-baby I was

very fit (ran marathons, did triathlons, etc.) I have

never had a weight problem before, so this is

extremely difficult for me. I am working with an

exercise physiologist and nutritionist to see if there

is anything more I can do. With that said, recently

at a company Christmas party, a rather rude person

inquired why I didn't just start eating meat again,

because it certainly wasn't helping my cholesterol or

weight. Suddenly I felt like I was a poster person

for vegetarianism, and I was setting a horrible

example of the benefits of such a lifestyle. Yes, I

am a little overweight and have high cholesterol, I

know deep down that my choice is the right choice.

Maybe it was that I was embarrassed for myself (my

self-image has definitely dropped, and I am sensitive

about my appearance), or maybe I am tired of getting

teased, harassed, or inundated with questions about my

choice of lifestyle...but this person’s comments

really affected me. I know, I know, I should just be

like a duck and let the water roll off my back.

 

I am normally a rather quiet, compassionate person,

and most people who know me would say I am very

tolerant to other people’s comments and opinions.

Mostly I let people make their statements and simply

listen and nod, but I don’t want to sit by quietly

anymore. I am ready to take a stand, and I just need

to arm myself with good responses...especially since I

don't look like the stereotypical vegetarian.

 

I am open to any words of encouragement or advice.

 

Warm regards,

 

Karen

 

 

 

 

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