What do you think about Before and After pictures? Are they appropriate for house remodels? I’m sure 100% would say yes. What about haircut/color/styling? Again, I’ll bet 100% would agree.
But, what about Mommy makeovers? And what about women who lose weight?
Back in 2012 I founded a weight management program called “Menu for Change” that ran until 2019. I closed the program not because it wasn’t working (many cried when it ended) but because a national insurance company was in the process of buying my clinic out and I didn’t want it to be corrupted.
This program helped women (and a few men) with weight management, although it gradually morphed into a robust wellness program. On day one women would have their weight recorded, among many other metrics. There was much discussion about whether or not to have body photos taken upon starting the program. I ultimately decided not to take photos and everyone agreed.
As women advanced through the program, their focus gradually shifted. Instead of dreading stepping on the scale (and they didn’t have to if they didn’t want to), they started tracking other things: energy, mood, sleep, movement, and nutrition, to name a few. Yes, weight too, but it quickly became just another metric and not the main focus.
Success was measured not just in pounds lost (although many were excited to achieve just that) but in improvement of energy, mood, sleep, etc. It was gratifying to celebrate the myriad successes, large and small alike.
And, so, my vote is “no” when it comes to before and after pictures with respect to women working on weight management. Let’s raise up women for ALL their successes! This is especially important during challenging times—such as before, during and after menopause.
For more on body image, enjoy reading the July edition of The 2 Susans. You also may enjoy a lecture I gave in 2022 “What I’ve Learned From Running a Weight-Management and Wellness Program for 7 Years.”
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Susan J. Baumgaertel, MD is an internal medicine physician who provides telemedicine medical consultation and advocacy support for patients in WA state. Find her at myMDadvocate.
Her new book, The Menopause Menu, is an all-in-one giftbook, medical guide and recipe book for navigating menopause.