It took several painful years, but John DeGennaro, a 42-year-old truck driver from North Branfield, Connecticut, discovered that a simple anti-drug slogan is as effective for weight loss as it is for substance abuse.
Addicted to cocaine, alcohol, and nicotine, John joined Alcoholics Anonymous in 1994. Two years of hard work later, with support from both professionals and friends, he was clean.
When John stopped using, though, he noticed that food tasted better. How much better? Within a few short months, he gained 60 pounds. He was carrying 232 pounds on his 5-foot, 2-inch frame.
Unhappy, John sought help from a dietitian, who taught him how to make wiser food choices. It didn’t help. John’s problem was much bigger: He realized that he had become addicted to food. “Once I started eating, I couldn’t stop,” he says. “If I was offered a doughnut at a customer’s office, I’d not only eat two more, but I’d hit every doughnut shop along my route.”
Then he remembered: He had stayed clean from his drug ad-
dictions by avoiding places where drugs were available. He could do the same with food.
When John would drop off his packages, instead of sticking around, he would get back in his truck. It was simple, but it worked.
John made other lifestyle changes that helped him control his food addiction and take off those unwanted pounds. Once again, he sought help from a dietitian—but this time, he successfully cut his fat intake and weaned himself off his favorite junk foods. He also launched an exercise program that consisted of brisk walking as well as stretching and toning exercises. “It took a lot of discipline to stick with it, but I had a lot of support from my friends,” he says.
Within 2 years, the extra pounds—67 of them—melted away. Today, John maintains his weight at 165 pounds. He wouldn’t mind losing a few more, but he’s not worried. He knows he can just say no to food.
WINNING ACTION
Steer clear of food pushers. If colleagues offer you baked goods, graciously decline. Also, try to limit your time in break rooms and other common areas where cakes, cookies, and other temptations lurk. Sometimes, proximity beats the toughest willpower!
*65\89\8*
