Do you struggle with “ghost fat”?

For those of you who have followed me for a while, you’ll know that I was an overweight child.

You might also know that I still struggle with feeling overweight.

Well, I learned something new today. Because it turns out, there’s a term for that…

“Ghost fat.”

Let’s explore this together…

Sift through the misconceptions

First, let me be clear: It’s been years since I’ve had issues with my weight. And I’m happy with my appearance and all the health benefits I have gained.

(Sadly, that’s not the case for everyone. Some people feel dissatisfied with their body no matter what they do.)

That doesn’t mean I don’t have moments where I still feel overweight, though.

It’s hard to describe. But apparently, it’s common enough that the condition coined the term ghost fat. (It’s also known as phantom fat or vestigial body image.)

And in my view, this topic couldn’t be timelier.

See, we now have two successful ways to combat obesity—GLP-1 agonist drugs (like Ozempic) and bariatric surgery (read more in my monthly newsletter, Logical Health Alternatives, by clicking here).

Meaning more and more people may be struggling with “ghost fat.”

Of course, body image misperception can happen for a variety of reasons (not just weight loss). After all, the brain takes time to process these changes.

Not to mention—your ideal body image is influenced by your ethnic, racial, and cultural background. And you can struggle with these feelings at ANY age. (Sadly, it’s reaching younger and younger generations.)

Plus, there’s a ton of external noise. It takes time to overcome enduring the stigma of your weight, for one. Because despite the fact that we’re dealing with an obesity epidemic, those who are overweight or obese often feel a sense of negativity.

Some might be labeled lazy or having a lack of will power. All while the media (and social media) glorify being thin.

Put yourself first

I have treated overweight and obese people for decades. I notice all kinds of things, including how excess weight can be used as a protective mechanism for some.

Moreover, some people simply get caught up in what they know—meaning losing weight brings about change that could make you feel vulnerable. Plus, adjusting to a new life—and a new way that people perceive you—can be quite difficult.

For my weight-loss patients, I have started to recommend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). And if you’re struggling with your weight—or with feelings of “ghost fat”—I encourage you to give it a try, too.

I truly believe this can help you navigate your “new world,” including relationships with food AND your peers.

One final thought before I go…

Remember that being thin doesn’t translate to happiness. You have to figure out how to align your inner thoughts with your body image in order to fully benefit from the positive outcome of achieving and maintaining a healthy weight—including improved mood and reduced risk of chronic disease.

Source:

“Ghost Fat: The Unseen Consequences of Weight Loss.” Medscape, 10/07/2024. (medscape.com/viewarticle/ghost-fat-unseen-consequences-weight-loss-2024a1000iax)