'I'm depressed about gaining weight...'

Dear Diana

Dear Diana,
I have been with my guy for four years. In the last two years, I have been gaining a lot of weight. When I first met him, I wasn't fat. But now, I wear XXL size. I feel like a whale. I am so ashamed of myself. He is thin so we are referred to as Laurel and Hardy. I don't like going out or being around people anymore because I compare myself to everyone. Instead, I prefer to stay at home. Ever since, I began working two years ago, I have been having meals at erratic timings. I eat mostly fast food which has played havoc with my body. My lunch has mostly been French fries and burgers. I'm constantly complaining and breaking down. I know that my guy is perturbed by my weight gain. Though he does not tell me, he has given me adequate hints to shape up. At this rate, I think I will end up losing him. What do I do?
- Ramiya


Illustration/Amit Bandre

Dear Ramiya,
It looks like you let yourself go berserk and are now paying the price for it. You need to take care of your health. First, you need to be medically examined to be ascertained if your rapid gain is due to excessive binging or other reasons. It could be due to thyroid or water retention issues. This only a doctor can tell you. Meanwhile, you need to urgently follow a healthy lifestyle. Stop binging on burgers and fries. Carry food from home or order for a tiffin service. You can carry healthy snacks if you feel hungry in between meals. Once you have been medically tested, you can consult a nutritionist who can draw out a diet chart for you. Try and include some form of exercise in your daily regime. Most importantly, get it in your head that you can knock off the inches and your guy sure will be happy to motivate you to lose weight.