Personality Plays Role in Body Weight, According to Study

July 18, 2011- American Psychological Association

Impulsivity strongest predictor of obesity

WASHINGTON—People with personality traits of high neuroticism and low conscientiousness are likely to go through cycles of gaining and losing weight throughout their lives, according to an examination of 50 years of data in a study published by the American Psychological Association.

Impulsivity was the strongest predictor of who would be overweight, the researchers found. Study participants who scored in the top 10 percent on impulsivity weighed an average of 22 lbs. more than those in the bottom 10 percent, according to the study.

“Individuals with this constellation of traits tend to give in to temptation and lack the discipline to stay on track amid difficulties or frustration,” the researchers wrote. “To maintain a healthy weight, it is typically necessary to have a healthy diet and a sustained program of physical activity, both of which require commitment and restraint. Such control may be difficult for highly impulsive individuals.”

The researchers, from the National Institute on Aging, looked at data from a longitudinal study of 1,988 people to determine how personality traits are associated with weight and body mass index. Their conclusions were published online in the APA’s Journal of Personality and Social Psychology®.

The remainder of the article can be found at http://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2011/07/personality-weight.aspx

How to stop all or nothing thinking

Stopping negative all or nothing thinking is tricky and will take some time. One technique is to use a phrase, saying, devotion or prayer to redirect your thoughts and move forward in a positive way. Below is a devotional from Fit for the King by T. Hundley that was brought to my attention and may be helpful.

"Father as I take my first steps on the road to physical and spiritual fitness, I pray that You will order my steps. I thank You for bringing me to this point in my life. I accept the fact that my way has failed and I sincerely need Your help. I pray that You will continue to guide and direct my path today and always."