Bennett: Weight never defines us
Losing kilos isn’t sure-fire key to happiness, says Nats’ deputy
National Party deputy leader Paula Bennett has talked candidly about losing weight and urged people struggling with body image not to let size determine who they are as people.
Bennett shed 50kg after a gastric bypass operation a year ago.
The Upper Harbour MP said: “One of the most important things is I’ve always been comfortable in my own skin no matter what size I am.
“I understand the struggle of weight loss but I want those that are going through the struggle to know they are beautiful and significant and can be confident. Weight loss isn’t the answer to happiness.
“I’m reluctant to give advice because I’m not a medical professional and I believe it’s a very personal journey that will work for some and won’t work for others.”
The 49-year-old said she had worked to keep the kilos off. However, it did not come without its challenges.
“Working out how much you can eat and what the right foods are for your new body and new stomach have been the biggest challenges.
“It does limit the types of food you can eat and it changes. Just when you think you’ve nailed it your body says ‘no I don’t like that any more’ or it’ll go ‘I like this better’.
“It’s the same as any diet. Good, fresh food feels good for me
. . . eating too much makes me feel unwell.
“I’m not on any particular diet, I’ve just used trial and error. I didn’t want to restrict so much that I’m not enjoying life. I found out I can still have a glass or two of wine, which is very important.
“You can still have treats from time to time but protein is my friend. Eating protein first makes me feel good and is good for my body and has been the answer for me.
“I’ve got arthritis in my knees and feet and taking some of the weight off them has meant I’m in less pain.”
Bennett hasn’t just noticed a change in her health since losing 50kg. Everyday activities are a lot more enjoyable and booking seats on a plane no longer carries any issues.
“I definitely take up less room. I’m more comfortable in a plane seat and can certainly get around faster because I’m not lugging an extra 50kg.
“But I have to admit shopping has been a lot more enjoyable since I’ve slimmed down! That’s definitely one of the more enjoyable aspects of this journey.”
A year ago Bennett went public with the gastric bypass procedure through the Herald on Sunday, talking about the health reasons for the operation and saying she hoped talking about it would encourage others.
“I hope it sends a positive message out there to other people with weight or health problems that this may be a solution for them,” she said in an exclusive interview.
Bennett joined a list of political high-flyers who have undergone variations of gastric surgery, including former PMs Dame Jenny Shipley and David Lange, current MP Anne Tolley and ex-MPs Dame Tariana Turia, Chester Borrows, Marama Fox and Donna Awatere Huata.