Great advice at BOT weekly sessions

‘DIETS Don’t Work’ was the intriguing title of a talk given by Dr Gitte Wieneke at the Monday meeting of Bantry Operation Transformation.

Lots of things happen at the 5.30pm to 6.45pm meetings at the Westlodge Hotel, including free weigh-ins, health talks, fitness classes, and the presentation of stickers for activities accomplished.

This week, Dr Wieneke, a local GP and BOT team member, explained why diets don’t work; what to do to get out of the yoyo dieting cycle; and how to enjoy a healthier, happier lifestyle. 

Dr Wieneke said she sees in her everyday practice what modern diets and a lack of exercise are doing to people’s health. 

‘Even a modest weight loss of 5%,’ she said, ‘can have huge health benefits. Weight loss can lead to a significant reduction in the risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or the development of diabetes and some cancers. It also improves lung function and arthritis. And healthier food choices will have you feeling a lot better in no time.’

Ray Minehane, owner of RPM Gym, led this week’s fitness class and put the ‘BOT’ participants through their paces in the hotel ballroom.

Qualified Health and Wellness Coach and BOT team member, Síle Ní Chéidigh, also told the 100-plus participants how to stay motivated.

She told The Southern Star: ‘I decided to get involved with BOT because it is a positive and supportive event that brings the whole community together. 

‘And my brief, each week, is to give people the tools and techniques to make and maintain a positive, healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.’

One BOT participant, Maureen Arundel, paid tribute to the inspirational team behind the Bantry initiative, saying: ‘I now feel I can make healthier food choices. I’ve learnt a lot by taking part and I am working at putting the advice into action.’

Other BOT participant, John Flynn, said the meetings, especially the talks at the Healthy Living Corner, help him to focus on healthy eating. 

‘Last week’s talk about sugar was a real eye opener, so I am reducing my intake,’ he said.

The team behind the Healthy Eating Corner (HLC) is issuing a challenge to every Southern Star reader to get involved and switch to a healthier lifestyle. 

If you are not sure how to start, Síle recommended that you ‘talk to your GP, come to the HLC talks, we’d love to meet you, or check out the HLC blogs on the Active Bantry Facebook page for ideas.’