Page 29 - Bulletin Vol 26 No 3 - Sept. - Dec. 2021 - FINAL 3 version (1)

Member Article |

Those Pesky Pandemic Pounds: My weight loss journey to a better me

By Fabiola Milord, DDS, MPH, FAGD, FACD

More often than not these days, I’m asked, “Oh, my God! What happened?” and “How did you do
it?” Some even thought I underwent bariatric surgery and liposuction! Before, I get to that, allow
me to first give you a little background. In the beginning...

As we were all home during those early days of the COVID-19 global pandemic in 2020, New York
State was put under a so-called “lockdown.” During that time and even beyond, business and
travel activity was limited in order to prevent spread of the Coronavirus. Sitting at home doing
nothing day in and day out grew into severe boredom. What else was there to do but eat, drink,
watch TV, and connect with others via Zoom – all while limiting physical activity? My diet consisted
of rice and chicken, chips, other snacks, and lots of wine and homemade cocktails. This is what I
describe as the beginning of those pesky pandemic pounds. I had already been struggling with my weight prior to
the pandemic. The pandemic did not help.

Not long after the lifting of many restrictions, I noticed my right knee was causing me some discomfort. This turned
into frank pain and limited mobility. Even lying down was problematic and my sleep was being affected. An MRI
and orthopedist visit later, in February of this year, I was diagnosed with chondromalacia – a form of arthritis. I was
given a steroid injection and prescribed physical therapy. I was informed that if these conservative measures were
not successful, I would have to undergo surgery.
As I was undergoing physical therapy, my knee began to feel better and I began to regain full function and mobility.
The pain started to abate. Life was good. In the back of my mind, however, I knew I still had a problem. Although
my symptoms abated, the arthritis had not gone away. Knowing and understanding the knee is a weight bearing
joint, for me to truly feel better and to avoid surgery, I had to make radical physical changes and take the weight off
the knee. Hence began my weight loss journey.
I decided to do intermittent fasting which seemed to be all the rage. I changed what I ate, and significantly
increased my physical activity. I remember my physical therapist stating, “If we can’t get rid of the arthritis, let’s at
least strengthen the muscles around the knee.” I would do weight bearing exercises, weight lifting, and cardio. I
spent hours at the gym and even spent time with a personal trainer. The result: a 38-pound weight loss and,
unfortunately, the need for a new wardrobe!
Currently, I am 15 pounds away from my weight loss goal. My story is not a unique one.

I hear from many friends and colleagues about their personal “wake-up call,” putting them on a health related
journey. It can be a difficult and lonely road. Often times you’ll be misunderstood. You’ll have setbacks and
mishaps. Keep your eye on the prize...a better you. Most notably, if I of all people can do this, ANYONE can do this.
Ultimately, it’s about what you’re willing to sacrifice in order to cross the finish line.
The last 15 pounds have been hard to get rid of. What used to work is not so easy anymore.
My body has adapted to my workout regimen and nutritional habits. I’ve had to double my
efforts to lose weight. Any suggestions on how to get past the hump? Let me know at
fmilordds@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you. In the meantime, for those of you facing
your own weight loss challenges, please know you are not alone. As the saying goes, “we’re all
in this together.” And of course, my best advice: Consult with your primary care provider
before beginning any weight loss regimen. Thank you for the many expressions of support and
encouragement. It is deeply appreciated. Stay tuned for more...

Nassau County Dental Society ⬧ (516) 227-1112 | 29