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Marc Giauque reportingIf you had to choose between losing a job and gaining 75 pounds what would you do? A survey suggests most Americans would rather look for a job than lose weight.
Deborah Peterson knows what's it's like to be significantly overweight.
Deborah Peterson: "It really impacts every facet of your life."
Peterson even avoided social situations.
Deborah Peterson: "I wasn't comfortable in my own skin. There were many, many things I didn't participate in that my weight held me back from that I've regretted. You know making contact with childhood friends that were in town that I hadn't seen for years and made some excuse why I couldn't go."
Now 101 pounds lighter, she agrees with more than half of those who tell Fitness Magazine they'd rather lose a job.. than gain 75 pounds.
Deborah Peterson: "I can see why someone would feel that way...again because I know the journey that it takes."
A journey many would rather not.
"I'd definitely say I'd rather lose the job or find a new job."
"I'd rather gain the weight it would be easier to lose. Jobs are a bit fickle than weight."
"I'm just a little bit more health conscience so I think it be easier to pick up another job than lose the weight."
Weight Watchers Salt Lake Executive Director Gina Williford isn't surprised. She says significant, long-term weight loss, probably is more difficult, and to some more daunting, than finding a new job.
Gina Williford "For what ever reason as a society that just scares us because it's not quick, it's not pretty."
But Peterson says it goes far beyond looks.
Deborah Peterson: "You don't have to pop a pill, you don't have to drink a drink. You just make some great choices and you look great that's wonderful but you also feel wonderful."
Speaking of how people feel, the Fitness survey says only a few men and women would actually skip a high school reunion because of their weight, and most would still go on a date. And the poll says there are some things most would not trade for a lot of extra pounds. Fewer than a quarter of respondents would trade the perfect body for 20 IQ points.
