Obesity and poor health know no prejudice and have no bounds, says the brave author of this book, Laura Dion- Jones. But being obese is just plain unhealthy. A black-run skier until a serious accident interrupted her life, she started to pile on weight as her leg was gradually repaired. While not a binge eater or a glutton, she got sick of being large; of being constantly sick and tired in 'a food induced coma'. Tired of disparaging remarks and 'beyond mortified' by what people said of a successful, intelligent, attractive woman when all they saw was her 317 pound weight.

COMMIT TO GET FIT says Laura. Thyroid and glandular issues can be treated with medication. In her own case, her pancreas produced insulin in an over-reaction to any kind of carbohydrate and the insulin prompted her body to store fat. She needed to take on a different diet and a different exercise regimen; a whole different persona. She needed to be responsible for every bite she took and every step she took. This book explains her methods and encourages others to follow in her lighter footsteps.

I was shocked and amused by some of the anecdotes Laura tells of the steps she took before dieting; from psychoanalysis to attempting to have gastric band surgery, and Weight Watchers which still allowed her the complex carbs that turned out to be causing her harm. The time and cost alone makes being overweight a major issue. There was no quick fix. I also found it fascinating to look at the attitudes expressed by people who don't want to change enough to change. The statistics quoted are in journalist Michael Moss's book 'Salt Sugar Fat' and both authors agree that the 'big food' and media industries are responsible for pushing unhealthy food onto consumers. If there was no profit in sugar-laden breakfast cereal, or sweet fizzy drinks, how many advertisements for them would you see?

Laura explains how to change. Low-fat diets she tried did not work for her. A modified, lower-fat Atkins diet with portion control suited her system, but a walk which increased to five or six miles daily was what threw off the pounds. Make better choices and set goals, she learned. Take control. Weigh yourself daily. Take a walk instead of stuffing yourself. Food is not love; if you bake, use healthier ingredients. She reinforces her message with brief quotes from many inspiring figures.

Laura Dion-Jones was a top plus-sized model prior to her skiing accident, and she designs clothing. She is a motivational speaker, TV and radio host and wellness coach. If you need inspiration and convincing to lose some encumbrance, improve your health and prolong your life, this book COMMIT TO GET FIT should be at the top of your list. Laura adds, "I'm a healthier, happier, leaner, less encumbered, and more beautiful person these days. And I wouldn't go back to being that fat for all the tea in Taiwan."