adminViewers watch them as they go through their weight loss regimen, which includes athletics, gymnastics as well as foregoing certain foods and avoiding eating some in excess. This, of course, has become the health trend in most Western countries to shed off calories.
However, in most African countries, people have the misconception that gaining a lot of weight is associated with good life, wealth and good health. But United States-based Zimbabwean gospel music diva Mai Shingisai Suluma has realised the side-effects of excess weight and has started what she calls “The Slimming Project”.
To those who know the diva from her shows and videos, you might be surprised to see her new-look after having gone through a rigorous weight-loss exercise. According to her, weight loss is a matter of choice and commitment, but will yield the desired results if one remains focused. One can face discouragement from other people who think weight-loss is a waste of time.
“Everyone who has ever tried to lose weight knows that one of the greatest battles they fight is discouragement. Diets are always being criticised as being ineffective. When I started a low-fat diet, I stayed on it until it became a way of life.
“You, too, can make a similar choice and find a way to a healthier future. I pray that you be successful and healthy, in the same way you are spiritually,” she posted on her Facebook page.
It is believed that her project has changed other people’s lives with positive results. Hundreds of people who were inspired by the diva’s initiative have lauded her efforts on her Facebook page.
Her slimming project should also be useful to some people in Zimbabwe who regard excess weight as a sign of prestige. “I learnt a great deal from Mai Suluma’s slimming project because I am one of those people who thought excess weight was a sign of good living. That is not always the case. I urge other people out there to emulate our sister,” said Barbara Munetsi of Harare.
Excess weight, or obesity, according to the Healthguide.Org, has been linked to over 50 health problems ranging from heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and certain cancers and gout among others. “Perhaps even more compelling is the strong link between excess weight and depression, because this common mood disorder can have a profound, negative impact on your daily life.
“Obesity increased the risk of diabetes 20 times and substantially boosted the risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and gallstones,” reads the Healthguide.Org. If one follows this closely, one will realise that the majority of Zimbabweans who are obese suffer from one or a cocktail of these health problems. This is caused by lack of exercise and failing to observe one’s proper diet. However, the gospel diva is doing great in the foreign land as she is continuing to raise the country’s flag high.
Online Reporter