DEAR HARRIETTE: My husband and I have been about the same size since we got married, more than 20 years ago. I have gained quite a bit of weight. We have a scale that talks. I heard my husband weigh himself and, to my horror, I heard he weighs less than I do.
I know I have to do something to get my weight under control. I’m too embarrassed to talk to him about it. My husband has been so disciplined over the years with exercise and diet. I can’t bear getting a lecture from him. But I do need to take action to get my body together. What do you recommend? -- Overweight, Milwaukee
DEAR OVERWEIGHT: You don’t have to talk about your weight. Action is the most important step. Start by going to your doctor to get a physical. Learn whether you have any serious health concerns that need to be addressed. Ask if you should see a nutritionist. This health professional can help you to manage your diet, which is key to losing weight.
Start moving your body every single day. The easiest free thing you can do is walk. Get some good walking shoes or sneakers and start your day a little earlier so you can walk. Start off slowly, going as far as is comfortable. Build up to 10,000 steps, about 5 miles. Get a pedometer of some kind to track your movement.