Embarking on a weight loss journey can be a challenging endeavor, often requiring not only physical discipline but also mental and spiritual fortitude. Many individuals find solace and strength in their faith, seeking guidance and support from religious figures. While there isn't a single, officially designated "patron saint of weight loss," several saints are associated with related aspects such as healing, self-control, and overcoming temptation. Additionally, practical strategies like mindful eating, intermittent fasting, and seeking support can complement one's spiritual journey towards better health.
Saints Who Can Offer Support
Although no saint has been officially delegated as a patron for dieters, it is possible to choose a saint with similar interests or life situation and pray to him for that intention. Some possibilities include:
- St. Charles Borromeo: He is popularly invoked as a patron saint of stomach ailments and also of obesity and dieting. These patronages - and whether or not he was himself obese - are not mentioned in hagiographies of St. Charles, so it’s unclear how this particular association began. St. Charles Borromeo, whose feast day the Catholic Church celebrates Nov. 4, was a cardinal and a prominent teacher of the Catholic faith. Charles was a central figure in the Council of Trent (1545-1563), which among other things served as the Church’s official answer to the Protestant Reformation. As a papal representative, Charles participated in the council's conclusion in 1563, when he was only 25, and was ordained a priest during the council. Charles’ uncle, Pope Pius IV, appointed him archbishop of Milan in 1563, and soon after he became a cardinal. He found his diocese in a state of disintegration, after two generations of virtually no local administration or leadership. Charles got straight to work establishing schools, seminaries, and centers for religious life. While bishop of Milan, St. Charles oversaw many dramatic and effective reforms of the clergy, the liturgy, and of religious education. In 1571, the region where Charles was working suffered a severe famine, during which he worked tirelessly to help the starving, supporting at his own expense as many as 3,000 people daily for three months. A few years later, a plague struck Milan. He died young at the age of 46 on Nov. 3, 1584.
- St. Michael the Archangel: As a patron against temptation, Michael is particularly helpful for those who diet, as temptation is a terrible thing and strikes in unanticipated circumstances.
- St. Martha: Known for her hospitality, she is a patron of dietitians (although not dieters).
- St. Raphael the Archangel: His name means “God heals.”
- St. Thomas Aquinas: Believed to have been a large man, he might have empathy for a dieter.
- St. Catherine of Siena: At periods in her life, she survived on the Eucharist alone.
- St. Anthony of Padua: A patron of starving people.
- Blessed Margaret Ebner: She often gave up food in abstinence and fasting, following the example of St. Bernard of Clairvaux. For neither was the refrain from eating a simple refusal, but rather an attempt to partake of only what was needed to survive.
- St. Agnes: While St. Agnes is the patron saint of gardeners, this fourth century Roman saint has a cookie recipe named after her, “Agnesenplatzchen,” or “St. Agnes cookies.” Agnes was martyred at the age of 13 after refusing an offer of marriage due to her commitment to Christianity.
The Importance of Temperance and Self-Control
Throughout our lives as Catholic Christians, we are encouraged to practice temperance. Temperance pertains to all creature comforts and allows us to empty ourselves in preparation for being filled with God and His presence. Caring for our bodies - temples of the Holy Spirit - enables us to participate in a tangible way. Our temporary discomforts become a path to finding the importance of our focus on Eternity. Temperance is the moral virtue that moderates the attraction of pleasures and provides balance in the use of created goods. It ensures the will’s mastery over instincts and keeps desires within the limits of what is honorable. Fortitude is the moral virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in the pursuit of the good.
Practical Steps for a Healthier Lifestyle
Beyond seeking spiritual guidance, adopting practical strategies can significantly contribute to a successful weight loss journey.
- Ketogenic (Keto) Approach: Aided by the witness of Jimmy Akin’s diet blog post, some have locked onto the Ketogenic (Keto) approach. The difference this makes is measurable on the scale and in health reports.
- Intermittent Fasting: Another facet of a new lifestyle is the practice of intermittent fasting. This can be accomplished in varying ways. One method is the 8/16 regimen - an eight hour window of eating followed by 16 hours of fasting. Considering that you already fast for the eight hours while you sleep at night, this is an easy approach. Fasting is also a proven spiritual option. The mental clarity that comes from abstaining from food provides an unmatched sense of mental clarity.
Finding Strength in Faith and Community
Many individuals find strength in their faith and the support of their religious community during their weight loss journey.
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- Prayer and Intercession: Seeking the intercession of saints, such as St. Charles Borromeo, can provide comfort and encouragement.
- Community Support: Connecting with others who share similar struggles and goals can foster a sense of accountability and motivation.
Overcoming Challenges and Maintaining Focus
The weight loss journey is often fraught with challenges, including temptation, setbacks, and feelings of discouragement.
- Recognizing and Addressing Temptation: Temptation strikes in unanticipated circumstances, making it crucial to develop strategies for managing cravings and avoiding triggers.
- Learning from Setbacks: Viewing setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth can help maintain a positive mindset and prevent discouragement.
- Focusing on Long-Term Goals: Keeping the long-term benefits of a healthier lifestyle in mind can provide motivation to persevere through difficult times.
- Willpower: Willpower is also a necessity. Without the proper motivation and corresponding action, this too will fail.
The Kitchen as a Sacred Space
These days, however, if you’re not eating take-out or dining in a restaurant, (where, incidentally, St. Martha would be the patron saint of your server,) you are likely to be preparing your food in a kitchen. If you doubt your prowess to prepare the “eats” skillfully, or question the talents of your designated chef, then St. Benedict is your go-to saint. St. Benedict is indirectly associated with Benedictine, the herbal liqueur with alleged stomach-calming properties, but more importantly, he is the saint who keeps folks safe from food poisoning.
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