Michael has been diagnosed with prediabetes.

Michael has been diagnosed with prediabetes. His doctor informed…

 

Michael has been diagnosed with prediabetes. His doctor informed him that he needs to adopt a healthier lifestyle, and one of the more immediate changes needed is losing weight.

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes

If you have prediabetes, losing a small amount of weight if you’re overweight and getting regular physical activity can lower your risk for developing type 2 diabetes. A small amount of weight loss means around 5% to 7% of your body weight, just 10 to 14 pounds for a 200-pound person.

Michael is worried as his previous attempts to lose weight by dieting have met with little success.

He knows that he should stick to healthier dietary options such as consuming more fruits and vegetables, but often loses out to temptation by binging on junk food instead.

Why is it so difficult to stick to our diet? Why would Michael choose the immediate pay-off over the long-term outcome?

In your answer and using the principles of instrumental conditioning, also present viable options to Michael to curb his junk food consumption.