Why I Was Nicknamed “El Gordo” (Overcoming Obesity in My Childhood)

My journey with obesity began in Colombia, South America, where, at the age of 11, I was sent to live with my grandparents in a small town with a population of about 1,500. In Latin American culture, food and family gatherings play a central role. My grandmother’s way of showing love involved feeding me nearly every two hours.

Latin American Food and Weight Gain

Our typical day we started with a hearty breakfast at 7 a.m., featuring a long table full of meats, dairy products, and root vegetables from their farm. By 10 a.m., it was time for a snack made with milk, sugar, and homemade cookies. Lunch was even larger, consisting of rich, fatty soups and large portions of rice. The day, we continued with another snack at 3 p.m. and a substantial dinner, followed by one more snack before bed.

After two years of this routine, my weight had ballooned to nearly 250 pounds. When my parents moved me back to the city, I faced a harsh new reality. One of my father’s friends jokingly called me “El Gordo,” a term I didn’t understand but soon learned meant “The Fat One.” Returning to school, my old friends and classmates quickly adopted the nickname, amplifying my feelings of difference and isolation.

Dealing with Bullying Due to Obesity

In the city, there was another well-known “Gordo” from airline commercials, a symbol of size and discomfort. Unlike him, my weight made me a target for bullies. I was often harassed by groups of kids waiting for me after school. The experience was not just painful, but it also left me feeling isolated and different. Still, I faced it head-on rather than complain to my parents or teachers.

One day, confronted by four bullies, I found the courage to stand up for myself. Fueled by frustration and anger, I fought back, knocking one of the bullies to the ground and sending the others fleeing. From that day on, the bullying ceased, and I began to regain my confidence.

Soccer as a Path to Weight Loss

I had always been passionate about soccer, but my weight made participating difficult. Undeterred, I practiced kicking the ball in my garage and watched games obsessively. Eventually, an opportunity arose when a player’s absence allowed me to join a game as a goalkeeper. My performance was well-received, and I progressed to playing full matches over time. Soccer became not just a sport but a lifeline, a means to improve my physical health and manage my weight.

As I played more, my weight began to drop, and I noticed a decreased appetite, which I will discuss in future blogs. The increased physical activity from playing soccer led to a higher metabolic rate, which in turn reduced my appetite. This is a common effect of regular exercise, and it played a significant role in my weight loss journey. My commitment to soccer led to recognition as a skilled player, and eventually, a team owner invited me to join a new soccer team. This was a significant achievement for me, as I had started playing just for enjoyment.

Sharing My Experience as an Obesity Specialist

I share this story not only as a personal account but also as a doctor specializing in obesity. My experiences have profoundly shaped my understanding of obesity and weight management. In upcoming blogs, I will address the myths and scientific aspects of obesity to provide accurate and helpful information. It is crucial for individuals affected by obesity to have access to reliable knowledge to make informed decisions about their health.

• Dr. Carlos Mercado