Sunday, February 7, 2010

Would You Like Fries With That?

What is the matter with Americans and their diet today? It seems that people no longer care for their long-term health and are only considered with satiating their doughnut cravings.
One of the problems of modern nutrition is the lack of education. Most people are unaware of precisely what is entering their body at any given moment. It seems common knowledge that one should not eat more than what they need, and if you stay within reason of the 2,000 calorie diet, then you are in the clear. However, this is not the case by any means. People in the general public seem unaware of the necessary nutritional needs of the human body. Yes, fats are necessary, but in moderation. White bread is a simple carbohydrate and turns directly into simple sugars. It practically serves no purpose for you or your body. Now, I understand that people want to enjoy what they eat, but there are so many healthy alternatives. Unfortunately, as a society we are constantly eating simple carbs, sugar-filled soft drinks, and saturated fats. It is no wonder that obesity is such an issue with adults and youth alike. What are we going to do about this? Heart disease, obesity, diabetes, cancer, and many other health issues are all related in some way to diet and nutrition.
Now, I understand that it is difficult to look at a menu and try to choose the grilled chicken over the juicy burger. Or the vegetable medley over the French fries. But the bottom line is that health is an investment. You must approach it as a long-term deal if you want to be healthy in later years. If your input nutrition is beneficial, the likelihood of prosperous health in later years is quite high. It is an investment that is well worth the cost and discipline.
My grandmother is 79 years of age and she still goes out every morning at the crack of dawn to exercise. I know she sounds like she is in peak health, but she was not always that way. Approximately twelve years ago, my grandmother suffered a very serious heart attack. She was not watching her diet well and heart issues are hereditary. Fortunately she managed to survive and every since she has managed her dietary intake to perfection. If only we all had this kind of discipline.
We should not need a major life-threatening occurrence to serve as our wake-up call. Now is the time to realize that health is the most important thing we possess. I propose that people begin researching and finding more healthy alternatives. Search for creative recipes and manage food intake by reading the nutrition facts on food products. Also, exercise and physical activity are imperative for sufficient health. Join a fitness club, walk your animal, play a sport. Just do something to get your heart going. Everyone needs a break from the daily grinds of life and this time could not be better spent than by exercising and taking care of oneself. Trust me, this problem is unnecessary and can be solved. Motivation, learning, and commitment are the key.

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