Health & Fitness
The Paula Deen Debacle
The Southern cooking celebrity's recent diabetes disclosure overshadows the real culprit in the obesity debate -- American food culture.
Many would think that we are in the silly season for politics. However, in regard to our health, we are in a very sad season.
This past week the media and blogosphere were all-a-twitter either praising or demonizing Ms. Deen's decision to be a paid spokesperson for a Type 2 Diabetes drug. It's safe to assume that Ms. Deen's lifestyle choices - food, smoking, lack of exercise - have led to her disease. For anyone who errs on the side of genes, please note: Genes load the gun, but lifestyle pulls the trigger.
Rather than focus on Ms. Deen's lifestyle choices, diabetes, and ultimate decision to promote a diabetes drug, I'd rather focus on the American food culture. Because, she is just one spoke in our messed up wheel of a food culture.
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Here's just the tip of the iceberg. We have "hero" athletes pushing Oreos (Eli Manning, Shaq, and more), TV shows pushing Coke/Pepsi (Idol/X Factor), and a Main Street that is loaded with junk food. So, while Ms. Dean is a great scapegoat, she's just one of many problems existing with our food crisis.
In Georgia, we have a serious problem: Georgia is No. 2 in childhood obesity. Public health officials are very concerned. In fact, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta has an aggressive and controversial ad campaign to address the issue.
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While you can demonize its approach, you must praise its intention. Here's what Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and all health providers know. Diseases that are typically seen in adults - heart disease, Type 2 Diabetes, and others - are now being observed in very young patients.
Individually, we do have a choice:
- Maintain the status quo or
- Move toward healthier foods
If you choose the former, there's a good chance you will experience one or more of the diseases that the Western diet contribute to. By choosing the latter, you will be taking a step toward a healthier lifestyle.
Fortunately, there are many heroes in the battle to live a healthier lifestyle. I would like to introduce you to a few:
- Dr. David Katz - Here's an article that he has written - No Obese Child is an Island.
- Dr. Marion Nestle - You can follow her thoughful blog posts here.
- Andy Bellatti - Learn from a passionate dietitian.
There are many other wonderful people who are knowledgeable and passionate about lifestyle and health issues. You can learn about more of them at my website/blog.
As Dr. Dean Ornish states: "Joy is a more powerful motivator than fear." As it relates to living a healthy lifestyle, find your joy.