Fitter or Fatter?
In January, many of us start thinking about our health. Especially so, after all of the holiday eating. Many resolve to begin an exercise program and lose those added pounds. But which diet should we try? The marketplace is overloaded with various diets. What one is safe and reliable?The media has done an effective job in promoting the Atkins diet. While this diet can provide a quick fix, in the long haul it is an unsafe and unhealthful diet. Carbohydrate-bashing has become really popular, but the overwhelming evidence of science reveals that a high starch/high fiber diet that is modest in fat and protein and low in saturated fat and cholesterol (the very opposite of the Atkins diet) is the most healthful diet.
Nearly 60% of Americans are overweight, and most are unaware of how much they are eating due to the portion distortion. Over the past 20 years, the average portion size of food has increased from 50 to 135 calories, while the average beverage serving has increased from 8 to 20 ounces. People are also eating 50% more snacks. Now is the time to start using smaller plates and begin bigger exercise programs. We are challenged to be known for our moderation (Phil 4:5).
Author: Winston Craig, MPH, PhD, RD.
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