Article Source: msnbc.com
from:msnbc.comCheap obesity steps could have major health impact
Seeded on Thu Nov 11, 2010 1:28 AM EST (msnbc.com)
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Food is good. But obesity wouldn't exist if people knew how to say "no"
The idea of a coordinated approach is exactly what needs to be implemented. Especially in America, any sort of regulation on food products like taxes, removing items from food stamp availability, and the issue in San Fransisco with the healthier kids meals, brings adamant opposition on the grounds of freedom and choice. Unfortunately, the sad fact is that freedom and choice have completely failed us and have led us (in the US) and the rest of the world into a global obesity epidemic. Rising healthcare costs are just the start of the direct negative financial impacts brought upon by this overwhelming problem. Though it's hard to reconcile limiting some food choices for the sake of public health, I think that it's time to accept the fact that it might be necessary to make some changes similar to the taxes and advertising limitation put on cigarettes and alcohol. We need to turn the ship around and sometimes it takes national-level intervention. Rational, effective nutrition for fat loss and long-term health: http://www.NutritionPerfected.com/np-blog.html
This is evolution, just the other end of the spectrum. Enjoy the ride, you can do nothing to stop it.
I am a biology professor and have been a fitness nut all of my life. I can say without hesitation that a person's genetic makeup is the main cause of body-type/obesity.
All this regulation is just a power grab.
That's nuts! Blaming overweight on genetic makeup is an irresponsible cop out.
Many people who were normal weight through early adulthood find themselves gaining pounds later in life when they eat more and are less active.
There are scores of success stories of people who were grossly overweight who lost all those pounds and kept the weight off for the rest of their lives.
Being fit and healthy feels good - far better than a few moments of overindulgence that leaves you feeling bloated, overweight and feeling unhealthy for a lifetime.
Why not institute Fit Weight Premium Reductions?
All you would have to do to qualify for a Fit Weight Premium Reduction is appear for your annual physical examination (which helps catch health problems early and reduces costs) within 10% of your optimal fit weight or BMI.
Smokers pay higher premiums for their bad habits, why not give people a financial incentive to maintain healthy, fit weights (nobody wants to pay a fat tax).
That would discriminate against those who are genetically predisposed to be heavy. There are people who can drink a six-pack of Mountain Dew every day and will never lose their six-pack abs whereas others have a genetic propensity to store everything they eat.
There's absolutely no discrimination at all!
A Fit Weight Premium Reduction Plan merely offers opportunities for health insurance premiums reductions if the individual is willing to pursue it and fulfill all the requirements.
Heavier people can continue to pay the same standard rates as everyone else.