Commentary on F as in Fat: How Obesity Policies Are Failing in America 2009
If people are not used to exercising, I ask them to start with 5 to 10 minutes a day with friends or family members. Cut down on the sugary drinks. Drink one less sugary drink and replace it with water, 100% juice or tea.
People are surprised that starting small and increasing over time can create a positive outcome in six months to a year. It also creates habits that people can continue over time.
Also, take the approach of leading by example. I go exercising with friends every week. Last week, for example, one of my patients ran into me while I was walking with friends around the mall. This is why people trust me. They know I am trying to live healthy, too. This is my solution: one person at a time.
Live Vibrantly,
Dr. Dae
Dr. Dae's website: www.healthydaes.org
Dr. Dae's book: Daelicious! Recipes for Vibrant Living can be purchased @ www.amazon.com or www.healthydaes.org
Dr. Dae's Bio:
Daemon "Dr. Dae" (pronounced Dr. Day) Jones is a Naturopathic Physician who completed her training at the University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine. She is certified as a General Practitioner by the North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners (NABNE).
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I like your approach. I always tell my kids that they shouldn't tattle but to make sure they are doing what they should be doing and not monitor others. It's up to each person to tackle their own health issue and support of family and friends is helpful.
I also feel the government is missing a key component of this issue. There are so many xenoestrogens in our environment that we are not trying to eliminate, they come from meat pumped up with estrogen, milk, birth control contaminants not filtered out of our water system, plastics, processed foods and more. Our whole society is over estrogened (men too, they live in the same place and eat what we do) that we can't control our sugar habit because it's hormone induced.
You have inspired me to start my family walks again. Thank you.
Educating people how to have a healthy lifestyle is important. Children are taught maths and english at school etc., but maybe more time needs to be allocated to 'lifestyle' choices. Schools, clubs and church groups could all help to play a role in educating people.
We are bombarded by food manfacturer ads and messages saying 'eat this'. There needs to be another ad and message that says 'think before you eat'.