Sweet, Sweet Science

Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco put forth the theory that sugar is so toxic for the body it should be regulated like alcohol or tobacco.  They're not completely wrong about the effects of sugar on the body.  It wasn't until recently that we have been able to produce cheap sugar, so it is not just for the very rich.  In modern times, everyone has access to sugar, and we like it.  No big surprises there.  However, it does coincide with a diabetes and weight epidemic.  Of course there are other factors, but sugar is a major problem.  It's common, attractive and inexpensive, and very bad for us in large doses.  There are factual links to back up part of their findings.  I understand part of their point.

I admit, I am amused and horrified at one of the recommendations.  They go so far as to want to tax it, limit the age you can buy sugar products, and not allow stores too close to schools to carry added sugar products.  That's nowhere near reality, so it's funny, right?

Except, when you think of the expense of eating wholesome food we are doing it, and the scope is a hell of a lot bigger.  The problem is that healthy eating is expensive, at a time when more people are in a food crunch.  So many people eat off the $1 menus and live on Ramen noodles because they can get full on a fraction of the cost.  Fresh fruit is expensive, and Twinkies are easier to store.  There is a huge increase in families who aren't starving but are not eating healthy food.  Between the lack of vitamins and the added chemicals, it's no wonder our bodies are fighting back.  Our culture has an unhealthy relationship with food.

Limiting what is available?  They're doing that right now, too.  The reality is, a kid having a Coke once in a while is not a horrible thing.  It should be done in moderation, like anything else.  Some schools are banishing choices, but little being done to present good ones.  I'm not advocating Coke machines in every hallway, but that is not the root of the problem. Some kids grow up not knowing healthy food can taste good.  Parents can lead by example, and stop forcing schools and legislation handle something as simple as enjoying the occasional soda and the frequent whole fruit or vegetable.  Hungry kids is a problem but I'm also addressing the kids with plenty of money and rotting teeth and high blood pressure.  Enforcing healthy eating habits and teaching kids to make reasonable choices is the key to turning this around.  Restricting choices won't work, and was never a practical solution.  However, teaching kids to eat healthier, making healthier foods available and practicing what we preach is a great start.  And hey, take the stairs while you're at it, slacker.

Michelle Obama has worked hard to bring national attention to healthier habits.  From exercise (I'm sure you've seen the Ellen clip, right?) to fresh fruit and decision making, she has tried to inspire adults and children alike.  Some people roll their eyes and say she is trying to mother the nation, but the reality is a vast number of people are risking health problems.  It's a wake up call we need that doesn't just affect our snacking habits, but also a mindset of self-control and common sense.

There is just too much to cover in one article, so I'll stop here.  We have girls starving themselves, kids and adults stuffing themselves, poor folks who can't afford anything but raw calories and super processed foods, kids with money who choose potato chips over a vegetable every single day, a society that tells us to indulge ourselves and an economy that means we have a Snickers instead of a new pair of shoes.

Something's gotta give.