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At times it seems as if we are bombarded with news of miraculous diets and the latest “food and diet cures”. Health related newsletters, websites, books, and infomercials literally litter our home and Internet mailboxes. In a world of growing information with no lack of health experts and gurus, we seem to be getting sicker as a nation.
The health status of the United States is far below many countries, many of which have less wealth and technology than we do. We see a continued rise in obesity, adult onset diabetes and heart disease. Childhood obesity along with metabolic syndrome (“pre-diabetes”) and high cholesterol have become a reality and a trend. Spectrum disorders such as autism, attention deficit disorder and hyperactivity have skyrocketed in our children.
These are complex problems that cannot be addressed with simple explanations and quick solutions. On an individual level we can at least begin to look at our daily lifestyles and habits, especially compared to generations past. We can all begin to look at our diet and exercise levels and make huge differences in our health on a daily basis. How many of us consistently buy fresh and organic foods and prepare most of our meals from scratch? How many of us give in and consume processed and packaged foods filled with additives and preservatives? What about our consumption of fast foods filled with high starch, unhealthy fats and sugar? Have we spent much time examining the foods our children eat at school breakfasts and lunches? How many of our children start their days with a bowl of Frosted Flakes or some other sugar/high fructose corn syrup filled cereal? How many parents even have the knowledge to know better due to lack of vital information?
It is not unusual as a chiropractor and nutritionist to meet families with children who have learning, focus and attention problems that begin to do better at school with improved diets. Our diets can have an influence on behavior and cognition. Are children with poor diets, sedentary lifestyles complicated with computer games and TV, weight problems, learning and focus issues, and increased incidence of chronic disease as adults the legacy we want to leave? This is a harsh question and a picture of a harsh reality.
People can change their habits and become more informed and improve their health. It happens everyday. The future of you and your families’ health is in your hands. What legacy of health and wellness do you want to leave behind?
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