Tom Tozer and Bill BlackWe know we need fuel to operate our vehicles, training to perform our jobs and stimulation to grow our brains. Why do we have such a difficult time understanding that good nutrition and exercise have a dramatic impact on our bodies? Is it knowledge we need, cost we fear or time we lack?
Poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle can lead to illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that more than 215,000 people under the age of 20 have diabetes and 12.5 million are obese. The price tag is high. In 2007 and 2008, the cost of dealing with diabetes was $174 billion and obesity was $147 billion.
According to the CDC, healthy eating is important for proper development and prevention of health problems. Yet we continue to consume foods that are high in sodium, fat, sugar and artificial ingredients and low in nutritional value.
Healthy eating helps prevent high cholesterol and high blood pressure and reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases. It is associated with better performance at school or work, reduced absenteeism and improved mood. A poor diet can increase the risk of excess weight and obesity. So what’s the problem? Why can’t we eat right and get the proper amount of exercise?
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend fruits and vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products. Yet young people frequently don’t follow these guidelines.