Thursday, 27 September 2012

Saturday Morning Drill: Body Weight Workout

Many of us look forward to the weekend for several reasons, whether we have big plans or are just ready for some rest. If you’re like me, you have a hard time getting yourself to the gym on Saturday mornings when there are so many other things you’d rather be doing (like sleeping in). When you [...]

Source: http://www.dietsinreview.com/diet_column/09/saturday-morning-drill-body-weight-workout/

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Why Is Weight Loss Quackery Being Sold By Pharmacists?


A reader sent me the photo up above. It shows at best non-evidence based, at worst completely useless and not necessarily safe weight loss quackery is being prominently sold by placard in at least one Ontario pharmacy at their pickup counter.

How is this legal?

The short answer is that it's legal because Health Canada just doesn't care. They don't care that pharmacy shelves are filled with nonsense that not only wastes their money, but also potentially their health as they may supplant physician visits and medical care for the promises festooned on the side of a bottle.

But do pharmacists care? In this case do they care that my reader thinks customers will take the promotion of Dr. Oz miracle pills at their pickup counter to be a professional endorsement by the pharmacists themselves?


Pharmacists are highly educated health professionals and here in Ontario (where the photo up above was taken), they're regulated by the Ontario College of Pharmacists (OCP), and represented in Canada by the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA).

Peeking at the OCP website I came across their Model Standards of Care document and in it, this statement,
"23. recommend non-prescription drug therapy only having collected and interpreted patient information to ensure that:

• there are no significant drug interactions or contra-indications, and
• the medication is the most appropriate in view of patient characteristics, signs and symptoms, other conditions and medications, and
• the dose and instructions for use of the medication are correct
"
But given that there is no dose (no human trials) how could any amount of it ever be considered "appropriate"?

And what of the CPhA?

While they don't have the same sort of Standards of Care document, they do have one on Direct-To-Consumer Advertising and in it they note,
"the information available to patients must be objective, accurate and comprehensive."
Does that sign up above suggest objectivity, accuracy and comprehensiveness?

I know I have pharmacists who read my blog. Given the ability to comment anonymously, would love it if you might weigh in on how you feel selling products that have no scientific basis whatsoever behind their use and whether or not you feel it challenges your ethics or your College's codes of conduct.

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/fLgR/~3/1AAj-aFKVDo/why-is-weight-loss-quackery-being-sold.html

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Trader Joe’s Peanut Butters Recalled Due to Salmonella Risk

If peanut butter is your jam, be on the lookout for some recalls this week. Last Friday, Trader Joe’s made headlines when it announced a voluntary recall of its Salted Valencia Peanut Butter on suspicioun of it containing a rare strain of salmonella.  Since then, Trader Joe’s peanut butter producer, Sunland Inc., has followed suit [...]

Source: http://www.dietsinreview.com/diet_column/09/trader-joes-peanut-butters-recalled-due-to-salmonella-risk/

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Lab Notes: Psychopathic Trait Makes a Good President; Topical Pain Relievers Can Cause Burns

On our Lab Notes page CalorieLab’s editors select and rank the day’s essential health news items in real time. Readers can suggest, vote and comment on items. Below are brief summaries of this past week’s (September 8, 2012 through September 15, 2012) Lab Notes items. To see today’s items, visit Lab Notes.

1. Psychopathic Trait Makes a Good President

Successful U.S. presidents have a psychopathic personality trait in common: fearless dominance, say researchers from Emory University.

2. Topical Pain Relievers Can Cause Burns

Topical relievers that can be purchased over-the-counter have been tied to a very small number of chemical burns, but some of them have been serious enough for the FDA to issue a warning about this potential adverse effect.

3. ABC Sued for Using Term “Pink Slime”

ABC News has been sued for defamation and $1.2 billion by the manufacturers of what has been dubbed “pink slime,” a beef product that has been called into question.

4. Diet May Play Role in Alzheimer’s Disease

Vitamin C and beta-carotene may play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease finds a new study.

5. Obesity More Common in Rural vs Urban Areas

Obesity is more common among Americans who live in rural areas than in cities.

6. Tourist Deaths in SE Asia Spur Investigation

Two young women die mysteriously while traveling in SE Asia. Experts suspect insecticide poisoning, citing similar deaths.

7. 2009 Tax Hike Means Fewer 2012 Smokers

Since the 2009 hike in federal cigarette taxes, 3 million fewer Americans smoke and the overall smoker rate is an all-time low 19%, with decreases of more than 10% among such groups as teens, the elderly, the poor, and those on government health care.

8. NYC Passes Ban on Supersized Drinks

The New York City Board of Health has voted in support of a law that will limit sodas and other sugary drinks at restaurants to 16 ounces. “This would slow the obesity epidemic and prevent much needless illness,” says Health Commissioner Thomas Farley.

9. Ricotta Salata Cheese Recalled for Listeria

Frescolina ricotta salata cheese contaminated with listeria has caused three deaths in Minnesota, Nebraska and New York.

10. Campaigns Against Obesity Can Backfire

Messages of anti-obesity campaigns may leave some obese Americans feeling shame and depression.

11. Fish Oil Not as Wonderful as Thought

Fish oil supplements may not protect the heart as well as many people think, suggest researchers

12. Feds Seek Nationwide College Smoking Bans

The U.S. government is initiating a campaign to have colleges and universities ban smoking and all sales of tobacco products on school property. Already, 774 schools prohibit smoking on campus, and 562 prohibit all tobacco use, including smokeless.

13. CDC Says Climate Change Is Health Threat

Health officials from the CDC say that the poster child for global warming shouldn’t be a polar bear, but a child.

14. Marijuana Use May Up Testicular Cancer Risk

A third study supports the link between marijuana use in men and a higher risk of developing testicular cancer.

15. Leafy Greens Are Essential Superfood

Cooler weather may mean the end of peak season for some fresh fruits and vegetables, but it is the perfect time to add dark leafy greens to your diet. These nutrient powerhouses may offer protection against many health conditions, including heart disease.

16. Heavy Kids Eat Less Than Healthy Weight Ones

Combating childhood obesity means amping up activity, says new study that finds that overweight older kids consume fewer calories than their healthy weight peers.

17. Immunizations Down for CA Private School Kids

A new survey shows a correlation between private school attendance and parents’ choice to not vaccinate their kids.

18. Van Halen Says Fad Diet Nearly Killed Him

Rocker Eddie Van Halen blames the Master Cleanse diet for almost killing him. Van Halen needed emergency abdominal surgery to save his life.

19. Diet Companies Support Drink Size Limit

New York City’s plan to place a 16 ounce limit on the size of sugary drinks sold in restaurants, delis, theaters and other commercial establishments has been endorsed by major diet companies Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers and the South Beach Diet.

(By CalorieLab editors)

Lab Notes: Psychopathic Trait Makes a Good President; Topical Pain Relievers Can Cause Burns is a post from: CalorieLab - Health News & Information Blog

Source: http://calorielab.com/news/2012/09/15/this-past-week-health-news-from-labnotes-7/

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Primal Blueprint Fitness: JR’s Primal Workout

Source: http://www.marksdailyapple.com/primal-blueprint-fitness-jrs-primal-workout/

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Wednesday, 26 September 2012

Lab Notes: Psychopathic Trait Makes a Good President; Topical Pain Relievers Can Cause Burns

On our Lab Notes page CalorieLab’s editors select and rank the day’s essential health news items in real time. Readers can suggest, vote and comment on items. Below are brief summaries of this past week’s (September 8, 2012 through September 15, 2012) Lab Notes items. To see today’s items, visit Lab Notes.

1. Psychopathic Trait Makes a Good President

Successful U.S. presidents have a psychopathic personality trait in common: fearless dominance, say researchers from Emory University.

2. Topical Pain Relievers Can Cause Burns

Topical relievers that can be purchased over-the-counter have been tied to a very small number of chemical burns, but some of them have been serious enough for the FDA to issue a warning about this potential adverse effect.

3. ABC Sued for Using Term “Pink Slime”

ABC News has been sued for defamation and $1.2 billion by the manufacturers of what has been dubbed “pink slime,” a beef product that has been called into question.

4. Diet May Play Role in Alzheimer’s Disease

Vitamin C and beta-carotene may play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease finds a new study.

5. Obesity More Common in Rural vs Urban Areas

Obesity is more common among Americans who live in rural areas than in cities.

6. Tourist Deaths in SE Asia Spur Investigation

Two young women die mysteriously while traveling in SE Asia. Experts suspect insecticide poisoning, citing similar deaths.

7. 2009 Tax Hike Means Fewer 2012 Smokers

Since the 2009 hike in federal cigarette taxes, 3 million fewer Americans smoke and the overall smoker rate is an all-time low 19%, with decreases of more than 10% among such groups as teens, the elderly, the poor, and those on government health care.

8. NYC Passes Ban on Supersized Drinks

The New York City Board of Health has voted in support of a law that will limit sodas and other sugary drinks at restaurants to 16 ounces. “This would slow the obesity epidemic and prevent much needless illness,” says Health Commissioner Thomas Farley.

9. Ricotta Salata Cheese Recalled for Listeria

Frescolina ricotta salata cheese contaminated with listeria has caused three deaths in Minnesota, Nebraska and New York.

10. Campaigns Against Obesity Can Backfire

Messages of anti-obesity campaigns may leave some obese Americans feeling shame and depression.

11. Fish Oil Not as Wonderful as Thought

Fish oil supplements may not protect the heart as well as many people think, suggest researchers

12. Feds Seek Nationwide College Smoking Bans

The U.S. government is initiating a campaign to have colleges and universities ban smoking and all sales of tobacco products on school property. Already, 774 schools prohibit smoking on campus, and 562 prohibit all tobacco use, including smokeless.

13. CDC Says Climate Change Is Health Threat

Health officials from the CDC say that the poster child for global warming shouldn’t be a polar bear, but a child.

14. Marijuana Use May Up Testicular Cancer Risk

A third study supports the link between marijuana use in men and a higher risk of developing testicular cancer.

15. Leafy Greens Are Essential Superfood

Cooler weather may mean the end of peak season for some fresh fruits and vegetables, but it is the perfect time to add dark leafy greens to your diet. These nutrient powerhouses may offer protection against many health conditions, including heart disease.

16. Heavy Kids Eat Less Than Healthy Weight Ones

Combating childhood obesity means amping up activity, says new study that finds that overweight older kids consume fewer calories than their healthy weight peers.

17. Immunizations Down for CA Private School Kids

A new survey shows a correlation between private school attendance and parents’ choice to not vaccinate their kids.

18. Van Halen Says Fad Diet Nearly Killed Him

Rocker Eddie Van Halen blames the Master Cleanse diet for almost killing him. Van Halen needed emergency abdominal surgery to save his life.

19. Diet Companies Support Drink Size Limit

New York City’s plan to place a 16 ounce limit on the size of sugary drinks sold in restaurants, delis, theaters and other commercial establishments has been endorsed by major diet companies Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers and the South Beach Diet.

(By CalorieLab editors)

Lab Notes: Psychopathic Trait Makes a Good President; Topical Pain Relievers Can Cause Burns is a post from: CalorieLab - Health News & Information Blog

Source: http://calorielab.com/news/2012/09/15/this-past-week-health-news-from-labnotes-7/

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Best Dessert Ever: Chobani SoHo Really is Nothing But Good

I’m in New York City on business for a few days this week. Somehow all of my meetings worked out to be staggered perfectly around each meal time on a single day. It was positively gorgeous outside, so I walked about 60 blocks throughout lower Manhattan to get to each meeting. My second-to-last meeting was [...]

Source: http://www.dietsinreview.com/diet_column/09/best-dessert-ever-chobani-soho-really-is-nothing-but-good/

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Choose the Right Gym For You (So You’ll Actually Use the Membership)

With the fall season upon us and holidays approaching quickly, some of you might be considering joining a gym in order to maintain those extra calories you’ll be consuming this season. To help you make the best decision for you, we’ve put together a list of gyms that each has their own unique purpose and programs. [...]

Source: http://www.dietsinreview.com/diet_column/09/choose-the-right-gym-for-you-so-youll-actually-use-the-membership/

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“If It Doesn’t Challenge You, It Doesn’t Change You.”

Source: http://www.losingweight.com/weight-loss-quotes/if-it-doesnt-challenge-you-it-doesnt-change-you?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=if-it-doesnt-challenge-you-it-doesnt-change-you

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Throw Away a Past of Crappy Eating with The Digest Diet

By Jill Sandberg I can honestly say I can’t remember a time I’ve ever lost this much weight in a week. Sure, most of it is water weight, but still…eight and a half pounds in a week is kind of a big deal. The first week on the Digest Diet was so easy. I read [...]

Source: http://www.dietsinreview.com/diet_column/09/throw-away-a-past-of-crappy-eating-with-the-digest-diet/

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The Most Painfully Stupid Thing I've Read in a While


It was written by the American Beverage Association in response to the barrage of articles condemning sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) the New England Journal of Medicine published this past Friday. The articles beat the dead horse that sugar-sweetened beverages contribute to rising weights.

It's a dead horse because as the American Beverage Association themselves report,
"Sugar-sweetened beverages contribute about 7 percent of the calories in the average American’s diet."
And guess what? 7% is a lot!  If you lose 7% of your total daily calories you're probably going to either lose weight or gain more slowly.

Of course even that's disingenuous as what the ABA doesn't report is that the percentage of sugar-sweetened calories is dramatically higher in teens (as much as 25% of calories coming from sugar sweetened beverages), and moreover, looking at all comers, ignores the fact that there are many folks who don't drink any sugar-sweetened beverages at all meaning that for the actual drinkers, the percentage and/or number of SSB calories they're consuming are likely much, much, higher.

What other arguments are trotted out by the ABA to defend the regular consumption of sugar water?

1. All calories count
2. You can balance calories in with calories out
3. Consumption of soda is going down, yet obesity rates are going up
4. There are people who struggle with weight who don't drink SSBs
5. SSB manufacturers also make non-SSBs
6. We don't advertise SSBs to kids
7. We're part of the solution because we've worked with Bill Clinton and Michele Obama

My responses?

1. And?
2. Sure, just balance those calories you consumed in all of 3 minutes each day by adding 3.5-7 HOURS of exercise a week.  Easy peasy.
3. And?
4. So?
5. And?
6. LOL!
7. Sigh.

Really?  These are the best arguments the beverage industry's got?  If that's the case, I'd say we're getting somewhere!

Here's hoping that America's current Surgeon General Regina Benjamin takes this opportunity to grab a page out of C. Everett Koop's shoes and actually take a useful stand on a product that's undermining global health.

If for some mind bogglingly bizarre reason you're still on the fence on SSBs and their contribution to weight, why not have a read of the editorial published in NEJM and perhaps the articles themselves (they're free).

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/fLgR/~3/UA3rI2k-51U/the-most-painfully-stupid-thing-ive.html

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Tuesday, 25 September 2012

“Eat Less Sugar – You’re Sweet Enough Already.”

Source: http://www.losingweight.com/weight-loss-quotes/eat-less-sugar-youre-sweet-enough-already?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=eat-less-sugar-youre-sweet-enough-already

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Choose the Right Gym For You (So You’ll Actually Use the Membership)

With the fall season upon us and holidays approaching quickly, some of you might be considering joining a gym in order to maintain those extra calories you’ll be consuming this season. To help you make the best decision for you, we’ve put together a list of gyms that each has their own unique purpose and programs. [...]

Source: http://www.dietsinreview.com/diet_column/09/choose-the-right-gym-for-you-so-youll-actually-use-the-membership/

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Nutritionist Joy Bauer Debuts “Joy’s Healthy Bite” on TODAY

America’s favorite nutritionist Joy Bauer, earned a little more air time this week. The star debuted a new segment on the TODAY Show this morning called “Joy’s Healthy Bite,” in which she covers the latest buzz in the health world including food trends, research findings and celebrity diets.  We tuned in for today’s segment where [...]

Source: http://www.dietsinreview.com/diet_column/09/nutritionist-joy-bauer-debuts-joys-healthy-bite-on-today/

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Choose Wisely: The Color of Your Yoga Mat Can Affect Your Practice

Have you ever wondered why you are attracted to a certain color? Be it stark grey, or a wild and vivid fuschia, colors can have a direct affect on our mood, as well as reflect the way we feel about ourselves. The history of feng shui, the philosophy behind the chakras, and the classic mood [...]

Source: http://www.dietsinreview.com/diet_column/09/choose-wisely-the-color-of-your-yoga-mat-can-affect-your-practice/

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“It Never Gets Easier. You Just Get Better.”

Source: http://www.losingweight.com/weight-loss-quotes/it-never-gets-easier-you-just-get-better?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=it-never-gets-easier-you-just-get-better

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The Facts on Melatonin Revealed on Dr. Oz

Tune in to Dr. Oz September 25 when he explains everything you need to know about melatonin, the oft controversial sleep aid supplement. He also talks about natural stress relievers and the myths about anti-aging that are actually making you older.  Melatonin is a hormone made naturally by your body to regulate sleep patterns, but [...]

Source: http://www.dietsinreview.com/diet_column/09/the-facts-on-melatonin-revealed-on-dr-oz/

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So You’ve Decided to Lose Weight – Now What?

Why do you want to lose weight in the first place? Is it to look good or fit in that new dress or pair of jeans or to turn heads at the next class reunion? Why do you really want to lose weight? Have you considered that being overweight is also a hazard to your health? Most people really do not understand the risks of being overweight. While looking good or fitting into that new pair of jeans is certainly a benefit this should not be your sole reason for losing weight. Overweight and obesity kills thousands of people every year.


Overweight and obesity are problems that continue to get worse in the United States. This is a result of bigger portion sizes, little time to exercise or cook healthy meals, and relying on cars and public transportation to get around.


The Risks of Being Overweight
Being overweight can lead to such diseases as cancer, heart disease, stroke and diabetes to name a few. So please understand that overeating, an unhealthy diet and physical inactivity can increase your chances of getting these and other diseases.


Do ‘Not’ Go on A ‘Diet’
The first thing most people think of when losing weight is ‘going on a diet’. No, No, No. ‘Diets’ are temporary fixes. You should think of losing weight as a ‘permanent lifestyle change’. You will probably need to learn new and wiser eating skills and re-arrange your mind set. Consider the last time you went on a ‘diet’- you were probably miserable, right? This is because most so-called ‘diets’ are restrictive, forcing you to eat only certain food (i.e no carbs, juice only, special soups, veggies only, etc…) and the list goes on. If you are like me you have probably tried some of these before. I will say that diets are diets and many people have found success with a number of them. However, the real ‘key’ to losing weight over the long term and keeping it off is to make gradual lifestyle changes that you can stick to. Try some of these ~ use fat free milk instead of whole milk, drink water instead of high calorie soda, start eating smaller portion sizes, eat leaner cuts of meat such as chicken and turkey, snack on peanut butter, light popcorn, low fat cheese and fruit instead of chips and junk food. These lifestyle changes then become a part of your ‘normal’.


Losing Weight and Becoming Healthier
With so much conflicting information in the media most people are not provided with the truthful facts about losing weight and becoming healthier. With all of the fad diets, and quick weight loss gimmicks it is understandable that so many people really don’t know the truth about losing fat and keeping it off long term.


Simple Fact: You are either gaining fat, or losing fat; there is no in-between. Well, duuh you say. OK, consider this. How many times have you justified binging because you came to a road-block? or how many times have you said “well since I messed up today already at lunch, I’ll just eat what I want for dinner”~ or “I’ll start eating healthy again on Monday”. You know the deal. So what did binging do for you? You gained more fat and took a step backward from where you were – get the picture? The trick is not letting the road block completely derail your entire lifestyle change.


Have you thought about (up until now) how much you consume each day? Many overweight people eat thousands of extra calories and fat without even realizing it. It is hard to know if you are gaining weight or losing weight each day unless you are actually keeping an eye on what you are consuming. You can do this by keeping a journal; a journal can help you keep up with your daily food intake and other things pertinent to your weight loss program.


Natural Dietary Supplements
There are a variety of supplements on the market to help you lose weight, maintain weight, boost your immune system ~ the list goes on. Some of these can be very effective in your weight loss program. Please research any supplement that you decide to use and make sure that it fits into your personal weight loss plan. Also remember to consult with your physician before taking any supplements or beginning any weight loss program.


Finding and Implementing Your Weight Loss Program
There are many weight loss plans and programs on the market today. Do your research and find the one that is best for you. Many programs today are more flexible than they once were. You will want a program that gives you some control rather than a one-size-fits-all program that imposes rigid demands.


Keep in mind also that your weight loss program should also include some type of physical exercise. You might consider this as the ‘fun’ part of your program. Consider joining a gym or working out with friends. Incorporate everyday activities such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking further down the parking lot or taking a walk at lunch.


Once you have made up your mind to lose weight, the first thing that you must understand is that this will be a long term commitment. How long, depends on the amount of weight you want to lose and your own personal goals. If you have tried to lose weight in the past or if you know someone who has – we all know that it can be quite a challenge. In fact, for some people it will just be down right tough. Remember, it takes time, practice and support to change lifetime habits. And remember it is a process, it will not happen overnight but it can happen and you will succeed and reach the goal that you have set. However, at the end of the day it is You and You alone who has the power to lose those unwanted pounds.


Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/WeightLossEasily/~3/qfjZpy9jRaQ/so-youve-decided-to-lose-weight-now-what

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Monday, 24 September 2012

Companies Offer Perks to Lose Weight

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(CC) Offutt Air Force Base/Flickr


Losing weight is never easy, but what if employees had the backing of their employer and/or health insurance company? Would that make it easier? Many employers are betting on it.

The number of large employers offering weight-related health perks has nearly doubled in the past year alone. In 2011, 37 percent of large companies were offering financial incentives like the reduction of insurance premium costs, gift cards or additional paid days off. In 2012, around 60 percent are offering that. Of course, it can be far more difficult for smaller-sized companies to offer perks like the larger and mid-size companies can, since there’s a smaller negotiating table when it comes to dealing with the big health insurance giants.

According to Jim Winkler, chief innovation officer for Health & Benefits at Aon Hewitt, “Incentives solely tied to participation tend to become entitlement programs, with employees expecting to be rewarded without any sense of accountability for better health. To truly impact employee behavior change, more and more organizations realize they need to closely tie rewards to outcomes and better results rather than just enrollment.”

Do you think it’s a good thing that employers and health insurance companies are joining forces to encourage healthier lifestyles, or do you think it’s none of their business?

(By Marissa Brassfield for CalorieLab)

Ed. note: Enjoyed this post? Click the “Like” button below and be sure to “Like” the CalorieLab Facebook page.

Companies Offer Perks to Lose Weight is a post from: CalorieLab - Health News & Information Blog

Source: http://calorielab.com/news/2012/09/07/companies-offer-perks-to-lose-weight/

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A nice compliment from J Public Health Policy

Most of you probably don’t read the Journal of Public Health Policy, but I’m on its editorial committee.  Nevertheless, this editorial came as a surprise.*   I thought I would share it with you.  Enjoy!  (I did).

Big food

Anthony Robbins M.D., M.P.A.Co-Editor

I first encountered Marion Nestle in the late 1990s when I edited Public Health Reports, the scientific journal of the US Public Health Service. We published a provocative piece of hers about the marketing by Proctor and Gamble of Olestra, a zero calorie fat substitute. Marion taught me a great deal about how the food industry markets its products that are tasty, convenient, and relatively inexpensive. It markets intensively to children and continues to do so long after overeating and obesity have been shown to have deadly health consequences. Sound familiar? Perhaps like the tobacco industry.

In 2003, I invited Marion to Public Health Grand Rounds to describe the obesity epidemic to my public health students at Tufts Medical School. To follow Marion, I invited Richard Daynard from Northeastern Law School, who had litigated extensively against the tobacco industry. Dick carefully noted the differences between tobacco, which has no healthy use, and food. But he suggested that the anti-health behavior of the two industries might be similar: continuing to market products in a way that certainly harmed health.

When the public health faculty at Tufts and the law faculty at Northeastern joined forces to establish the Public Health Advocacy Institute, one of our first projects was Legal Approaches to the Obesity Epidemic1, a symposium published in the Journal of Public Health Policy, in 2004. It attracted a great deal of attention and JPHP became a favorite place to publish research on obesity.

But I was not entirely pleased, because although the research was usually methodologically sound, it often missed Marion’s point and the focus of the PHAI symposium. Most submissions concentrated on individual behavior and personal responsibility. In 2010, I asked Marion, who was on the JPHP editorial board to join me in writing an Editorial: ‘Obesity as collateral damage: a call for papers on the Obesity Epidemic’.2 We had ‘come to believe that research studies concentrating on personal behavior and responsibility as causes of the obesity epidemic do little but offer cover to an industry seeking to downplay its own responsibility’. We urged ‘authors to submit articles that consider how to understand and change the behavior of the food industry’.

Imagine our pleasure in learning that starting this June, PLoS Medicine will publish a series of articles exploring the food industry’s involvement in health with Marion Nestle as a guest editor. To PLoS Medicine, we say bravo!

References

  1. Journal of Public Health Policy (2004) Special section: Legal approaches to the obesity epidemic. 25(3&4): 346–434.
  2. Robbins, A. and Nestle, M. (2011) Obesity as collateral damage: A call for papers on the Obesity Epidemic. Journal of Public Health Policy 32(2): 143-145.

 *Journal of Public Health Policy (2012) 33, 285–286. doi:10.1057/jphp.2012.25

Source: http://www.foodpolitics.com/2012/09/a-nice-compliment-from-j-public-health-policy/

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