Abstract This paper argues that it is the large portion size and calorie content of our meals, rather than eating health-foods versus fast/junk foods, that is the true causative agent of obesity and related health problems in America. The paper bases this proposition on research done in the field of anti-aging which shows extreme life-extension and health benefits in animal and molecular studies when calories are reduced by forty percent from normal. Furthermore, the paper proposes that Americans be educated from a portion-control perspective first and a healthy-foods perspective secondarily.
Tags: Fast Food, Nutrition, McDonald's, Obesity, Anti-Aging, Calorie restriction
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses the "Hungry Girl" website that is devoted to cataloging low-calorie products, diet advice, and other forms of information presumably of interest to female dieters. The writer notes that female thinness as a visual social value rather than a health issue is reinforced through every section of the site, specifically female thinness. The writer points out that the need for help in the pursuit of thinness is also important because the young, female website surfer might fall into a high-calorie craving trap. The writer concludes that the message of "Hungry Girl" is that women are supposed to be 'consumed' by thoughts of food, rather than consuming unapproved food and that they should wish to be thin for thinness' sake, not for health reasons..
From the Paper "Female thinness as a visual social value rather than a health issue is reinforced through every section of the site, specifically female thinness. The need for help in the pursuit of thinness is important as well, because the young, female website surfer might fall into a high-calorie craving trap without Hungry Girl's 'nice' girlfriend-like advice, or keeping track of calories and Weight Watchers points. The female-focused nature of the site is obvious from its title, but also in terms of the foods stressed on the site, like chocolate, which presumably all females wish to consume around 'that time of the month.' Also, the target audience seems to be single females, given that almost all the recipes are in single servings, and seems unlikely to be palatable to anyone but a dieter."
Abstract This paper examines the effects of a high fat/low-carbohydrate diet such as Atkins, on body weight and composition. This paper compares such a high fat diet to the effects of a calorie-reduced, fat-restricted diet in an attempt to answer the question of whether weight loss occurs because of a metabolic advantage. Metabolic advantage means that the body begins to use fat as energy due to a lowered carbohydrate intake.
From the Paper "One possible reason that the subjects in the Pogliaghi and Veicsteinas (1999) study did not appear to benefit from a low-carbohydrate/high fat diet might be that they have not been participating in endurance training. As an individual exercises, the resulting muscle contractions are done using ATP. How the body creates and uses this ATP is dependant upon the amount of the energy sources available, and the intensity and duration of the exercise. In all individuals, even those who are non-obese, glycogen is generally used for ATP and thus, during moderate exercise, the body creates ATP from available glycogen. As the intensity of exercise is increased, oxygen levels in the body decrease, which makes the creation of ATP difficult. The body, at this point, will begin to burn fat to substitute for this lack of ability. Since prolonged endurance training has the affect of conditioning the muscles to "crossover" to burn glycogen after longer time duration, trained individuals will burn more fat and less glycogen than untrained individuals will. This might explain why the study done by Pogliaghi and Veicsteinas (1999) yielded such results as it did, since the individuals in the study were not trained athletes."
Abstract The paper relates that the Mediterranean cuisine is a healthy diet that contains many of the vitamins and nutrients that help us lose weight and live longer, healthier lives. The paper focuses on the nutritional qualities of olive oil, tomatoes, vegetables, lean meats, fish and red wine that are all an integral part of this diet. The paper also discusses how the Mediterranean diet is low in sweets, desserts and deep-fat fried foods. The physically active lifestyle of the area is noted as well as the fact that the lunchtime meal is the largest of the day with the smaller meal being eaten in the evening. This makes it easier on digestion and the absorption of calories and nutrients.
From the Paper "The Mediterranean diet of southern Europe is high in many items that many scientists and researchers believe help maintain heart health and a healthy weight. Olive oil, tomatoes, vegetables, lean meats, and even red wine all are an integral part of this diet, and studies indicate residents of the area live longer, with fewer heart problems, than residents of the United States. As more people learn about the benefits of the Mediterranean diet, it seems that more people will begin to study and live this healthier lifestyle. One way to encourage the adaptation of the American diet is to help people learn the benefits of the Mediterranean diet, learn how to prepare healthy dishes at home, and provide low-calorie and fat alternative for dining out, using the principles of the Mediterranean diet as a guide."
Abstract For many years nutritionists advised the general public about the cardiovascular implications of maintaining a diet regimen that restricts calorie intake. Information has now surfaced that a dietary restriction (DR) regimen has neurogenic implications. A DR regimen involves calorie restriction or intermittent fasting with maintained vitamin and mineral intake. This paper focuses on the effects of a DR regimen on neurogenesis and neuroprotection in the hippocampus and dentate gyrus. The contributory effect of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on neurogenesis is also examined in conjunction with a DR regimen.
From the Paper "Further study in this field of neuroprotection involves establishing how the cellular stress induced by DR and the subsequent production of BDNF is able to increase the resistance of hippocampal neurons (2). In addition, it would be important for researchers to find applications of this neuroprotection in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease. Neurodegenerative disorders have been characterized as involving increased oxidative and metabolic stress, and overactivation of glutamate receptors (2). If DR results in the production of BDNF, which has been found to increase neuronal resistance, then the next logical progression of this research involves their use with neurodegenerative disorders."
Abstract This paper examines how obesity is a very common condition characterized by excessive deposition of fat in the adipose tissues. It looks at how there are many approaches to dieting and many claims about great success with various fad diets which include calorie restriction, low-fat/high-fiber, or high protein and fat/low carbohydrates. It also discusses the importance of exercise.
Outline:
Measurement of Obesity
How to Lose Weight?
Calorie Restriction
Low-Fat and High-Fiber Diets
High-Protein Diets
Exercise
Changing Sedentary Habits
From the Paper "Calorie restriction has been the cornerstone of obesity treatment. One pound of fat equals about 3500 calories. Very-low calorie diets have also been associated with better success, but extreme diets can have some serious health consequences. Fat intake should be no more than 30% of total calories. Most fats should be in the form of monounsaturated fats (such as olive oil). Saturated fats (found in animal products) should be avoided. Severe dieting has unpleasant side effects, including fatigue, intolerance to cold, hair loss, gallstone formation and menstrual irregularities. Those whose diet includes high intake of fluids and much reduced protein and sodium are at risk for hyponatremia, causing fatigue, confusion, dizziness, and in extreme cases, coma. "
Abstract The paper discusses how, in an age where powerful corporate sponsors have come to inundate high school environments with fast food chains and high calorie snack foods, in cafeterias and vending machines, the need for healthier diets and healthier lifestyles amongst teenagers has never been greater. The paper shows how recent trends towards obesity in adolescence have reached a point of crisis, while the early onset of what has traditionally been referred to as 'adult onset' or 'late life' Type 2 Diabetes has become progressively commonplace. The paper studies the reasons behind these health issues and what can be done to prevent them.
From the Paper "In other words, despite the evidence for a crisis currently unfolding in the high schools, teachers, educational administrations, and governmental bodies alike have been slow to react to these trends. Nonetheless, their efforts remain essential in any attempt to counteract the devastating impact of eating disorders on today's youth. Those efforts could be productively channeled towards advertising campaigns, the development and distribution of important textual resources on the issues at hand, the cultural promotion of a healthy fitness regime, and even formal classroom instruction, all of which might work to better educate teenagers on the realities of eating disorders, and also the effects of these disorders on an individual's long-term physical and emotional health."
Abstract This paper examines the different aspects of Jenny Craig Inc. and its highly successful diet plan in order to determine its overwhelming international success. The paper outlines the plan's philosophy, including the importance of healthy eating, exercise and lifestyle changes. The author discusses the regular meetings that each client attends, the one-on-one consultations, structured eating program, supplements and stringent calorie requirements. The paper points out that this program is extremely structured and that the counselors undergo many hours of training including weekly and monthly sessions with medical personnel. The paper feels that this has contributed to its success, but does point out that, due to the highly structured nature of the program, many people fail to maintain their successes after they leave the confines of the center's program.
From the Paper "Jenny Craig emphasizes the essentials of activity and an active life. It stresses that regular physical activity is the top factor in losing and maintaining body weight. And when one is active, metabolism increases, more calories are burned and muscle mass maintained. those who become active tend to prefer healthy foods. And when one's lifestyle is active, the common consequences are improved immune function, better hormone balance, and reduced risk to heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis. Because of the increased energy and improved self-esteem, such clients or members begin o lead an active lifestyle."
An analysis of the book "Food First: Beyond the Myth of Scarcity" by Francis Moore Lappe and Joseph Collins which makes a clear argument against the existence of ?a world hunger crisis.?
Abstract The paper examines the book "Food First: Beyond the Myth of Scarcity" which makes a clear argument against the existence of ?a world hunger crisis.? It shows how authors Lappe and Collins support their main thesis that rather than a ?global food shortage,? we are facing an unequal distribution system. It shows how the book discusses the development of our current food production and distribution systems and how it supports the idea that there is in reality enough food production to supply everyone on earth with an adequate amount of calories, but that there is much wasted energy in the production, packaging and distribution of food to certain parts of the world. Finally, the paper discusses the main thesis of the book that there is actually no real food shortage, just an unequal distribution to certain parts of the world.
From the Paper "The primary focus of Lappe and Collins was to prove the theories of Malthus to be false through historical example. The theories of population growth as a basis for the existence of worldwide food famine is one of the major arguments world economists today who promote that distribution and development of better manufacturing techniques to in order to produce more food and support more people. Lappe and Collins have shown through many examples that there has always been enough food production to support the global population, but that a very small percent has been in control of the land to produce the food and the food itself, once produced. humans have always found a way to intensify food production to meet local needs."
An overview of products, services and diets including commercial programs (Jenny Craig, Nutri/System), the low calorie/fat-free diet market, consumer responses, successes and failures and the advantages and drawbacks.
6,975 words (approx. 27.9 pages), 68 sources, 1992, $ 135.95
From the Paper "As people keep growing, so does the weight loss market. There are enough different programs, food supplements and food replacements to fit any one's preference. And if one program does not work, there are plenty of others for an individual to try that will keep them busy for years.
The key to the success of commercial weight loss programs is that Americans crave quick results." According to one source, a quarter of all Americans are too fat, 13 million are seriously overweight, and nearly 20 percent of American adults (and more than half of all women) are perpetually dieting (Blodgett, 1991, p. 139). These figures compare with 1989 ones in which it was found that 100 million adult Americans are overweight and about half of those are dieting.
According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services..."
From the Paper "Just think about how great a nice juicy hamburger tastes. A bag of golden fries. A thick chocolate milk shake. Maybe a burrito. How about a quick slice of pizza? Or maybe some finger licking chicken from the colonel? No doubt about it, the choices for a fast food meal are endless. The question is, are the choices healthy? During the last decade there has been considerable debate over the nutritional benefits of the food we eat. More people than ever before are concerned about health factors. Once old ladies used to worry about their cholesterol and sodium level. Now its a topic discussed by health conscious yuppies, body builders, mothers with kids and aerobic addicts. One of the most sizzling controversial areas is with fast food. Can you eat a Big Mac without guilt? Does fast food always mean junk food? Do fast food restaurants have a corporate..."
Abstract The science of sports psychology rests uncomfortably between pure science, theory and hype. But, as athletes make their way up successive levels from amateur to semi-professional, from pro to world- class, the physical aspects of the game stay the same. The paper shows that an athlete can only digest so much nutrition, burn so many calories in the weight room and endure a relatively fixed amount of physical training before ready to perform at a peak level. The hypothesis is that the factor which separates one level of athlete from the next, and what often prevents an athlete with much "potential" from reaching his or her goals is the mental game. The paper shows that, although this idea sounds simple, at upper levels of performance the athlete's own body can become one of the opponents on the playing field which must also be conquered. Toward this end, the "science" of sports psychology, including hypnosis, self hypnosis, guided imagery and bio-feedback have come into the sports marketplace in the last 30 years, and have proven that at the levels of performance which test the athletes total ability, conquering the mind game is the cornerstone to victory on the playing field.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
History
Sports Psychology and Hypnosis
Desire: the First Requirement
Hypnosis, Self Hypnosis, Biofeedback
Examples of Biofeedback
Guided Imagery
Conclusion
References
From the Paper "An associative attentional focus concentrates one's awareness on bodily states, self-perceptions, and pacing or rhythm related to an activity. Conversely, a dissociative attentional focus or distraction diverts attention away from bodily self-awareness and self-perceptions and towards external stimuli or factors not related to an activity (e.g., words of a song, other people exercising). Studies have found conflicting results as to whether association or dissociation is a more effective strategy for improving performance."
Abstract This paper explores the working hypothesis that caloric restriction may prevent Alzheimer's disease. In addition, the paper explores the idea that individuals with the ApoE genotype and a higher intake of calories have a higher risk of AD than those who do not carry the apoE4 allele.
From the Paper "Alzheimer's Disease is a form of dementia that is marked by the loss of mental ability and various cognitive functions. The disease usually occurs in old age and is not detectable at birth. (Robinson) There is no consensus on the cause of AD but researchers have found a genetic link in the development of the disorder. The Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine explains that there are various genes that are implicated in AD. One such gene is amyloid precursor protein (APP), which creates amlyloid. When there are mutations in this gene the result is often the early onset of Alzheimer's disease. It is also reported that most individuals that have Down syndrome also develop AD."
Abstract This paper talks about the importance of proper nutrition in the physical fitness formula. The paper points out that the current and long-lasting trend in physical fitness, which places strong emphasis on what not to eat in order to achieve a desired weight, will not lead to true physical well-being. The paper talks about the importance of proper nutrition and how it relates to physical fitness and highlights the different components of good nutrition.
From the Paper "In today's cultural climate, especially in popular print and television media, most of the discourse on the topic of ?diet,? is focused on the concepts of ?exclusion.? In fact, some might argue that this narrow collective attention on "what must be eliminated" from diet, stems, not from the value of health and optimum physical performance, but from the specific and limited goal of weight loss to the exclusion of all else. Although there can be little doubt that the current national obesity epidemic is a serious problem, exclusive focus on negative diet discourse, i.e. ?Stop eating that!? causes considerable confusion about just what one should eat to ensure total physical fitness. After all, optimum weight is only one component of overall health and wellness."
Abstract This paper examines the increasing problem of children being overweight or obese. The paper explores the problems that overweight and obese children have, both physically and emotionally. Physically, these children deal with many ailments at an earlier age than was previously assumed to be the case; even heart disease can start in childhood when a sedentary lifestyle and a high-calorie diet cause weight gain. Emotionally, many of these children are also depressed and uncomfortable with their bodies and lives.
From the Paper "That is not to say that riding bicycles everywhere is the secret to weight loss in children, but it does serve to indicate that there are fewer children interested in exercise today and that it is one of the problems that contributes to the obesity epidemic. Bicycling is not the only exercise that is important and on the decline. Even walking and participating in physical education classes in school has decreased in recent years, and the lack of exercise directly correlates with the weight that many children have begun to put on (Gillman, Rifas-Shiman, Camargo, Berkey, Frazier, Rockett, Field, & Colditz, 2001)."
