masvida

By Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom The debate on whether the serving size of a soda should be regulated by the government is continuing to heat up. I’ve been writing about this controversial ban on selling soda with a limit of 16 ounces because this is a prime example of how food regulatory policies could be used help stem the obesity epidemic. The question remains: is this an effective strategy? It’s important to follow these new developments, as these decisions will likely impact implementation of policies like these in our region, and throughout the country. In response to the NYC Health Department’s ban on selling sodas larger than 16 ounces in places like movie theaters and restaurants, a lawsuit aimed at overturning this ban was filed by a consortium that includes the American Beverage Association, the National Restaurant Association, the soda workers union, and movie theatre owners. The argument is that such a ban would hurt small businesses and burden consumers, and it could even affect ...

By Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom When did the idea become acceptable that the personal weight issues of other people are somehow everybody’s business? Many people feel entitled to comment and judge others about whom they know nothing. They are who I call “weight bullies.” Weight bullies are occurring with increasing frequency, and I believe they are a big step in the wrong direction!  Here is a case in point: an overweight television anchor in Wisconsin received an email from a viewer commenting on her obesity. The remarks included (1) surprise that her physical condition had not improved over the years, (2) that she should present and promote a healthy lifestyle, and (3) that she was a poor role model, especially to girls. While many overweight and obese people are judged – both intentionally and accidentally – the usual response is silence and hurt feelings. Many patients have told me they feel obesity is the last “acceptable” area for open criticism and that they are not only hurt by c...

By Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom It’s not often that a rock star offers us an important public health message. Lady Gaga – real name Stefani Germanotta – is perhaps best known for her outrageous outfits (including her dress made from red meat!) and amazing singing voice. We know her as very thin, but she is now carrying an extra 25 pounds. Media buzz about the reasons for her weight gain abounds. She revealed that she has been a frequent guest at the restaurant her parents have recently opened. But she also revealed that she has struggled for years with an eating disorder, and that it was time to address and resolve the problem. This is a courageous and unusual step for such a public figure. Now, Lady Gaga’s focus is on getting to a healthy weight that she can maintain with healthy eating. And her message to millions of women (and maybe men) is that the desire for the “perfect weight” can get out of control and become a health negative. Her take-home message is that choosing and sustaining a h...

By Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom Here’s an update on the sugary drink debate and size limits that I wrote about back in June . New York City’s leadership proposed a ban on the sale of sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces. A huge debate followed, ranging from personal choice and cost issues to the increasing presence of the food police. All of this was speculation until the Board of Health voted on this hot button issue. You might be surprised to hear that this ban was recently approved.  The ban covers sodas and sugary drink blends, not 100% juice. Also excluded are dairy-based drinks containing at least 50 percent milk. Having thought a little more about this controversy, I wonder if size limit is really the issue – 16 ounces is two full cups (around 200 calories). Could the real issue be the idea that someone wants to limit personal food choice? It’s not like Americans are unaccustomed to smaller serving sizes. If you’re over 40 years old, you can recall a time when 16 ounces was consider...

By Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom You might have heard about calorie postings on fast-food menus in New York City, and elsewhere, and wonder if it will hit our region anytime soon. The answer is a definite YES. McDonald’s is taking a bold step in posting the calorie counts of all menu items, along side the prices. This will be in all restaurant locations across the nation. If you think this will make the signage a little cluttered, you’re right. Although it’s a lot of information to “digest,” it is very helpful to becoming an informed patron.  Opinions vary widely about this new policy. Advocates say it empowers consumers who want easy access to this information. Opponents find it to be a waste of time, especially when no one wants to know this information.  I say it’s a step in the right direction and can only help those who want to be more mindful. Those who are not interested can just ignore it. And that’s just what focus groups have found.   What do you think about calorie pos...

By Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom Earlier this week, I checked out the snacks at the mall and at the movies. Today I’ll take a look at what to eat at the airport and at sporting events. Remember that snacking is not a requirement for healthy eating. If you choose to include a snack or two, remember to count those calories as part of your daily intake. A reasonable guideline for a snack is 125-225 calories, or even less.    At the airport. You might be tempted to grab a big bag of nuts and raisins as a healthy choice for a snack. While that IS a heart-healthy combo and the calories sound right at about 150 per serving, there are often 5-6 servings per bag. Even with good intentions, it’s hard not to eat the whole bag! A better choice is a KIND bar, a minimal-ingredient bar that you are likely to find at any kiosk at the airport. You get the same great taste of fruit and nuts in a calorie-controlled bar (about 200 calories). Try a small skim milk latte for around 120 calories, and skip ...

By Dr. Madelyn  Fernstrom It’s hard to make healthy foods choices when you’re running around, and don’t have time to preplan. In the perfect world, you’d be carrying a fruit, or small protein bar, or a small bag of nuts when you need a snack. In the real world, this is much tougher. This week, I’m going to focus on four popular destinations for snacking:  the mall, the movie theatre, the ballpark, and the airport. While healthy eating does not require snacking, it’s an eating style that many people enjoy. One or two well-spaced snacks can be a great boost for weight control, as long as you account for those EXTRA calories. A loose definition of a snack is around 125-225 calories (it can be less). At the mall: If you’re looking for something sweet, try a small soft-serve frozen yogurt or ice milk (think Dairy Queen, McDonald’s, or I Can’t Believe It’s Yogurt). A one-cup serving is about 200 calories. Share with a friend and you’ve cut the calories in half. Skip the toppings to...