By now you’re probably heard something about of all of the very real health concerns that arise when people of any age have too much sugar in their diets. Childhood obesity, heart disease, and diabetes are becoming serious problems not just in the U.S.A, but around the world. While high sugar consumption alone is not the sole reason for these issues, it is a leading factor. The fact is that all around the western world people are leading busier lives, and relying more and more on the convenience of prepackaged foods, a.k.a processed foods, and fast foods. These types of food items contain dubious amounts of added sugar, along with a host of other unhealthy ingredients. One of the worst offenders would undoubtedly be the soda and sugary drink industry. Containing between 11 and 13 teaspoons of sugar per 12 oz can, one of these beverages is well above the maximum recommended daily amount of 6 – 9 teaspoons.

Some people, like Jamie Oliver, believe that creating a tax for purchasing sugary drinks would help deter people from buying them, while the tax money collected could be used to benefit the community by funding schools or medical services. In his mind it’s a win-win. I do understand his thought process, and I admire his gumption to stand up for what he believes in. However, I don’t think, in the big picture, it’s going to have the impact needed to help solve the sugar problem.

Jamie had another idea that I think was brilliant, though. It was about labeling food to clearly state how many teaspoons of sugar the package contained, giving the consumer the information needed to make an educated purchase. I love that idea. Education and clear labeling are great ways to combat these health situations. I believe that people truly want to feel well, be healthy, and look good, too. If they are armed with information, and educated in proper nutrition, people will make better choices for themselves and their families. I mean, not to many people I know wake up and say, “gee I’d really like to make my body fat, and sick, and shorten my lifespan today.”

Overall, the important thing is to get people talking, and Jamie’s campaign against the cola companies is one heck of a conversation starter. To hear more about what he had to say on the subject during a recent interview, click on the link below.

What are your thoughts on this topic? I’d love to know. Please comment or reach out to me by email at [email protected]

Until next time, be well, stay strong, and have a great day!

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