An Old Approach

Almost daily, we hear reports of the growing numbers of people who are not just overweight but obese. It is a growing problem! Not just here in the States but in Britain as well. There are many diet fads. There are also numerous shows on channels such as Discovery. There is one show I think has the best approach: You Are What You Eat. Each show features one person who wants to lose weight and become healthier. A table is spread out showing and the person is shown just what he is eating and drinking. Many are dumbfounded that they could stuff themselves with so much food.

After that shock, blood tastes are done. The person is also subjected to having their poo analyzed and Gillian McKeith gives the viewing audience a very graphic description of its texture and stench.

Next, McKeith designs a diet around the specific needs of the person. There was one man featured whose alcoholic intake was the culprit of his obesity. It isn't so much the diet which is instrumental in helping the person lose weight. The diets McKeith designs are very high in vegetables and some of the key ones are green leafy vegetables.

The diet helps and the exercise plan also helps. The key concept of this show is that the person who is seeking to lose weight has to prepare their own food. From the gross looking smoothies made of spinach to the appetizing all vegetable stews: each person has to cut, dice, chop, and then cook their meals. No prepared food is allowed.

At the end of 8 weeks, you can see a marked change in the person's appearance. Some is partly the make-up but you can see the health and vibrancy underlying the make-up. The show just features the first 8 weeks. The diets and exercising continue.

It is fascinating to watch each persons growing intimacy with the foods they are eating. From the preparation, the colors and smells enhance their anticipation of what they are about to eat. The aromas from cooking whet the appetite as well. Then they taste the different textures of the food they have just prepared. They grow to love food in a much better and healthier way.

By having to prepare their own food, instant gratification is delayed. Instead of being gulped, it is savored.

I think the key to the success of any diet is gaining a greater appreciation of food. Everyday, there are numerous advertisements for tv dinners which are supposed to help the dieter. You stick it in the microwave and viola, instant gratification! While the meals are healthier it doesn't change a person's outlook about food. It is still instant gratification.

Shows like You Are What You Eat and Discovery's National Health Challenge do more. They are an old approach to eating. And a much better one.