The “Glad You Asked” section by Timi Gustafson R.D. has been added in response to questions by our readers about Health and Lifestyle issues. Her regular monthly column will continue as always.
My friend and I have an ongoing argument over the right way to diet. We both are trying to lose weight but have different opinions about the best approach. I favor the old fashion way by cutting back on food, especially junk food and snacks. My friend insists that she can eat as often and, within reason, as much as she wants, as long as she avoids food that is high in fat, sugar and carbs. Is she right?
Dear Reader,
No, she’s not – although the answer is more complicated. People have been arguing over the most efficient way to lose weight since – well, since weight has become an issue. There’s no shortage of “revolutionary” diet solutions out there, all promising you quick and lasting results. They differ mostly in their focus on particular components in your diet – such as carbohydrates, protein and fat. Are some better than others? Probably. But their success also depends on other factors. The consensus among dietitians is that controlled calorie intake is the most important issue. If you have a tendency to overindulge in certain foods, it doesn’t really matter whether they are low-fat or even fat-free. If you want to lose weight, you must keep track of your calorie intake – period. Of course, high-fat foods are also highly caloric, while low-fat foods may contain fewer calories. But that doesn’t mean that less fat equals automatically less calories. And there are no food items – not even the non-fat kind – that have zero calories.
In my opinion, the most effective diets are the ones that fit you the best. By that I mean diets that match your personality and your lifestyle. The more a diet plan demands of you, the less likely you will stick with it over time – unless you’re one of those overachievers who love pain and punishment. My advice is to stay with the approach you’ve taken, as long as it works for you. However, do make sure that you don’t deprive your body of the nutrients it really needs. When you cut back on food intake, it is especially important that you maintain a high level of nutritional quality of the food you do eat.
As for your friend, I would say, let her find out for herself what’s right for her. The only thing that really matters is that you both get what you want.
For many years, I have been careful to buy only organically grown produce. Unfortunately, organic fruits and vegetables are becoming more and more expensive than the non-organic version. I’m convinced that organic foods taste better and are overall healthier. I‘m also concerned about health risks posed by pesticides, fertilizers and other agricultural pollutants. However, I begin to wonder whether the difference in quality is worth the ever increasing costs.
Dear Reader,
Yes, there is a significant price difference between organically and non-organically grown produce – as much as 50 percent and more, depending where you do your shopping. Whether it’s worth it to spend that much more money is a matter of personal choice.
Originally, organic farming started out as a grassroots movement. The initial intent may have been to return to pre-industrial farming methods, whatever people thought they were. In that sense, organic farming was first and foremost a countercultural phenomenon. But then the whole thing evolved into a profitable industry and the federal government became involved by putting out strict regulations and giving it its own seal of approval. Consequently, many common agricultural practices were restricted – such as the use of certain pesticides and fertilizers as well as certain animal farming methods – in return for the government’s endorsement. Unfortunately, many of these policies, as well-intended as they may have been, have also caused widespread confusion among consumers. As a result, a lot of myths have been created about the meaning of organic farming.
Since I cannot address here all the pros and cons of organic versus regular farm products, let me just make a few sketchy remarks: Limiting your exposure to toxic chemicals, whether they stem from pesticides, fertilizers or unsound animal farming methods, is always a good idea and, if necessary, worth the extra investment. However, “organic” does not automatically mean “safe,” it does not even have to mean “healthy.” You can buy “organic” crackers or cookies – that does not make them more nutritionally beneficial than others. I personally prefer to buy foods that are “locally grown,” or use “sustainable farming methods.” Why? Because it gives me a chance to meet my food suppliers directly. By developing personal relationships with local farmers at the farmers market or by visiting their farms, I’m in a much better position to judge the quality of the food I’m buying. Last but not least, buying directly from the source also eliminates the middleman, making the prices more affordable.
