Fat people and education

At an informal gathering, I participated in a discussion about a proposed sugar tax in New Zealand. The conversation centered on the taxation of food, government over-intervention, and ways to encourage healthier eating. Everyone felt a moral obligation to improve people’s eating habits. However, we agreed that food has varying levels of usefulness and nutritional value for each person and has no inherent moral value.

A repeated suggestion was to educate people about food and its origins, especially the poor. But wealthy investors want to continue using any means to increase the profits of their genetically modified foods, including slave labor and abuse. People already understand food. Let me give you an example.

As I drive to work each morning, I pass a Domino’s pizza franchise. The other day, I noticed a poster for a meat-lovers pizza in their window. The calorie count was twice the size of the price, taking up a third of the page. It’s more important to tell people how many calories are in a pizza than its price. Who thinks that anyone buying a meat-lover pizza is ignorant or cares about calories? You’re either buying it cheap to feed a hungry family, or you want a greasy pizza and care about calories. You could put the calories in a big, scary font with flames, and people would still buy it because they want it or have no other option.

I have a problem with educating people about food, primarily when it’s aimed at poor people, who are the biggest consumers of fast/processed food. Fast/processed food is cheap, and the attitude that poor people need to be educated about food is classism, usually coming from the wealthy.

A person from a lower socioeconomic background knows more about food and its value than any affluent person. As someone who has lived through poverty, I can tell you we know everything about the food we spend our little money on. I would spend more time looking at the price than the nutritional value. I wanted the most filling, calorie-loaded food that would last the longest for the least amount of money. Poor people aren’t ignorant; they’re poor. They don’t choose fast food because they don’t know any better; they prefer it because it’s cheap, easy, filling, and available.

Fat people are often misunderstood as ignorant about food. However, I’ve been educated about food since childhood and am now 52. I’ve spent decades calculating food facts due to dieting and disordered eating habits. I’m not alone in this experience. Fat people are the least ignorant about food’s nutritional information. Poor people are often the least aware of it, too.

To help people eat more nutritious food, we must make it affordable. A living wage for fast food workers would make healthy food as expensive as fast food. Imagine working a long day to cover expenses and having little time to shop for and prepare vegetables. You need something quick, hot, and filling, which is why fast food workers often work long hours.

Enough ranting. I’m concerned about the addictive chemicals in low-cost food that keep me coming back for more. Withdrawal symptoms are here!

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

SteveQ

Having been in a grocery store and thinking "I need more Vitamins A and D and I only have $3; I'll buy milk," I can attest that poverty makes one keenly aware of nutrition. Occasional junk food is about the only luxury the poor can afford.  Sunday, March 1, 2015 at 1:26:33 PM CST

Valentines day 2015

I’ve never been much of a celebrator of special days. Birthdays, holidays, and other events have always been just another day, a trait I inherited from my upbringing and passed on to my son. I regret not teaching my son to appreciate and cherish these days more.

This is the first year I have had no choice but to ignore this special day. Yesterday, I fell ill, the worst flu / cold I have ever experienced. I had severe breathing difficulties, struggled to stand, and experienced rapid digestion. It could be a better way to avoid the required/desired Valentine's Day activities, but this year, I unintentionally escaped the mad rush to celebrate a special day.

Every day should be Valentine’s Day. Had I been patient and loving, my life would’ve been different. I’d’ve made each day special and carried that effort forward. Oh well, just another regret?

I need to rush to the restroom!

Carry on, my friends!

Wheat Belly

Wheat Belly, a captivating book, intrigued me after years of frustration with weight gain despite eating a relatively low-calorie diet. I’ve also explored the link between weight gain, obesity, and depression. Clinical studies show obesity and depression often co-occur without a cause-and-effect relationship. Scientists seek to understand their connection: does obesity cause depression, or vice versa? Could a third factor drive both? These questions guide research and treatment.

Our modern Western diet often drives obesity and depression. Excessive fructose, primarily from sugar and high-fructose corn syrup, contributes to insulin resistance and central obesity. Insulin resistance requires more insulin to drive glucose into cells, trapping fat inside cells that can’t be used for energy. Recent evidence suggests that excessive fructose intake alters gut bacterial flora, contributing to the development of metabolic syndrome and obesity.

Rapidly absorbed carbohydrates, especially from grains, cause unstable glucose levels and magnified glucose spikes. Over time, these spikes damage nerve cells because neurons lack an insulin gate, leading to loss of nerve function and neuropathy before other organs are affected.

Over time, toxic glucose spikes trigger diffuse brain dysfunction, impairing brain function. The first symptom is a craving for sweet and starchy food, leading to excessive consumption and brain damage. Mild brain dysfunction symptoms include fatigue, anxiety, mood swings, and poor sleep. At this stage, the symptoms are mild and variable, indicating the absence of a disease.

There are two types of obesity. The most common type is associated with insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and type II diabetes. The second type, MINE, occurs when excessive body fat develops without adverse metabolic markers. This type is seen in overfed healthy animals.

Obesity linked to sugar, HFCS, and grains isn’t due to calories or overeating. People with this type of obesity, like me, have excess body fat, especially in the abdomen.

After reading Wheat Belly, I explored the link between obesity and depression. I wanted to know about the connection between depression and people with “metabolic obesity” and those who were obese but metabolically healthy. People with metabolic issues were at a higher risk of developing depression, while those without were not.

How does this apply to me? I prefer not to be obese or depressed. If insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome are the leading causes of obesity and depression, the best strategy is to prevent or treat metabolic problems. To limit my intake of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome triggers, I should avoid sugar, HFCS, and high glycemic carbohydrates, especially from grains.

Indeed, this description accurately characterizes the majority of processed foods that constitute the foundation of the contemporary American diet. I am diligently endeavoring to adopt a diet rich in wholesome foods, encompassing meat, poultry, fish, seafood, vegetables, and fruits. While I am not particularly fond of milk due to its high sugar content, a moderate intake of cheese is acceptable. Additionally, I restrict my consumption of legumes due to their potential anti-nutrient properties. Some individuals may recognize this dietary approach as a Paleo-style approach. However, I prefer to refer to it as a healthy diet.

By adopting this dietary regimen, I anticipate making significant strides in mitigating the metabolic issues that appear to contribute to my obesity and depression.

Furthermore, I am aware that wheat is also associated with ADHD, PTSD, anxiety disorders, autism, fibromyalgia, and irritable bowel syndrome. I find this connection intriguing and believe there is a correlation between food and these prevalent disorders. Consider this: would I prefer to endure a lifetime of taking medication, experiencing a state of drowsiness, or modify my diet?

This pivotal study unequivocally demonstrates the correlation between the consumption of specific foods and depression. In the foreseeable future, we can expect to see an increase in research examining the impact of diet on common chronic diseases. My next reading will be Gary Taubes’ “Good Calories, Bad Calories” and “Why We Get Fat.”

I need to get a hold of this life, as the past year has been far from enjoyable.

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!

R.I.P. again

In my last post, I mentioned the passing of Steve Wilkinson. I’ve lost three friends in the first 34 days of 2015, which hasn’t been a good start.

Aaron Buffington, a fellow in my profession and a long-distance runner, lost his battle with cancer. I met him at work functions and later at the Superior 100 in 2011. We lost touch after his child was born, but I still consider him a friend.

I attended Steve Wilkinson’s visitation and funeral last weekend. It was a day of tears. What amazed me was meeting his daughters for the first time. They were shocked when I introduced myself and praised my work ethic and dedication. It was a humbling moment, as I had no idea my efforts had been recognized by someone as incredible as Steve. He was a great reader and knew I didn’t need praise to do my best.

It’s hard to believe he’s gone. Neal Halberg’s simple and authentic words at the funeral (available on YouTube) resonated deeply. Steve was an eternal optimist, and his attitude toward life is reflected in the “Psychology of Winning.” I wish I had prioritized my family over my career.

Even when faced with the world’s biggest jerk, Steve would smile, find a positive aspect, and promote good in everyone. Here’s what Neil read.        

Before Steve

• I did not know that an ego could be tamed with one prayer
• I did not realize that fear could be conquered with a smiley-faced racket
• I did not know that winning could mean losing 0-6 0-6
• Or losing could mean winning 6-0 6-0

Before Steve

• I did not know that simply saying a name could be the key to unlocking someone's soul.
• I did not know that "thank you" was as important as "I love you."
• I did not realize that having a vision meant not everyone would like you
• I did not know that silence might be the best advice a person can give 

Before Steve 

• I did not know that driving a ten-year-old car and living in the same modest house for forty years could make you rich in what matters.
• I did not know that Rol-Dri-ing a court - properly - could make one old guy so happy.
• I did not know that "I could" if I thought I could

Before Steve

• I did not know that grief could press you down onto your mattress for hours.
• And only love could make you get back up again.
• And I did not know that lifting one person up could make everyone around you fly.
• Including yourself.

Before Steve

• I did not know that the face of life and the face of death are the same: 
• A smile and a high-five

He should have mentioned Steve after him, but that’s just not possible. Everyone will eventually move on, but for this friend who’s a bit overweight, arrogant, and getting older, I’ll never forget him.

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!

RIP Steve Wilkinson

This week was challenging. I reflected on past thoughts. I sometimes wonder if everyone doubts their humanity, as I have. Mentors shape our lives and identities. In this blog, I wrote about my only mentor until I was a teenager: my grandfather. In high school, Mr. Gary Clark and Mr. Larry Anderson influenced me to take life seriously. I wonder if I’d be where I am today or in jail without them.

Until my son was born, I believed I naturally wanted to raise him to have a whole, emotional, yet stable life. I discovered a difference between accepting a boy should express his feelings freely and having one who does. In 1984, I attended Tennis and Life Camp, which left a lasting impact. I partially implemented its lessons in my life.  

Raising a child is challenging, and due to my emotional flaws, I became a single father. I wanted my son to have positive role models. His wise grandfather, a lawyer, raised a fine young man. The other role model was Steve Wilkinson, the founder of the Tennis and Life Tennis Camp. I decided my son should attend the camp.

Steve took my son under his wing because of his perceived handicap. He emphasized the importance of the three crowns in tennis and life.

1. The first crown symbolizes choosing positivity, focusing on controllable factors, and releasing control over uncontrollable ones. For instance, in competitions, winning or losing isn’t controllable, but your attitude is.

2. The second crown signifies a commitment to dedicating your utmost effort, irrespective of academic performance, feedback, or regrets.

3. The third crown embodies sportsmanship, and we consistently seek avenues to reinforce this principle. Consequently, I teach sports ethics, which harmonizes my interest in religion with sports—a profound intersection.

Therefore, I firmly believe my son had three fathers. Apart from his biological father, me, he also had his grandfather and Steve Wilkinson. Regrettably, Steve passed away this past week, leaving an indelible void in the hearts of many, including mine and, undoubtedly, my son’s.

If the readers of this post are unfamiliar with Steve, I recommend reading his memoir titled “Let Love Serve,” which he published before his demise. I highly suggest you take the time to read it, as it will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the essence of living life to the fullest.

We will attend Steve’s funeral next week, and I anticipate that I, for one, will experience a profound sense of difficulty. I believe my son will share in this sentiment as well. Losing such a revered figure is a profound and arduous experience. However, more than ever before in my life, we must reflect upon the invaluable lessons Steve imparted to me three decades ago and, in this moment, actively implement them.

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!

More thoughts

Recently, I read an article by Steve Cole, Professor of Medicine and Behavioral Sciences at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), on how chronic stress, poverty, loneliness, and fear endemic in crime can alter gene activity and contribute to disease. Cole examined how psychological experiences influence immune systems and human health. He is mapping the biological pathways through which social conditions change the expression of traits or tendencies encoded in genetic material.

This article resonated with me as I analyzed my life over the past 40 years (as I am currently 52 years old, and I am uncertain if there were any issues before my teenage years). I recall instances when my father was dismissed from his job, and we were concerned about affording the necessities of life. At the age of 13, I misrepresented my age and was employed as a dishwasher to help support the family’s needs. Balancing school and work while writing about the family was a significant source of stress, and I experienced weight gain and a decline in my health.

At the age of 16, the family’s financial situation was stable, and I had few, if any, worries. I had learned to manipulate my father’s emotions, which resulted in him ceasing physical abuse of my mother and sister. I developed a strong memory and ensured that everything conformed to my father’s controlling nature. This created a sense of harmony, thereby reducing stress and fear. Consequently, I naturally became physically fit and had minimal health issues.

At the age of 20, a significant disruption occurred in my life. My sister’s relationship with an African American individual led to a severe reaction from my father, resulting in the ostracism of my sister and me within the family. This incident stemmed from my support for her relationship, which was reciprocated by her. Consequently, I experienced substantial weight gain and various health issues.

By the age of 23, I had achieved a state of contentment, with no familial ties other than my sister. I had successfully lost weight, participated in Division II tennis, and completed a 35-minute 10K run. Life appeared stable, and I was free from significant worries or stress.

Upon graduation, I embarked on a challenging journey into the external world. Securing employment proved difficult, even with a degree in hand. I subsequently married, relocated multiple times, and now faced the stresses, fears, and anxieties associated with being a husband and a father.

Reflecting on the past three instances of weight loss and improved health, it is evident that these periods coincided with periods of minimal stress and fear in my life.

The study had a profound impact on me, surpassing my initial expectations. I recognize the need to develop strategies for managing stress, fear, and anxiety. While I am uncertain about the specific knowledge I will acquire, I would appreciate any recommendations you may have regarding books, techniques, or other relevant information.

One undeniable truth is that life is a journey. For some, it is a brief one, as exemplified by my nephew Aaron Swanson, who passed away at the tender age of three. For others, it is a protracted journey, as witnessed by my grandfather, who succumbed to the ravages of time just short of the century mark. Currently, I find myself situated between these two extremes.

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!

The power of positive thinking

How many times have you heard that phrase? I once believed that health was the most essential aspect of life, including physical well-being. However, it has become a part of everyday vernacular that has almost lost its meaning. We all agree that positive thinking is beneficial. Nevertheless, it is challenging to express my own positive feelings, such as “I like myself. My life is enjoyable. Things are going well.”

However, what about when things are difficult? What about those days when I experience such stress that my veins protrude from my forehead? What about those times when I dislike my job? What about the days when I feel overwhelmed by a series of unfortunate events?

I have encountered individuals who maintain a positive outlook during challenging times. In all honesty, their Pollyanna “life is still beautiful” attitude when things fall apart is somewhat irritating. Although I fully comprehend that positive thinking can have a tangible impact on the brain.

Neuroplasticity, a scientific concept, posits that our thoughts can alter the structure and function of our brains. Initially introduced by William James in 1890, this idea was met with skepticism from scientists who held the belief that the brain was a rigidly mapped entity, with specific regions responsible for distinct functions. Damage or death to these areas would result in the loss or alteration of their associated functions. However, this notion has been proven erroneous. Neuroplasticity is now widely accepted as evidence of the brain’s boundless adaptability and dynamism.

The human brain possesses the remarkable capacity to undergo structural changes, even in individuals with severe neurological conditions. Individuals experiencing strokes, cerebral palsy, and mental illnesses can train other brain regions through repetitive mental and physical activities. These interventions can have profound and life-altering effects.

This concept leads us to the realm of positive thinking and its potential impact on the brain. Repetitive positive thoughts and positive activities can indeed rewire our brains and strengthen the areas responsible for generating positive emotions, as highlighted in the acclaimed book “The Brain That Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science” by Norman Doidge. The brain has the remarkable ability to rewire itself and establish new neural pathways through consistent effort. Similar to exercise, this process requires repetition and active engagement to reinforce new learning. The book provides insights into specific actions that individuals can take to modify their brains during challenging times.

A crucial aspect is overcoming the fear of failure. I often harbor apprehension about undertaking new endeavors due to the apprehension of potential failure. This sentiment has only become evident in recent years. It is imperative that I consciously refrain from dwelling on the reasons that hinder my ability to accomplish tasks, even when I lack the necessary courage or self-assurance. Whenever negative thoughts arise, I must actively retrain my mind to adopt a positive perspective on my capabilities.

I frequently find myself ensnared in obsessive overthinking regarding a particular problem or experiencing prolonged periods of anxiety and worry that can span weeks or even months. This state of mind depletes my energy, disrupts my sleep patterns, and adversely affects my mood and outlook. Concentrating solely on my problem should inadvertently reinforce the worry function within my brain. When I find myself caught in this cycle of worry or compulsive thinking, it is essential to recall the three R’s: rename, re-frame, and redirect. Rename the issue by reminding myself that worry is not a tangible reality but rather a compulsive reaction. Re-frame my thinking by focusing on positive or distracting thoughts, even if I still experience anxiety.

Some individuals accuse me of experiencing a state of melancholy or disorientation, which is merely a transient haze that subsides and dissipates after a few days. However, certain mood disorders, such as depression or severe anxieties that evolve into phobias, can be debilitating and persistent. I have contemplated cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Indeed, numerous symptoms align with the principles of CBT. These include:

• Loss of senses — vision, balance, and hearing
• The aging brain and memory
• Issues related to love and sex
• Chronic pain
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Depress

In light of this, I must prioritize my mental well-being and refrain from self-criticism. My objective is to comprehend the concept and address the challenges discussed thoroughly. Time will reveal the outcome. One of my most effective motivation sources was Dennis Waitley’s “Psychology of Winning.” I must revisit this book and strive to improve my cognitive abilities and address detrimental behaviors.

This is crucial as I anticipate undergoing surgery in early February. My current physical condition necessitates a change. While I initially sought non-surgical alternatives, it appears that surgical intervention is the only viable option.

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!

Welcome 2015

Regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, achieving effective weight loss, reducing stress, and enhancing productivity. Experts recommend 60 minutes daily for optimal health. However, excessive exercise can lead to serious health issues, even death.

I find it challenging to find 20 minutes daily for workouts. It’s surprising that I once prioritized exercise above all else, often pushing myself to burn every calorie. Is this a factor in my heart problems?

I often wonder if my periods of compulsive exercise are necessary for weight management. Despite running a 4-hour marathon at 230 pounds, a doctor labeled me obese at 35-40 pounds overweight. This was a blow to my self-esteem, as I felt tremendous despite my hard work.

I never engaged in exercise bulimia or excessive eating, but I recall giving up based on the doctor’s words. Now, at 70 pounds heavier, I’m not happy.

I’m trying to regain control. I recently bought an IHealth scale and plan to reach 230, content with being obese. I hope I succeed because I feel better, die with less stress, and enjoy life. This time, I won’t let my rude doctor lower my self-esteem by calling me obese.

In addition to addressing my work-life balance, I must also manage my health and well-being. In 2012, I consistently worked over 70 hours per week. However, I reduced this to 63 hours in 2013 and further decreased it to an average of 59.3 hours in 2014. It is important to note that these figures represent my actual work hours divided by 52 weeks. They include my two weeks of vacation for the bike ride, my trip to Vermont, and the time off for my son’s surgery. While my actual work hours may exceed 63 hours per week, I am actively working to limit myself to 10 hours per day and reduce the number of weekends I work. This approach is intended to address the misconception that overtime pay is advantageous, as my hourly rate is comparable to that of an administrative assistant.

To address both issues, I must prioritize my health and well-being, as I am currently experiencing ticker issues. I am committed to avoiding surgery, which will undoubtedly present challenges.

In the meantime, I continue to refine my photography skills. Here are some samples of my work:

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!