If you missed the premier of Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution on ABC, March 26th, go to http://abc.go.com/shows/jamie-olivers-food-revolution to download and view. Jamie is taking on American nutrition, and he begins at the most unhealthy place in the nation – Huntington, West Virginia. Don’t be too quick to point a finger at Huntington, though, or think that their eating habits aren’t typical. Instead, recognize the show for what it is. It’s a wake-up call for everyone in this country, that we had better change our ways now, or we will suffer health and financial consequences for generations to come. Hats off to Jamie for taking on this gorilla of a problem, and if nothing else, illuminating it for all to see.
The title of Jamie’s show is appropriate, for truly a revolution needs to happen. When kindergarten students can’t identify fresh vegetables such as tomatoes, potatoes, cauliflower, and eggplant, it means parents aren’t serving fresh foods such as these at home. That’s where good eating habits and food preferences need to start. The USDA should then support parents’ effort by scrutinizing, and changing, nutritional qualifications that allow what is essentially rubbish to be served at school breakfasts and lunches. School administrators, and also taxpayers, must stop looking at only the financial bottom line and start offering real food that is freshly prepared and healthy. Food manufacturers have an obligation to make products free of harmful processed ingredients and excess calories. Marketers shouldn’t make children the target of ads promoting junk food. The list goes on.
Suffice it to say that everyone in this country is needed in this revolution, because revolutions don’t take place with people sitting on the sidelines. This includes you. Take a look at your personal habits regarding eating and exercise. Are you the role model you need to be in order to make this revolution happen? If not, start making changes today. Eat 5 servings of veggies , 4 servings of fruit, and take a walk around the block every day. Start slow and simple, then go from there. The important thing is to at least start. You owe it to yourself, and this country’s future.
The author submits this blog posting as a health educator and not in any other capacity. You should seek the advice of your physician regarding a personal health condition or before undertaking any diet, exercise, or other health program.
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