By Jeff Harrison
PHC General Manager

Forget the diets!  Forget the gimmicks! Forget the pills, powders, and supplements!  The REAL issue with our nutritional problem in this country begins at a much more “elementary” level.  Have a look:

I can only imagine how many kids would recognize a box of Fruit Loops, a bag of Lays, Oreos, Coca-Cola, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and of course, the Golden Arches.  Who’s to blame? We’ve allowed our media to educate and influence our children on what is good for them and what they should eat, and perhaps a large part of the adult population as well.  What about the schools?  Are they teaching basic nutritional knowledge? Are the school lunches even remotely healthy? (I know of a school that has a baked potato bar as a scheduled lunch!).

It Has To Begin At Home

Having an Italian mother cook meals every night for dinner is something I am eternally grateful for.  But what she taught me most was what a well balanced meal looked like (I could identify most everyday vegetables and loved them, even if they were canned) and why they were such an important part of my growth.  There was always fruit in the house and yes, occasionally there were treats such as tasykakes, ice cream, and a trip to the local fast food joint.  But they were the exception, not the norm.  I know all too well that is not the case today.  Our health and diet issues are only going to be rectified if we take charge in the home.  And that may have to begin with strengthening your own knowledge of nutrition first.