Nutrition News Roundup: From the FAT to the THIN: Different Forms of Government, Different Proposals

Stemming from the troubles associated with obesity epidemic in America, President Obama admits, "There's no doubt our kids drink way too much soda. And every study that's been done about obesity shows that there is as high a correlation between increased soda consumption and obesity."

Obama hopes to alleviate this problem, at least fractionally, by imposing a 3 cent tax on soda and sweetened drinks. Money from the tax, approximately 24 billion over 4 yrs, will be used on Obama’s proposed universal health plan.

Sounds like one healthy proposal! Even though an additional 3 cents wouldn’t prevent me from making a purchase, at least it’s a start!

On the opposite end of the spectrum, France is having issues not with the overly overweight, but with the overly thin!

This bill, instead, seeks to address the fashion industry’s use of ultra-thin models, since the 2006 death of  a 21-year-old top model who weighed 88 lbs.

If the bill passes it will target any means of mass communication, including the internet and magazines, that promote eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, or anything having to do with “extreme thinness,” with 3 years in prison and more than $70,000 in fines.

Although the White House and Parliament are addressing two separate issues, they are both promoting healthy body images and lifestyles, endeavors that must be commended.

I hope the proposals get passed!

To read more on this topic visit:

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/2009/09/08/2009-09-08_president_obama_says_sin_tax_on_sodas_is_food_for_thought.html

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/04/15/the-french-rethink-thin/