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October 13 2004
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Portion Distortion Shrinks Candy Bars

 

Due to the concern of portion distortion, king-sized Snickers and Mars candy bars that are sold in Britain will be cut down on size. With the growing number of overweight adults and children, manufacturers are taking a step toward reducing those numbers by dividing the candy bars into two sharable portions.

Action was taken after the emergence of McDonald’s health-conscience actions such as pedometers in their adult “happy meals” and offering an array of salad choices. Manufacturers have also decided to proceed in limiting portions due to Britain’s Food and Drug Federation’s proposal to reduce over-consumption.

Other issues addressed by the federation:

  • Labeling
  • Advertising to children
  • Vending machines
  • Public education

Those pushing to take action in reducing obesity are encouraged to see the food industry getting involved and acknowledging the need for a solution to this weight gain problem.

According to studies, within the past two decades, portion amounts of candy bars, drinks and other waist-boosting foods have grown significantly:

  • Cookies: Bite-sized to Frisbee-sized
  • Hamburgers: 112 percent increase
  • Bagels: 95 percent increase
  • Pasta servings: 480 percent increase

Health issues have also been addressed in relation to obesity. The risk of heart disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer have become more prevalent with weight gain. Health experts are really pushing obesity awareness on marketing and advertising companies, who frequently encourage over-consumption. Experts are hoping these efforts will motivate people to opt for healthier food choices.

MSNBC September 27, 2004



Dr. Mercola Dr. Mercola's Comments:

Super-sizing tempts you to spend more money to buy extra calories you don't need. And king-sized candy bars certainly fit right into this category.Those extra calories may make you feel like you are getting a bargain and may even seem like a quick fix for an overwhelming craving, but keep in mind these huge portions are also contributing to the country's 66 percent rate of adult obesity.

The taming of sweet cravings and junk foods are a struggle for many people, however those who exercise on a consistent basis will know the answer to curbing these cravings—significant cardiovascular exercise. It always amazes me how my appetite, especially for sweets, dramatically decreases after exercise.

In a past newsletter article I wrote about how Japanese investigators have performed rat experiments that validate this exercise/sweet craving link. My guess is the mechanism is related to a dramatic reduction in insulin levels after exercise.

Elevated insulin levels are one of the primary reasons for food cravings and if insulin levels are reduced, many of these cravings disappear. So if you haven't already picked up the exercise habit, here is a powerful motivation to do so if you struggle with sweet cravings.

Grains and sugars are often an overlooked addiction and the way to manage any addiction is though complete abstinence.

The reason most people struggle with giving up sugar is that they are still eating grains. The grains break down to sugar and perpetuate the addiction. Eliminating grains and sugars and eating properly for your metabolic type are discussed in detail in my new book, Dr. Mercola’s Total Health Program.

So again, the solution is total abstinence from grains and sugars.

The amazing thing that happens is that in about three days, the cravings disappear.

It is important to note that it is wise to eat some animal protein and a small amount of vegetables every two hours while awake when first starting this approach.

This will compensate for the secondary hypoglycemia that tends to occur when stopping suddenly stopping sugars and grains. These symptoms would be lightheadedness, fatigue, headache and a decrease in the ability to focus and concentrate.

This is only necessary to do for several days, as after that time most people's insulin levels will come into a new balance.

So, instead of reaching for a candy bar to satisfy your next sweet craving, you should try Cocochia, The Ultimate Snack Fuel, as it is the much healthier alternative. This energizing, guilt-free mix of coconut and chia seeds will provide important vitamins and may even reduce risk for diabetes.

It’s important to remember that no matter how devoted you are to a healthy lifestyle, it is nearly impossible to reach your goals if emotional barriers stand in your way. EFT uses a combination of kinetic energy input and positive affirmations to release you of your emotional "blocks."

You can view our recently updated EFT manual free of charge. If you seek more in-depth knowledge of the EFT technique, my EFT series is available on DVD or VHS. The series will teach you how to relieve most emotional traumas, abolish phobias, overcome food cravings and eliminate or greatly reduce physical pain. You can also make an appointment with an expert to help you with the EFT process.

Related Articles:

Modify Your Diet so You Feel Terrific

To Succeed at Any Diet, You Must Know Your nutritional type

How is Fat Killing You?

Overweight and Obesity Rates Still at Alarming Levels

Is Fast Food Addictive?

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