Food & Drink

Is the answer to happiness actually hidden in the food that we consume, each and every day?

Food & Drink

Posted by: Rainbow

15th Jun 2011 12:16pm

Whilst many health authorities preach the benefits of consuming an organic diet, practically speaking, this just isn't an option for many households with prices being exceedingly higher than that of standard produce. It seems people these days wouldn't falter at getting a loan for a fancy car, new boat or a huge TV, yet when it comes to fuel for the body, spending more money on a higher quality of produce just doesn’t appeal. Is there not a direct relationship between food and our mood? If we eat well, we feel well, right? By introducing this simple concept into our lives, surely we’ll have more energy, a positive outlook and new found tools to assist our brains in working more efficiently and productively. In turn, this will enable us to make more money, thus allowing us to buy the big cars and the new boats! Is it a catch 22? Perhaps we have it all wrong…

Comments 131

elljay
  • 31st Mar 2016 05:33pm

elljay
  • 31st Mar 2016 05:29pm

Maybe... Tim tams and a glass of milk is definitely a key to my happiness at times.

elljay
  • 31st Mar 2016 12:56am

Sometimes Tim tams and a glass of milk are an answer to my happiness

elljay
  • 31st Mar 2016 12:55am

Sometimes Tim tams and a glass of milk are an answer to my happiness.

kreative
  • 27th Dec 2011 11:16am

I have a weight issue that I am working on. Hasn't made a difference from when we were in hard times or not particularly. I didn't eat take away or junk all the time. In fact, one of my biggest problems was in skipping meals. I would go all day without eating and just eat a normal size main meal. Wondered why I had a headache when I had not consumed food or water all day!

I lost a lot of weight doing weight watchers and aqua aerobics but couldn't shift any more til going on a gluten free diet which coincided with eating lots of raw veg/salads. I start with warm water and lemon, then 15 minutes later I have raw veg juice.

I have also found since stopping artificial sweeteners that a lot of aches and pains have gone. I use stevia the most.

My gluten intolerance showed up when I was eating frozen lean meals for work every day. I don't recommend them, Now, if I want convenience, I use LaZuppa soups. They are gluten and dairy free, are like home made and don't have the preservatives in them.

I have also gone to using goat milk and goat milk yoghurt from the health food store.

It IS costing me a fortune to eat well. But, it also costs a fortune to live on frozen meals and take away.

I go to the markets to get the fresh produce and this works to save as even if a lot of the products aren't always cheaper, they taste better and are fresher so they last.

Anonymous
  • 24th Dec 2011 01:43pm

No we dont have it wrong, it is so so important to look after our bodies and our bodies are what we \eat, so having the luxury items actually mean nothng when you are getting ill and cannot enjoy the finer things in life.
Our bodies need to be fuelled bu]y the right foods and excercise without it we are not living a fullfilling healthy life.

Ali
  • 3rd Aug 2011 10:37am

While it's good to cut down on most of the crap... processed foods etc, you don't need to cut it all out. You're children will hate it if they can't have soft drink, and when they start drinking it, the colouring and sugar will effect them.

You just need to moderate what stuff you eat. Yes, its much better to eat a meal that you prepared yourself. The fresh ingredients do your body a world of good. But you can splurge every once in a while with a cheeseburger :P

Zarah
  • 26th Jun 2011 06:00pm

While the idea seems to be accepted on a wide basis, I don't necessarily believe in the concept. Happiness is an emotion that can be instigated by a number of factors- food being one of them, but not as the prime source. Happiness is a feeling that is felt when something/someone helps in lighting up your day, your mood, your life.
Food is the source of energy, and if a person hasn't eaten in a while, it may bring them back to life, so to say. But I personally think that happiness is something that comes naturally to you, when you're happy. You don't need to 'find' these factors of causing the emotion :)

Yankeedoodle
  • 22nd Jun 2011 05:31pm

Sorry, I agree to an extent but it really comes down to the environment we are living in. In saying that our houses are making us all sick because we don't take the toxins out and it is pretty simple because all you need to do is once a day open all the doors and windows and air your house out for about an hour just like you mother or grandmother used to do. I clean and sanitise carpets and mattresses and have been to many seminars on this and it is the simple things that we can do to live a healthy life. If you want a good read go into google and type in Dr. Peter Dingle who is a toxicologist and you will get a true awakening.

Analog6
  • 20th Jun 2011 09:22am

I firmly believe fresh is best. We evolved as hunter gatherers, which meant we ate what we could catch or gather. So this was a naturally low carb and low GI diet, with seasonal roots veges, fruits, herbs etc. I know I feel far better when I stick to that sort of diet, but my big downfall is the humble spud, which I love.

Being highly gluten intolerant as well (not actually coeliac but white flour products make me feel pretty awful) this is the way I should eat. Our older generation weren't too far off with the meat and 3 veg.

hoppy55555
  • 19th Jun 2011 08:10pm

May I please say that it is a topic that every person has there own belief.My belief is that we are what we eat.My upbringing was by a single mother whom had differant one to mine.There were 4 very young children,brought up with almost no food,clothing or control.My eldest sister has gone through the same as my mother.My brother was in the military for over 20years,he has worked very hard to achive all his success.I am a retired FPO being injured at work.l know that if people take the time to prepare their meals.The costs,even though high,can be reasonable.Living on the disabled pension makes every dollar count.The more food is made interesting,the more it is enjoyed.Also I have met some really nice people at the markets,whom have given really nice recipes.If my spelling is bad a say sorry.I was told that I was in a coma for over 10 months,when injuried

sduds
  • 19th Jun 2011 02:57pm

I believe that true happiness only comes with being comfortable with yourself, family and friends, as well as having something to look forward to each day.Too many people are at loggerheads with their job, family members or don't have a reason to get up in the morning, so food is often used as a substitute to make them feel happy or for something to do. This is especially true of the unemployed (often through no fault of their own) so fast food acts as a comforter and fills in the day. Some people also do not have a family history of being brought up on homemade foods, and without blame, have no idea how to cook healthy, fulfilling meals.This perpetuates through the generations. Schools are making inroads to provide young people with the knowledge to cook healthy, balanced meals, but more needs to be done on a community/govt level to equip parents with the same skills. Having said that, a chocolate bar, cake or occasional meal of fish and chips will always bring a smile to most faces !

gabesmate
  • 19th Jun 2011 12:32pm

The thing is, it is actually less expensive to eat lots of fruit and veges and other foods that are good for you, and to avoid the fattening foods. It is totally unnecessary to buy organic foods. Organic is good, but no better than foods which are not organic. Just wash all produce very well, and cook as little as possible. For those of us who are meat eaters, always get good bargains. Do not ever pay full price. Buy up, freeze, and use when wanted. In fact, where possible buy everything when they are at a sale price. It works for me. Eat well, avoid fattening foods (except for ice-cream in my case, and even that is low fat), and do a lot of things. Do not use transport if its possible to walk. If you live in a house you may have a little space outside to make a garden bed, and grow some of your own produce. It doesn't take a lot of space, and the results are good. It's even possible to grow some greens or tomatoes in a large pot. I've done this in the past when I lived in a place which had no land, but did have a good sunny spot. Get plenty of exercise. There's no way that you'll put weight on if you get lots of exercise & are very careful of what you eat. Trust me, eat well, do plenty, and your life will improve. As for spending too much & buying things. Forget it. Buy only what you really want, forget fashions and enjoy life. Be yourself, and forget what the rest of the world is doing, and you'll feel a lot better. There is no law that says you must have everything bigger and newer and better. This is ridiculous and wasteful. Be yourself always and try not to be too influenced by the opinions of others, and you'll be fine. Life is good.

gabesmate
  • 19th Jun 2011 12:31pm

The thing is, it is actually less expensive to eat lots of fruit and veges and other foods that are good for you, and to avoid the fattening foods. It is totally unnecessary to buy organic foods. Organic is good, but no better than foods which are not organic. Just wash all produce very well, and cook as little as possible. For those of us who are meat eaters, always get good bargains. Do not ever pay full price. Buy up, freeze, and use when wanted. In fact, where possible buy everything when they are at a sale price. It works for me. Eat well, avoid fattening foods (except for ice-cream in my case, and even that is low fat), and do a lot of things. Do not use transport if its possible to walk. If you live in a house you may have a little space outside to make a garden bed, and grow some of your own produce. It doesn't take a lot of space, and the results are good. It's even possible to grow some greens or tomatoes in a large pot. I've done this in the past when I lived in a place which had no land, but did have a good sunny spot. Get plenty of exercise. There's no way that you'll put weight on if you get lots of exercise & are very careful of what you eat. Trust me, eat well, do plenty, and your life will improve. As for spending too much & buying things. Forget it. Buy only what you really want, forget fashions and enjoy life. Be yourself, and forget what the rest of the world is doing, and you'll feel a lot better. There is no law that says you must have everything bigger and newer and better. This is ridiculous and wasteful. Be yourself always and try not to be too influenced by the opinions of others, and you'll be fine. Life is good.

gabesmate
  • 19th Jun 2011 12:30pm

The thing is, it is actually less expensive to eat lots of fruit and veges and other foods that are good for you, and to avoid the fattening foods. It is totally unnecessary to buy organic foods. Organic is good, but no better than foods which are not organic. Just wash all produce very well, and cook as little as possible. For those of us who are meat eaters, always get good bargains. Do not ever pay full price. Buy up, freeze, and use when wanted. In fact, where possible buy everything when they are at a sale price. It works for me. Eat well, avoid fattening foods (except for ice-cream in my case, and even that is low fat), and do a lot of things. Do not use transport if its possible to walk. If you live in a house you may have a little space outside to make a garden bed, and grow some of your own produce. It doesn't take a lot of space, and the results are good. It's even possible to grow some greens or tomatoes in a large pot. I've done this in the past when I lived in a place which had no land, but did have a good sunny spot. Get plenty of exercise. There's no way that you'll put weight on if you get lots of exercise & are very careful of what you eat. Trust me, eat well, do plenty, and your life will improve. As for spending too much & buying things. Forget it. Buy only what you really want, forget fashions and enjoy life. Be yourself, and forget what the rest of the world is doing, and you'll feel a lot better. There is no law that says you must have everything bigger and newer and better. This is ridiculous and wasteful. Be yourself always and try not to be too influenced by the opinions of others, and you'll be fine. Life is good.

Bellxchat
  • 19th Jun 2011 11:40am

There have been countless studies that show a relationship between food & mood. Food is our fuel, and the higher-grade fuel we eat/drink, the more energy/health/vitality/zest we will have. It's pretty simple really: eat real food. (Note: simple doesn't always mean easy). I'm 53, past menopause, and weigh the same as I did when I was 21. I eat lots of good food, walk every day, do light weights, and get proper sleep.

orient
  • 18th Jun 2011 07:57pm

The real benefits of food and what each food contains is vital to the body to grow and maintain good health. By eating well and maintaining a balance of exercise. it can makes one happy, the way you look, and the hormones that produce within the body lies in most foods. Food is a good contributor to health and happiness, Eating well makes one energetic, food also alters moods in people. "Eat and be Merry"
By Nancy

Anonymous
  • 18th Jun 2011 02:12pm

It has always annoyed me , that obese people sit there with their, salads and pour salt or fat dressing all over it . Than conplain that they can't lose weight I feel that we need to bring back the back yard vegie patch, so younger children can see how good food is grown and enjoy eating it

Anonymous
  • 18th Jun 2011 01:53pm

This is so true many individuals would rather go out and spend lots of money on takeaway which would make them feel good when they eat but later on would be lethargic and heavy and would also end up costing more than if they were to go and buy some simple fresh ingredients and cook something up quickly which hardly takes anytime and would also be good for their bodies/minds and overall health in general - I think most of the times one tends to get the easy way out stating that I am too tired to cook which results in takeaway in the first place and must say I am guilty too sometimes then after eating it would regret about it that could have been better if i had russeld up something at home

Anonymous
  • 18th Jun 2011 01:50pm

Lynjoy
  • 17th Jun 2011 01:15pm

Fresh Foods etc. Vegs & Fruit & Water to drink,

gabesmate
  • 17th Jun 2011 12:39pm

I recommend that if possible you should try and grow some of your own veges. At present I am not doing this, but have an area set aside for planting very soon. I've done a lot of this in the past, and it's so good. Even if you don't actually have land on which to plant you could maybe try planting in pots. Years ago someone close to me used to have a balcony on which she had a number of pots growing veges. I've always been on the slim side, ever since I was a kid, which was a long time ago. The fact that I'm tremendously active helps a lot. There's one thing I know from experience -- a simple life seems to work better for most people. We never had much money, and had to save like mad to be able to afford to build a house, and as for luxuries I'm not all that interested and neither is my husband. Another tremendously important thing is, I think, to get plenty of sleep.

Grumpy
  • 17th Jun 2011 06:42am

I used to believe there was a relationship between mood and food, but not necessarily a positive one. When I am stressed or upset I would eat junk food (usual suspects, chocolate, crisps).

Nowadays, I thouroughly enjoy eating a meal with my husband and children. I find it relaxing, entertaining and the food tastes better. My relationship with food has changed. Now mood and meal are linked, more so than mood and food.

Bye for now.

PS we only eat free range meat now and are willing to pay more and eat less in order to maintain this belief. We haven't necessarily extended that to eating only organic produce, however all the produce we grow and consume at home is grown according to organic principles.

Grumpy
  • 17th Jun 2011 06:41am

I used to believe there was a relationship between mood and food, but not necessarily a positive one. When I am stressed or upset I would eat junk food (usual suspects, chocolate, crisps).

Nowadays, I thouroughly enjoy eating a meal with my husband and children. I find it relaxing, entertaining and the food tastes better. My relationship with food has changed. Now mood and meal are linked, more so than mood and food.

Bye for now.

PS we only eat free range meat now and are willing to pay more and eat less in order to maintain this belief. We haven't necessarily extended that to eating only organic produce, however all the produce we grow and consume at home is grown according to organic principles.

unibomba17
  • 16th Jun 2011 10:21pm

I do feel better when i eat healthier foods, i like most others however have a very busy lifestyle and it is unfortunatley so much easier to eat unhealthy foods. When buying quick foods or take away, it is cheaper to buy unhealthy foods as a general ruling. Therefore, i undertand how people can easily fall into the trap of this style of eating. I am also susceptible to this style.

jacquiworm
  • 16th Jun 2011 07:49pm

you are what you eat is an old saying but too true, our bodies are like a well nutured garden, without the right nutrients at the right levels plants still survive but dont thrive,they are suseptable to disease and less productive. our bodies are the same, you dont know how good you can feel until you follow a healthy lifestyle

anny1
  • 16th Jun 2011 07:40pm

Hi, I find all of the answers in this discussion line quite interesting. I too have had difficulty in maintaining a steady weight since menopause but do not feel that this is an excuse for me personally. I too am now on a pension and am learning to cope on it. My next effort will be to put in a vege garden as soon as I can because then I will know what i'm eating. My biggest issue prior to retirement was comfort eating due to the stress levels imposed by my work situation. It is actually quite pleasing to note that since the comfort eating has stopped, my weight is quietly reducing. I eat foods that I can afford to buy and sometimes that's not much. However, we need to remember that frozen veges are of similar value to fresh veges and so this becomes an alternative for all of us. Just don't buy the 'junk food'. For me happiness is actually being able to keep myself actively busy and comfortable with myself in my mind as I go on my way through retirement. I am blessed to have a good partner in life and this accounts for a great deal of my happiness. On the other hand, if you are by nature a happy, optomist, that puts you well ahead iun the happiness stakes, doesn't it?

Rose
  • 18th Jun 2011 12:07pm
Hi, I find all of the answers in this discussion line quite interesting. I too have had difficulty in maintaining a steady weight since menopause but do not feel that this is an excuse for me...

Hi anny1,you are quite right in your last sentance. But as kids we were all just like that. The dreaded ageing process interferes with everything.Menopause for all of us,male or female is the root of the problems we have all been discussing as the older generation. For the younger ones it's the food mainly. Food-Happiness god thats stressful in it self. I've never had a weight problem but it's a small battle now that I'm getting to wards the retireing chapter of ones life. My demon is "anxiety" these days which is causing my small weight gain and I dread the thought of it becoming bigger going by what a lot of you have said. I agree with the frozen vege bit as it is still very good for you and I have worked in a frozen vege factory so I know it is fine to eat. I do these days anyway. So how to get that happy medium,well I have no answer for that I'm still looking for it myself. Meds rarely work long term,food well I've never been a big eater,so I guess it's back to the metabolisim and all that goes on in the body that causes happy,unhappy,anger,misseries,the blues,depression. As you all have said a bit of chocolate here and there helps,but only temporatley,so for me dealing with menopause and all that comes with it,I still want the old ways,I mean they had to have dealt with all these things as well.Just didn't have the process stuff or the types of chemicals we have and new allergies.As a permanent nite shift worker for over 20 odd years I've always had to come up with ways to have a nice meal at nite at work,so I kept it simple.The fast chain food outlets I guess don't help a lot of people cos as a lot of you said It was easier to go there than to find the time to cook in todays busy life. I don't really like any of those food shops myself,so I cannot comment on how easy it is to get addicted to them. So all I can say now is good luck to everyone,young,old,the in between all who suffer from this life with food,happy,unhappy stress,anxiety,meds,smoking,alcohol,all of it. GOOD LUCK to everyone. I've done a lot of reading/research as well as the next person and I have no answer,maybe it'll all stop when food no longer is grown but comes from a tablet form and liquids. Cheers

ghost
  • 16th Jun 2011 06:27pm

Hi All, Mood changes are directly associated with food & drink.Some mood changes
cause problems with our metabolism , which makes us hungry or thirsty.

Regards Gary Cooke

sprinkles
  • 16th Jun 2011 05:45pm

Oh, what a nutty world it is now. Good foods are so expensive Hell, have you seen the price of bananas and fish? Then , if you watch TV some" medical expert" will tell you chocolate is good for you, and the next week its posion again.
Then if you get too healthy, all you want is a pizza, which has just arrived at my door...goodnight:)

Anonymous
  • 16th Jun 2011 05:23pm

I agree that food has the capacity to shape your moods. Every food is an ingredient to your wellbeing including happiness. I find the simpler or more natural you eat the better the body and mind function. A bit of chocolate to lift the low spirits and suppress the appetite. Although many foods are available, costs interfere with living a happy life. I think a simple happy life is achievable through a good diet for those who are able to maintain one.

Anonymous
  • 17th Jun 2011 05:43pm
Are you kidding Angella? I used to crave chocolate and buy it in horribly large quantities, and complain about my grocery bill. Seemed at one stage chocolate went up between 25 and 50c a week,...

Hi Clover. Thanks for your reply. I have replied to another question on the first page about poor eating habits. You could read it if you want to see what else I think about good foods and chocolate. I am a self-confessed binge eater and chocolate was an absolute staple for me until it got too expensive. Not that I am competing with you in anyway.

Clover
  • 17th Jun 2011 12:48pm
Are you kidding Angella? I used to crave chocolate and buy it in horribly large quantities, and complain about my grocery bill. Seemed at one stage chocolate went up between 25 and 50c a week,...

Are you kidding Angella? I used to crave chocolate and buy it in horribly large quantities, and complain about my grocery bill. Seemed at one stage chocolate went up between 25 and 50c a week, and I was buying on special. Now that I no longer have any attraction to chocolate, my grocery bill is much lower. The sugar in chocolate is incredibly highly taxed (I won't explain what the other cost increase is, I've already expressed my displeasure to that company).

Liz
  • 16th Jun 2011 03:41pm

To be sure, Food or certain foods have always had a feel good factor to them, and many bring back memories of times when we were younger, and life was less complicated than it seems to be now. However, our fond food memories are a result of our parents food "memories" and we continue this with our own children. Think Rice Pudding - some people would cringe at the thought while others have a warm fuzzy feeling at the mere thought. No matter how healthy or unhealthy our eating habits, they at least are something we have control over, so in a way our personal answer to happiness may well be in the food we eat on a daily basis

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 03:29pm

I heard a comment like this on DVD recently, I half laughed, half smiled ruefully. The comment was, most people would rather buy a fancy car or pay the rent than buy wholesome food. A car is a necessity, and fancy one not so. The rent to me is a necessity, I have no wish to live in my car!
That said, every time I hear about poor school results, crime rates and hospitals, I blame what is laughingly called food in this society. The worst is that organic food is badmouthed and yet bread has to be "supplemented" with iodine to increase intelligence - except I might add, organic bread which is made with proper whole grains and sea salt. I have a book on the use of herbs, and found that friends could replace all their medications with ONE herb, with the additional benefit that they could cure one of their "incurable" conditions as well. However, this would do the drug companies no good, they need people to poison their bodies with their rubbish to support their multiple fancy car and house lifestyles!
I truly believe that crime is largely related to items found in the supermarket. Put a caveman in there, even someone from just 300 years ago, he'd starve! How much would he recognize, and how much have our animal bodies changed in the last 300 years?
It all goes back to Chief Seattle: When the last river is poisoned, the last fish dead, the land sterile, the air polluted, only then will you realise that you can't eat money. How many schoolchildren now know the story of King Midas? Someone is lauded for having the Midas touch, now finish the story and see how it ended!

lisarich
  • 16th Jun 2011 03:27pm

unfortunately in today's society it is easier and cheaper to feed a family junk food - Maccas prime example with the mates meal and family box deals. One might think it easier to pick up a family box on way home from work at $20 than drop into the shops on the way home and for a bit of meat and some vegies you have already spend over $50+.
having said this, maybe these people need to spend a few bucks and grow thier own vegies!
i'm not an advocate for organic over normal produce however i am for natural produce over processed!
the fresher and less processed the food the better i feel for eating it. i stay clear of take away food unless special occasion. i exercise, live and sleep better eating vegies vs take away!

Rose
  • 16th Jun 2011 03:14pm

Hi everyone, I fully agree with Rainbow. We should eat what is grown and our bodies should be fine. Look at the way people were 40,50 60 years or more ago.They had sweets and so forth back then but not like how the food is today.It is way over the top. All these gourmet style foods,too much sauces,etc I think we should all go back to the basics,live life and work to live, why do we all need all these big fancy items available today.When all those years ago it was simple furniture,but nice,simple clothes,but nice,simple delicous food,and the people from back then got thro' life just fine.I for one am not a modern person,I like the old ways,going thru my mothers' albums and things,sometimes makes me wish I was born in the 1920's,30's 40's etc,time goes too fast in todays life. I'll take my grandparents and even great grandparents food life and living life any day.

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 05:08pm
Hi everyone, I fully agree with Rainbow. We should eat what is grown and our bodies should be fine. Look at the way people were 40,50 60 years or more ago.They had sweets and so forth back then but...

Me too Rose. Sweets yes, but not processed to death, more whole sugars. Every time my computer, TV and car play up, I consider Luddite a compliment!

Anonymous
  • 16th Jun 2011 03:02pm

I work in produce an am a firm beiver in orgaic food as I have done horture an will say that most of us just do not under stand what checials that areput in to the ground to help crops grow and keep pests at bay.

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 05:06pm
Hi everyone, I fully agree with Rainbow. We should eat what is grown and our bodies should be fine. Look at the way people were 40,50 60 years or more ago.They had sweets and so forth back then but...

Thing is caro, healthy (properly nutriented) crops don't NEED pesticides - the plants fight off their predators. It is only weak crops that attract infestation. Again, observation, if farmers noticed this and stood up for themselves, we would go back to centuries-old farming methods and all be better off from it.

halidom
  • 16th Jun 2011 02:41pm

I'm an old guy that likes to cook. I don't go for fads or strangely named food. What does organic food mean. They may not use fertilizer but the birds still fly over it. Free range eggs well with the pollution in the air and the birds again are their eggs any healthier? I live in a rural area so I buy locally produced products as much as possible. When my daughters visit they email a list of what they would like me to cook, so I can be prepared. I haven't eaten in a fast food place in more years then I can remember. I like healthy wholesome food like my mother cooked. She taught me to cook at an early age starting over 50 years ago. The people that eat what I cook can tell that I enjoy cooking. Don't need a degree to be a good cook. I get my satisfaction from seeing an empty plate.

halidom
  • 18th Jun 2011 02:48pm
Organic food is grown on land with no pesticide residue, no pesticides (nerve poisons) are put on the plants, and fertilizers have more nutrients than just NPK. It takes 90 nutrients a day to...

I agree caging chickens is not great, but cutting their heads off is not great either. If you eat meat it comes from an animal that was killed is that eating from misery? Do you really believe there is a humane way to kill any animal? As for the food that is organically grown have you read about what is in the air. The plants grow in that air and all those chemicals are absorbed by those plants. Those plants are also watered and it's not easy to find real clean water. Check out Wikipedia on pollution.

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 05:04pm
I'm an old guy that likes to cook. I don't go for fads or strangely named food. What does organic food mean. They may not use fertilizer but the birds still fly over it. Free range eggs well with...

Organic food is grown on land with no pesticide residue, no pesticides (nerve poisons) are put on the plants, and fertilizers have more nutrients than just NPK. It takes 90 nutrients a day to support a human body. NPK, a by product from munitions manufacture, is 3 nutrients - where do you get the other 87??? Fertilizers should be manure and compost, but as you mentioned, manure isn't always top quality either. Biodynamic is the term for only organic manure and compost being used to fertilize organic farms, so it's the best, but the paper trail makes the price prohibitive (but generally tastes SO much better, so long as your tastebuds aren't corrupted.)
Free range eggs are from healthier chooks, because they are happier and act like birds, not like egg-producing robots. If you cook food with love, why would you use ingredients from misery? We have a cage-egg farm nearby, I know someone who got chicks from them - all dead of cancer in 18 mths. She will not buy eggs or chooks from them ever again, all her chooks are over 3 years old now.

wendel
  • 16th Jun 2011 12:59pm

I have seen docos that actually explain why certain foods make you feel good, something to do with the enzymes in the food that create a sense of well being when consumed, like chocolate. It affects the brain and stimulates certain areas that give you a sense of pleasure.

Bryan
  • 16th Jun 2011 12:06pm

My wife took up vegetarian some 20 years ago based on her discomfort with the slaughter of animals. However there was a great side effect in that the Migraine headaches she seemed to suffer on a regular fortnightly basis became infrequent and were of a lesser intensity.

Wellygaz
  • 16th Jun 2011 11:36am

No. Food is fuel. That's the science and that's the way it is. A good meal with fine wine and companny certainy makes for a wonderful experience. But food always has been and always be a source of energy and nutrients for cell building and function.

As for organic.... organic means carbon-based. Life is carbon-based. The theft of the definition is typical of the rubbish that surrounds the whole so-called movement. The only people who benefit from 'organic are those growing and selling it.

Leelita
  • 16th Jun 2011 11:30am

I just don't see why all our fruit and veges arn't grown without pesticides and genetically modified scientific stuff! Whats happened to the farms? And the beautifull Australian soil? I spose i'm in the group that wouldn't even consider getting a loan for any of those things. If i don't have the cash to buy, then i don't buy. I don't buy the organic stuff for the simple reason of its price! And yes, when we eat well we perform better, but that doesn't mean we'll get a pay rise.

Wellygaz
  • 16th Jun 2011 11:29am

No. Food is fuel. That's the science and that's the way it is. A good meal with fine wine and companny certainy makes for a wonderful experience. But food always has been and always be a source of energy and nutrients for cell building and function.

As for organic.... organic means carbon-based. Life is carbon-based. The theft of the definition by the ludditte nutters who

beavis
  • 16th Jun 2011 11:21am

I used to hide behind food and I thought it was my friend and consequently the kilos crept on over the years until I reached a whopping 120 kgs. I then began to realise that food was indeed not my friend (or at least the amount of food I ate) as I had high blood pressure and was pre-diabetic. I talked to my GP and after long and hard deliberations I took the plunge and had gastic banding surgery. A lot of people feel this is an extreme measure but I had tried every diet over the years and was at a stage where something more drastic was needed. I am now 2 and a half years post op, have lost a whopping 57 kgs and I feel fantastic. It is the best thing I could have done for myself, I no longer have high blood pressure and have completely gone off medication and am no longer pre-diabetic. Food is no longer a focus in my life and I eat small amounts of most things but find I crave more healthy foods now and cannot stomach high fat foods anymore.

Tish
  • 16th Jun 2011 11:19am

I agree that we may have it all wrong. Modern living offers just too many choices and we do not always make the correct one to suit our personal needs. This surley also applies to food. Forget the fancy cars, boats etc, withoout good food we die.

Tish
  • 16th Jun 2011 11:17am

I agree that we may have it all wrong. Modern living offers just too many choices and we do not always make the correct one to suit our personal needs. This surley also applies to food. Forget the fancy cars, boats etc, withoout good food we die.

Poppy.
  • 16th Jun 2011 11:13am

It would be really great if we lived in a perfect world. But we as humans tend to not eat properly, many of us eat junk food and too much processed food. We should all try to eat healthy foods etc, but with the use of chemicals being used in the growing of foods we don't have a great deal of choice. Many of us who are on a fixed low income like myself find that eating organic foods is out of our reach with the prices of it. I try not to eat pre-packaged or heavily processed food. I always try to eat fresh foods wherever possible. This works for me as I'm a Diabetic type 2 and I must always consider the foods that I eat.

lilly
  • 16th Jun 2011 10:03am

You are more of a happy person when you eat something from your own vege garden and knowing you are going to be healthy physically and in the pocket.

JohnC
  • 16th Jun 2011 09:35am

I believe that there is more to food than the energy, protein etc which our bodies need. But it is not in all food. It is intangible, and it is a psycholgical or spiritual thing. Mass produced food cannot have it, fast food cannot have it, restaurant meals may or may not have it and home cooked meals may or may not have it. When food is prepared for another out of love or at least respect then it aquires something special. It becomes food for the soul.

For example, after eating a fast food meal the body may be satiated, but the general feeling is just bleh. Because, and I cannot prove this but it has happened too often to be a coincidence, the (mostly) young cooks who work at such places are just there to earn money, there is absolutely no relationship with the diner, the cook prepares the food but puts nothing of themselves into it.

But if the food is prepared at home (or by a chef who cares), then there is an additional psycholgical or spirtual benefit gained from it. Maybe if we reverted to more home cooked meals shared around a dining table then the social mess which we have created may improve. People would become more grounded, more aware of who they are, KNOW that they are loved, and gain some sense of purpose.

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 04:53pm
I believe that there is more to food than the energy, protein etc which our bodies need. But it is not in all food. It is intangible, and it is a psycholgical or spiritual thing. Mass produced food...

So true John! I've been watching a couple of Indian cooking programs - I figure they know what is good, having been cooking that way for 000's of years. One cook said he was told cooking with love was the path to happiness and he still has his roadside stall in his 80's - won't stop cooking with love for others because he believe's he'll die if he does. Another said the recipes in his region end with Serve with love and lots of emotion. Fast food in India can be as healthy as the best restaurant meal here, better maybe if you get it from cooks with this belief. I would just love to try food cooked by these (specific) people!

Anonymous
  • 16th Jun 2011 08:46am

Happiness as a whole may not be found in what we eat, but I', sure it is part of the whole. I like to eat foods I've grown and/or processed myself. It makes me happy being out in the garden, digging the soil, nurturing plants and then eating what my toil has produced. I'm also happy knowing that I'm giving my children (and everyone else who eats my produce!) the good stuff - and that will help their health and happiness too. I consider it a major achievement to create, grow and nurture health. My happiness is directly related to this - not to the latest car, boat etc. We work hard for our money and the rewards should be ours - but I do think that rewards that are social (i.e. happiness, family) need to be prioritised over chattels.

Yankeedoodle
  • 16th Jun 2011 08:44am

Hi Rainbow,

I received an e-mail today from a friend of mine about the benifits of eating fruit but also when to eat it. Never eat fruit after a meal. Always eat fruit on an empty stomach. I wish I knew how to attach it to this as it was written by a doctor and goes into detail of all the benefits of different types of fruits and how it reduces your chances of getting Cancer. Go on a 3 day fruit diet including drinking the juices (fresh not canned) and you will be pleasently surprised as to how you look and feel. Happy eating and have a great day.

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 04:44pm
Hi Rainbow,

I received an e-mail today from a friend of mine about the benifits of eating fruit but also when to eat it. Never eat fruit after a meal. Always eat fruit on an empty...

I got that email, it was fascinating. Made some difference to me, but I didn't lose the weight then. Watch the 3 day fruit cleanse tho, it would put a lot of people into detox stress and then they'd blame the fruit rather than being happy they got rid of all those poisons!
You could probably copy & paste but I'm not sure if there's room here.

billyjd
  • 16th Jun 2011 08:43am

I think a well balanced diet regardless whether it's organic or not is good for us. Eating plenty of vegs and fruit with small servings of any meat fits the bill.

Anonymous
  • 16th Jun 2011 08:12am

I'm not sure if it is a placebo effect or real, but I do feel better when I eat organic and homemade foods.
I also find that organic fruit and vege are often more flavourful. Same with NZ grown vs. Imported.

I do believe that hapiness and food are quite strongly linked.
Eating vegetarian and organic foods make me feel happier and healthier even if nutritionally they are not always. however the same also applies with eating cakes and hot chips, they do make you feel good, satisfied.

Many people will also notice that their appetite increases or decreases in relation to their stress sad/happiness levels. I personally know that I cannot eat when I am sad or stressed. But when I am happy find it easy to consume more than I require. Food is about relationships a lot too, we eat socially quite often, but when alone I know I don't have the interest in cooking a nice meal just for myself.

Happiness can be in the food we choose to eat, better fuel = feeling better, but we can also find happiness in food. Comfort, stress release, companionship when eating with others....

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 04:47pm
Hi Rainbow,

I received an e-mail today from a friend of mine about the benifits of eating fruit but also when to eat it. Never eat fruit after a meal. Always eat fruit on an empty...

I'm assuming you haven't heard of comfort food, or people overeating because they're miserable :)
How disappointing, you said NZ grown foods. I was wondering if you'd like to cook for me, but it's a long way to go just to have a competent cook make you something luscious and healthy.

merlin2
  • 16th Jun 2011 07:55am

For me happiness is not the actual eating so much as the cooking. The consumption is satisfaction. As to lower income people eating fatty, take-aways, the reason is simple - when taking the cost of cooking, etc. take-aways appear the cheaper option.

Gazza
  • 16th Jun 2011 07:37am

Good food doesn't have to be expensive, fresh veg in NZ & Oz is not over the top price wise, lentils, beans and other pulses are a few cents per serve, I find meat in Oz cheaper than NZ. The first thing to do is learn to shop & cook knowing what's available and how much food ingredients cost then you can plan menus and budget.

BaileyBoo
  • 16th Jun 2011 07:04am

Maybe right... for some. But it is not food alone that leads to happiness. The food we eat takes a big role in our mood as it contributes to our energy levels and health. Energy level helps us get into more exercise (which releases those happy endorphins). But while the right food an exercise may be all that is needed for some to get that general happy disposition, there are plenty of people for which food and exercise helps, but it does not end there. For some people a state of happiness is simple to get to, they are born with a chemical make up that gives them a naturally happy disposition. Happiness can be affected by old and recent events.Happiness is complicated.
The foods that are out there now are full of chemicals that have differing affects on different people. Some people will be allergic to some of these chemicals and not even know. Look at gluten allergy or intolerance, finding this sort of thing out can change someones life. Their health improves by eliminating that food type and in turn they become happier. While it may not only be a food intolerance affecting there mood, finding out and eliminating it will certainly improve their life in that area.
Simple techniques like 'living in the present' that the book called 'The Present' teach, can have a huge effect on someone ability to be happy, and this is unrelated to the food we eat. Although happier people may choose to improve their diet as a result.
The topic of happiness is far reaching and, as said, complicated beyond food/diet alone.

Anonymous
  • 16th Jun 2011 05:19am

You are sooooooo right! We consume food to our moods! If I let my mood rule my tummy I'd be as big as an elephant!!!!! No, I get my mind to think " stay healthy & slim!" Less meat, have plenty of greens, ( I [pile my plate with these!) little amounts of root veges (believe me, I love These! BUT) and decide on Fish or Chicken. I have such a plate full Hubby thinks I'll burst!

Frank Yates
  • 15th Jun 2011 11:20pm

Hi guy's, I am 51 years young. My wife & I eat whole simple foods like Butter, Full cream milk, meat with Fat attached, (before cooking) plus, We drink a glass or 2 of red wine a night. I have had 3 day of sickies in the last 25 years. Our Cholesterol is spot on. Sure we weigh a bit more than we should by a couple of Kilos, But Good food with plenty of Vegies and fresh fruit and clean water (not bottled stuff) equal a healthy body and mind. Coupled with a busy work and social life schedule works for us. Stay away from fast foods & processed muck & you cannot go far wrong. As for this Organic crap, fresh is often the best, where ever it comes from. If you want to pay a heavier price for an organic label...Your choice. As long as it passes the Australian testing, some imports do not.

Frank Yates
  • 17th Jun 2011 11:06am
Good theory frank, I would have agreed with you once, until I found out what was in the "good food" that comes from our depleted soils. Organic food is a necessity to get what you once did...

Just a quick reply Clover, Yes the paperwork will cost some time & Money but not that much I mean $4.00 extra a kilo for beans, $2.00 extra for apples, come on that is just a rip off. Once you are accredited it is simple audit now & then.
As for depleted soil, Australia generally has very poor soil for agriculture that is missing many vital trace elements that have to be added other wise food does not grow properly and will contain no essential nutrients. So you get a choice add chemicals via fertilizer either organic or mas produced but the trace elements still have to be put in or you will get nothing out.
We grow a fair bit of our own fruit so I do not like putting on pesticides but prefer to use natural forms of controls for bugs like fruit fly traps & herbal sprays. Happiness is a state of mind as you only get out of life what you put in.
Yes I am a glass half full guy The oter half is waiting to be drained for the next refill. Cheers

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 04:37pm
Hi guy's, I am 51 years young. My wife & I eat whole simple foods like Butter, Full cream milk, meat with Fat attached, (before cooking) plus, We drink a glass or 2 of red wine a night. I have...

Good theory frank, I would have agreed with you once, until I found out what was in the "good food" that comes from our depleted soils. Organic food is a necessity to get what you once did automatically. The extra price comes from paperwork to verify all crap you DIDN'T put in, it should be cheaper because it doesn't have high priced low quality fertilizers & pesticides, but it's the typical story of making it more expensive to do the right thing.
Don't worry about your weight, the BMI is another thing that's been given out as gospel and is flawed. The healthiest people - like you with 3 sick days in 25 years - were in the moderately obese category, NOT the "correct weight" one!

Anonymous
  • 16th Jun 2011 08:15am
Hi guy's, I am 51 years young. My wife & I eat whole simple foods like Butter, Full cream milk, meat with Fat attached, (before cooking) plus, We drink a glass or 2 of red wine a night. I have...

I like what you say about 'whole simple foods' there is a lot to be rediscovered in that

Gerry1945
  • 15th Jun 2011 11:01pm

Unfortunately if we eat healthy food groups we are also consuming heaps of pesticides so unles we grow our own food then we have to suffer the long term consequences.

michb
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:39pm

I personally have never seen any benefits from organic versus non organic foods, except for the benefits for the growers/retailers. Go back to eating from the 5 basic food groups,less processing and you will be healthier

jock
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:11pm

eat senisably , exercise and help your fellow human being

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 04:30pm
Hi guy's, I am 51 years young. My wife & I eat whole simple foods like Butter, Full cream milk, meat with Fat attached, (before cooking) plus, We drink a glass or 2 of red wine a night. I have...

The 2 skinniest people I've ever known were alcoholics who drank beer by the bucketload. Keep going far enough with the beer and you won't be able to take up anything from all the food you eat.

Anonymous
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:29pm
eat senisably , exercise and help your fellow human being

SHEPPY says: one thing I would like to ask though when your watchin the footy on tv what better is it to sink your teeth into a lovely meat pie and thats a happy time

Anonymous
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:28pm
eat senisably , exercise and help your fellow human being

one thing I would like to ask though when your watchin the footy on tv what better is it to sink your teeth into a lovely meat pie and thats a happy time

Anonymous
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:25pm
eat senisably , exercise and help your fellow human being

thats right I agree jock just swap the always for sometimes and balance it out food is good all food but in moderation and drink less also as all the weight gain for men is usually form alot of beer

jock
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:05pm

sensible eating habits with natural foods and exercise is the answer we don not need fancy growen foods. additionally, who needs fancy material things. This is one of the major factors that wrecks the human race - greed, both in food intake
and materila things

Roz
  • 15th Jun 2011 09:57pm

Eating the right food, a well balanced diet is essential if we expect to get the best from our bods. At the same time reduce the stress, this will help. Along with wanting everything material avaliable on the market. It must be expensive or it doesn't count!!
So now we have a less stressed person who lives in an ordinary home, who eats well and enjoys life. OMG did we just go back 40 years.
Nothing wrong with an ordinary life , everything we do and have does not have to be exceptional, this will not make us happy.
Actually having the time to to think and watch the grass grow and enjoy what we actually have, along with eating well has to go a long way toward inner peace and happiness, I think.

Lockhart
  • 15th Jun 2011 09:33pm

As an 80 year old pensioner with Type 2 Diabetes I eat what the family eats asm y wife and I live with our eldest daqughter and husband and she is "pre-diabetic" so she produces healthy meals which either she or I prepare. Neither of us can be bothered with organic food as opposed to ordinary common or garden fresh food, so most of the blather about what is good or bad or even junk passes us by. Nothing much wrong with sensible meat and fish eating programmes accompanied by as much vegetables as we want and fruit.
Otherwise I wouldn't have lived so long!

Lockhart
  • 17th Jun 2011 05:00pm
Define "normal" diet Lockhart. To many modern teenagers, maccas is normal and vegemite sandwiches are not :) We have organic, "healthy" chocolate here, and it is definitely not to my taste. If...

There was a time when I worried about diabetes and was very careful but, since I reacted to medication with a hypo, I was put on diet only which served me well for the past 14 years. Recently I have added Diabex XR to my diet and we just keep going. By the way, organic food wasn't invented when I was young, it was called wartime rationing. Maccas and the other fast-food outlets have never appealed to me and the young need to be educated as to what problems they are going to have if they continue to eat there.
I really think I have said enough on this subject and frankly should never have made an observation if I am going to have to answer trivia on a daily basis.

Clover
  • 17th Jun 2011 12:41pm
Hi Clover,
Not quite true, I lived in Africa for 45 years when most of our vegetables were home grown. I used pesticides to kill the bugs so I doubt if I have ever eaten organic food though I...

Define "normal" diet Lockhart. To many modern teenagers, maccas is normal and vegemite sandwiches are not :) We have organic, "healthy" chocolate here, and it is definitely not to my taste. If you like really dark bitter chocolate it may be to yours. However, I did a no sugar, no yeast diet last year together with a practitioner-only purgative and suddenly, I no longer wanted chocolate. Tried a mineral supplement this year (liquid), suddenly I no longer want sugar! If I stop the minerals, I can start wanting some sugar again, but now I know I can treat it.
That said, my ex was diagnosed with type II diabetes, so I did some online research. If you wish to supplement, you can eat what you want and still not worry about blood sugar. He doesn't any more, eats anything, but makes sure he includes certain veggies (and buckets of chocolate). That may not be normal to you, but you can choose what you want to be a slave to - old-fashioned remedies like brewers yeast (if you're not allergic) or drugs and dangerous sugar-replacements if you prefer those.

Lockhart
  • 16th Jun 2011 05:34pm
Lockhart, you have an advantage over us young un's, you grew up in a time when "common or garden fresh foods" were organic, and that basis has served you well. Take some time to look at the food...

Hi Clover,
Not quite true, I lived in Africa for 45 years when most of our vegetables were home grown. I used pesticides to kill the bugs so I doubt if I have ever eaten organic food though I take your point that the elements you are talking about may be missing today.
However your figures are accurate and like it or not my diabetes persists after 15 years brought about by excess sugary drinks. I have a sweet tooth and if you can come up with some organic chocolate I might try it! Obesity is not about the difference between organic and normal production so I don't believe that persons should change from a normal diet, rather correct the poor menus!

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 04:23pm
As an 80 year old pensioner with Type 2 Diabetes I eat what the family eats asm y wife and I live with our eldest daqughter and husband and she is "pre-diabetic" so she produces healthy meals which...

Lockhart, you have an advantage over us young un's, you grew up in a time when "common or garden fresh foods" were organic, and that basis has served you well. Take some time to look at the food tables and see how many fewer vitamins and minerals are in mass-produced, NPK fertilized and pesticided foods, they aren't as good as they used to be on the 1935 and 1970 tables. Then take a decent organic product that might not look as good, but tastes SO much better. You might even find you can cure your diabetes, I know, it's been done.

Rachel
  • 15th Jun 2011 09:31pm

Well I'm Australian born but of English and Irish parents who brought me up in a way that ensured you ate to live. Meaning not over indulging, have the five food groups, not to many sweets etc. Then I married a greek and learnt that they LIVE TO EAT, not eat to live.
I have to say the greek way is much more fun and does bring happiness, I love food now and I'm even a very keen cook much to my mother's horror as I no longer have the size 8 -10 body I once had while living with her!!!

victory
  • 15th Jun 2011 09:27pm

Yes rainbow,
I believe what we eat is what we are! look like, feel healthy, act so yes if you eat healthy and small amounts during the day surely there is something in it. So why don't the food authorities teach and get it right? Yes Rainbow, and then when everything is working properly the body, brain and moods, then a positive outlook, to be able to work efficiently and productively, to earn more money to allow the luxuries of today. Must be happy in oneself 1st then life go right.

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 04:18pm
Yes rainbow,
I believe what we eat is what we are! look like, feel healthy, act so yes if you eat healthy and small amounts during the day surely there is something in it. So why don't the...

You won't like the answer victory but the reason food authorities get things so wrong is because they learned their bad information like parrots and don't have any observation skills. Haven't you noticed it's a pill-based society? Tell parents to give baby Panadol or Nurofen, then tell kids not to take drugs! How is a child to know the difference? Don't take time off work to catch up on sleep to deal with a cold, "soldier on". Don't eat properly or take up a sport to deal with depression, take a pill! Don't tell anyone you felt better after eating organic food, they'll tell you you're crazy, or stupid, not commend you for taking notice of your own body.

bexbex
  • 15th Jun 2011 09:19pm

I'd say there is a lot of happiness in food. I lived in England for 30 years, and have been in Australia for the past 15 months. Because food labelling is much poorer here, and I'm vegetarian, my options have dropped dramatically. It's depressing almost, it's not prison-camp food but the variety has gone and so has my gourmet joy!

meggs
  • 15th Jun 2011 09:06pm

I do believe in the old saying you are what you eat variety is the spice of life and ever thing in moderation.
If for example I have a fast food day from being out and about. I'll end up with a mega headache, but if I incorp say a wholesome counter meal instead of maccas, then I end my day feeling great. And price wise it is probably much of a muchness and the kids are even noticably better and less likely to be wanting to constantly snack, so we all end up a happier little family.

Anonymous
  • 15th Jun 2011 08:55pm

Because of our daughters behavioural issues, we as a family went on a 'Failsafe' diet and eliminated all additives (artificial colours, flavours, preservatives, MSG, etc) out of our diet. After 4 days of 'detox' and feeling shocking, we found ourselves enjoying simple foods. Feeling great, sleeping well and so much happier. Over the last few decades so many chemicals have been added to foods to improve look, enhance flavour, prolong shelf life what sort of chemical cocktail are most people consuming each day?
By the way, we lost weight, saved money on the grocery bill and had a child who was an absolute pleasure to be around again!!

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 04:25pm
Yes rainbow,
I believe what we eat is what we are! look like, feel healthy, act so yes if you eat healthy and small amounts during the day surely there is something in it. So why don't the...

Absolutely kayjay, FSANZ and the TGA - remember Vioxx? When are these people going to be done for false advertising??? Not to mention menaces to the public health.

Anonymous
  • 16th Jun 2011 04:18pm
I find reading thru these that so many people advocate a "healthy" diet, but I wonder what that really is. Behavioural problems are so often related to health/food, but usually little is done...

You are right Clover, sugar, salt and other 'essential' natural substances are portrayed as the bad guys, when it is in fact all the other chemicals such as colours, preservatives etc that really cause the problems. Our grandparents and parents never had these issues and in those days there was no ADHD!! FSANZ has a lot to answer for with what chemicals are allowed into everyday foods that have been banned in Europe and other countries as dangerous.

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 04:08pm
I find reading thru these that so many people advocate a "healthy" diet, but I wonder what that really is. Behavioural problems are so often related to health/food, but usually little is done...

I find reading thru these that so many people advocate a "healthy" diet, but I wonder what that really is. Behavioural problems are so often related to health/food, but usually little is done about it (Congratulations kayjay!) What most people consider healthy I would have fits about after all my reading. I believe in good fats, good sugars (xylitol is a natural sugar that prevents cavities, but they still use dangerous aspartame instead) and complete salts - the base of the word salary is salt, you were paid a ration a day to keep healthy, now suddenly it's dangerous! I recently read a book that's older than I am, and I am trying to put it into practice, but not finding it easy from my conditioned tastes. Why do I prefer instant coffee to a proper espresso? (Won't matter now, on the new diet I won't be having coffee at all.) Why did I like that strawberry doughnut on the invitation to this chat as much as the strawberry next to it? Probably because it wasn't an organic strawberry and therefore flavourless, unlike highly enhanced, sugary icing. But I've just lost 5kg for the first time in 15 years, all from eating less meat, more organic grains, no dairy (calcium is found in sesame seeds which I love) and chewing a lot more than I'm used to. Chewing is excellent exercise and starts the digestion process - it's not just what you eat, it's how you eat it! Lunch breaks are also shorter than they used to be (who gets a lunch hour now? And it used to be paid!) Sounds crazy, but I LOVE seeing the scales say I'm lighter every day rather than heavier.

Anonymous
  • 16th Jun 2011 07:52am
I find reading thru these that so many people advocate a "healthy" diet, but I wonder what that really is. Behavioural problems are so often related to health/food, but usually little is done...

Kayjay - that is fantastic and stories like yours need to be more publicised. A lot of the additives in processed foods are potentially harmful substances. Many of which have been banned from use in other countries but added to our foods as 'safe' quite frightening.
I personally try to avoid processed foods, but find the convenience of muesli bars etc. useful in a busy schedule.
I have got a book called 'The Chemical Maze: Bookshelf Companion' which lists all food and cosmetic additives explains what it is likely to be in and whether or not it is 'safe' to use. Really simply and easy to use guide.
It's about $20 I think available from most good bookstores or online:

http://www.timeout.co.nz/books/The_Chemical_Maze_Bookshelf_Companion_Your_guide_to_food_additives_and_cosmetic_ingredients/0957853548.html?option=results&search_by=isbn&search_text=0957853548&Fnew_search=1&pagestyle=single&nsBookshop_Session=19c24e51054df86dbcb2f89fd9f28723

Anonymous
  • 15th Jun 2011 09:19pm
Kayjay,
Pleased to hear about your success. One of the parts of my work involved children who have behavioural issues and the removal of artificial colours and flavours has a remarkably...

Yes, we can't believe the effect it had on our child. We went from night terrors, tantrums that lasted up to 2 hours or more and such an angry little person. To a child who is now doing well at school, ballet and swimming. She even got an award at school for impeccable manners.

Parsimony
  • 15th Jun 2011 09:11pm
Kayjay,
Pleased to hear about your success. One of the parts of my work involved children who have behavioural issues and the removal of artificial colours and flavours has a remarkably...

Kayjay,
Pleased to hear about your success. One of the parts of my work involved children who have behavioural issues and the removal of artificial colours and flavours has a remarkably positive impact. While often difficult to begin with, the return on that initial investment is great.

hoppy55555
  • 15th Jun 2011 08:52pm

I would like to reply that it is great to see,other people can not understand or exsplain.How can people waste.Maybe it is nice to have.That new car or new TV.Would it look and perform better if you felt better.I am now 48y/o and gave up smoking{after 33 years at 20 to 30 a day)Food is a treasure that is not wasted as junk food.We do not always have time or the knowledge to prepare.Why can we not help people.Once you start to eat better food,the results are unbeleivable.To feel better most of the time,to breath,walk,live.If people just try .

jock
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:10pm
I would like to reply that it is great to see,other people can not understand or exsplain.How can people waste.Maybe it is nice to have.That new car or new TV.Would it look and perform better if...

again, you seem to be on the right tract. However, occassionally junk food is alright

shorty
  • 15th Jun 2011 08:27pm

who wants bigger cars and boats, all I want is a cauliflowerand vegs......,,.

Clover
  • 16th Jun 2011 04:11pm
True but with a bit of effort you can grow your own

Alright for you, you probably could. It's different on a disability pension, contrary to popular opinion they don't give it for having a great smile, you can't always look after things as you'd like. As for living in a flat, I don't know what the animals around here would do to a veggie garden!

Chicken
  • 16th Jun 2011 08:01am
again you are on the money

I think you are pretty much right, especially when it comes to adults. They as a rule, I did say as a rule because as a couple of you said, some people do genuinely have cravings, most are just too lazy. About the only time we buy fast food is when we are short for time, between 2 events etc.
No I have to say that looking at society overall, it is the people who can least afford it that do eat this type of food, the same as alcohol, smoking etc.
To be fair on them though I have to say, they are usually purchasing one or two meals at a time and dont notice the cost, whereas they go to the supermarket and see a cabbage costs $3, then the potatoes, meat, and other veges, it is a big layout at one time

temsmum
  • 16th Jun 2011 05:28am
again you are on the money

True but with a bit of effort you can grow your own

Jezemeg8
  • 15th Jun 2011 11:49pm
Yes the cost is hard to understand..When you consider that next to nothing goes to the people whom slave all day,to provide.Every body needs there part.The farmer,who is puttihg all the...

I too am on a disabled pension and I too have to watch my pennies. Grow my own veges? Well I used to but the task of caring for them became too great for me, and its a waste to see the crop failing because I'm unable to care properly for it.
As to poor people eating junk food, well, I used to think the same way as others here, that is until I started ministering to the street folk and the homeless and realised that many don't have cooking facilities, one can no longer light a fire outside, (EPA restrictions), Council supplied BBQ's and takeaway (or more often dumpsters) are the source of cooking and food for those who can't afford to shop. I know myself, many times I've been reliant on the food that the street folk dumpster dive for and then share with me.
Also there is the very real lack of cooking knowledge amongst the poor. Cooking is no longer taught routinely at schools, and nutrition is only just now being taught. Parents do their best, they'd love to increase their skils, and eagerly attend classes that I offer, but the demands are greater than what I as one person can provide. Other cooking classes are too expensive for many, when its a matter of choosing whether one will heat the home, or cook, paying for classes to learn cooking skills is out of the question.
There are many factors to those who are poor, maybe overweight, etc eating junk food, It can't be attributed to laziness alone. God bless.

hoppy55555
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:39pm
Yes the cost is hard to understand..When you consider that next to nothing goes to the people whom slave all day,to provide.Every body needs there part.The farmer,who is puttihg all the...

Yes the cost is hard to understand..When you consider that next to nothing goes to the people whom slave all day,to provide.Every body needs there part.The farmer,who is puttihg all the chemicals.The staff who collect and pick it.The drivers who need to be paid to transport,the inspectors whom make sure it is safe to eat.The shops that sell the items.One of the most exspensive is the goverment,who tax the growers,the drivers,the shops who sell and us,people who need to eat.I have been on the disabled pension.For over 20 years,because of being run over at work.How we survive?We do.We just need hope and food does help.

Anonymous
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:22pm
who wants bigger cars and boats, all I want is a cauliflowerand vegs......,,.

hey but the price of vegies is nearly the cost of a new car or boat

jock
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:08pm
who wants bigger cars and boats, all I want is a cauliflowerand vegs......,,.

again you are on the money

shorty
  • 15th Jun 2011 08:24pm

people who eat junk foods are to idle to cook their own meals...

Anonymous
  • 16th Jun 2011 07:40am
people who eat junk foods are to idle to cook their own meals...

I'm an avid cook, absolutely love it, it's cheap, healthy and delicious. But still like to take a night off maybe once a week and indulge in some takeaways, There is something (possibly sentimental from my Sunday nights as a child) about eating fish n chips straight from the paper sitting crossed legged on the floor.

jock
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:07pm
people who eat junk foods are to idle to cook their own meals...

precisely

DEBOCO
  • 15th Jun 2011 08:12pm

It always amazes me that many people, particularly those who are overweight and have a lower economic situation, seem to spend more money on junk food and highly processed foods, rather than eating the basic food groups and cooking and preparing food themselves. How can you possibly feel good when you're eating bucket loads of salt, fat and sugar? You don't need to spend more to eat better, you just need to eat natural foods and then add your own flavours to them. Natural foods fill you up faster and longer, so ultimately you eat less and save more money.

elljay
  • 31st Mar 2016 05:32pm
people who eat junk foods are to idle to cook their own meals...

If its not overeating its overworking or overcompensating or overspending no matter what it is we are ALL over something.

sketches
  • 12th Aug 2011 12:33pm
It always amazes me that many people, particularly those who are overweight and have a lower economic situation, seem to spend more money on junk food and highly processed foods, rather than eating...

You DO need to spend more to eat better. Take your average veg at a supermarket, at the moment capsicums are $2 each, tomatoes are $6 a kilo, you can't even buy bananas for how expensive they are. I'm a student who doesn't earn much, and when I go grocery shopping I'm lucky if my weekly shop is under $80. And that's just fresh fruits and vegetables.

The difference here is that I'm doing a weekly shop for just me, not for an entire family I have to support. These people buying cheaper, sugar filled foods aren't doing it because they have no idea about sugar and fats, it's because the supermarkets have decided to pay farmers a minimal amount for their produce, and then mark it up by 400%, making it impossible for a working family to be able to buy all fresh food all the time.

Go travel to outer city suburbs, where the prices for fresh fruit and veg are even higher than in the cities, and funnily enough, you'll find even more overweight families.

SereneBee
  • 30th Jul 2011 08:00pm
No fun when the weight won't go. Try making health your goal...eat as much raw food as possible, avoid as much packaged and prepared food as you can, give up any and all soft drinks, go for a walk...

And if you have a handful of unsalted, roasted nuts with any luck you'll be like me and find the weight just dropping off. Plus I eat butter but I prefer skim milk for taste - I dislike cream with an intensity that my Mother could never understand. If you're interested there's a great book to borrow from your Library -- it's "The Chocolate Diet" by John Ashton.

SereneBee
  • 30th Jul 2011 07:56pm
Hi Nelly2 - maybe you need to get some new recipes or alternatively get into a cooking group. I know it is difficult to cook a good recipe for just one person. but if a group of you got together...

And if you can't get to the cooking group you can cook a meal for four and freeze a couple of portions for when you don't feel like cooking. So long as you're organized to take it out of the freezer the night before to thaw in the 'fridge!

gnasher
  • 20th Jun 2011 04:12pm
Hi Deboco, I 100% agree with you there, but you have to look into why a person is overweight. I uses to be slim but I'm going through menopause and have put on a lot of kilos. I still eat the same,...

I have found that low fat foods are no good for me - too much sugar in them and they elevate my blood glucose levels. Things like zero sugar drinks also raise your BSL, sometimes higher than a normal drink would. Moderation in everything, including the occasional take-away.

Bellxchat
  • 19th Jun 2011 07:46pm
Im gonna try the lean cusines. im going on a cruise in August and really want to lose at least 5 kilos, that would make me feel so much better and my cloths more comfy. Also ive been letting my son...

Leelita, you're right to have given away the gym. Walking's a great exercise, we all know how to do it, and it's free! Once you get into the habit of walking instead of taking the car (or the stairs instead of the lift, etc)you won't know yourself. Good on you.

Leelita
  • 19th Jun 2011 06:12pm
No fun when the weight won't go. Try making health your goal...eat as much raw food as possible, avoid as much packaged and prepared food as you can, give up any and all soft drinks, go for a walk...

Im gonna try the lean cusines. im going on a cruise in August and really want to lose at least 5 kilos, that would make me feel so much better and my cloths more comfy. Also ive been letting my son take the car for his tafe course 3 days a week, so have to walk. im bad, if the cars there i just dont do it. i use to be a gym junkie, id be waiting at the door for them to open, now i couldnt think of anything worse then excercising' blaaaaa

Bellxchat
  • 19th Jun 2011 11:43am
oooo me to. its horrible isnt it. no matter what i do the weight just wont go down. So uncomfortable.

No fun when the weight won't go. Try making health your goal...eat as much raw food as possible, avoid as much packaged and prepared food as you can, give up any and all soft drinks, go for a walk every day, cut down (or out) alcohol & coffee...and take the pressure off a weight-goal.

susie
  • 17th Jun 2011 06:43am
It always amazes me that many people, particularly those who are overweight and have a lower economic situation, seem to spend more money on junk food and highly processed foods, rather than eating...

I am an over weight person because of health issues and I don't eat a lot of junk food I hate this stereotype we have been put in, if you have never had a serious weight problem you have no idea how hard it is. I eat healthy food but it is also expensive and I have noticed it IS CHEAPER to buy as you put it JUNK FOOD so maybe that is the reason some people buy this type of food. I have discussed this with quite a few people and they agree to eat healthy on a low budget is hard. I believe the eating of junk food is contributed a lot to our time poor community. Work, family commitments etc sometimes just don't make it possible to cook a meal from scratch every day.

Anonymous
  • 16th Jun 2011 05:54pm
It always amazes me that many people, particularly those who are overweight and have a lower economic situation, seem to spend more money on junk food and highly processed foods, rather than eating...

I am that person. Overweight on a low income and depressed enough to binge eat without caring for the consequences. I do try to mask my emotions by using a carelessly set diet. Seems that I sway from good foods to anything&everything as the moods of the day change. I have a few friends with the same problem of comfort eating quite recklessly. We tried a weekly group once and so sadly turned itself into a binge session for all of us. The final straw was when I was left with a table full of bad foods and although I asked the others not to leave them at my house, strangely they did not respond. Now I think back it started with one woman who disrepected the rules and that disrespect affected all of us. I ended up binging on that food after they left.
I conclude that respect of each other and our personal emotions governed how and what we ate. Junk food is a quick fix and cheaper than good food.

daisy
  • 16th Jun 2011 04:16pm
Hi Deboco, I 100% agree with you there, but you have to look into why a person is overweight. I uses to be slim but I'm going through menopause and have put on a lot of kilos. I still eat the same,...

I agree with that as well. Some people put on weight because of health issues but there are some that just can't stop eating, it is like an addiction . Some are so unhappy with life that food is like a comfort thing. It is cheaper to eat health with fresh vegies and salad rather than take a way food.

daisy
  • 16th Jun 2011 04:16pm
Hi Deboco, I 100% agree with you there, but you have to look into why a person is overweight. I uses to be slim but I'm going through menopause and have put on a lot of kilos. I still eat the same,...

I agree with that as well. Some people put on weight because of health issues but there are some that just can't stop eating, it is like an addiction . Some are so unhappy with life that food is like a comfort thing. It is cheaper to eat health with fresh vegies and salad rather than take a way food.

Leelita
  • 16th Jun 2011 11:32am
Hi Deboco, I 100% agree with you there, but you have to look into why a person is overweight. I uses to be slim but I'm going through menopause and have put on a lot of kilos. I still eat the same,...

oooo me to. its horrible isnt it. no matter what i do the weight just wont go down. So uncomfortable.

peterv
  • 16th Jun 2011 11:13am
It always amazes me that many people, particularly those who are overweight and have a lower economic situation, seem to spend more money on junk food and highly processed foods, rather than eating...

You are absolutely right.It's not hard or expensive to prepare healthy tasty food.Maybe some of the people you talk about should watch Jamie olivers food revolution programme!

owl-hollow
  • 16th Jun 2011 11:02am
i agree with you mary ,as ive been going through menopause now since i was 49,am now 63,i have to take medication for it ,as im one of the unlucky ones that have to take it for the rest of my life...

I have been going through menopause myself since I was about 40 I am now 49. And due to having had breast cancer at 35, I cannot take any hormone replacement therapy but neither would I want to.

Nelly you are not one of the unlucky ones that will have to take hormones for the rest of your life - That is TRUE for everyone who takes them, as the minute you stop, your body goes back into its natural menopause. So you are better off going through it and getting it over and done with. Although I must admit - after nearly 10 years I am sick to death of the symptoms - I hate hot flushes. It is supposed to be over with in under 5 years.
I agree with you that menopause makes it hard to loose weight and easy to put weight on. I do not eat junk food or takeaways and eat a healthy diet.

Shezak
  • 16th Jun 2011 09:28am
i agree with you mary ,as ive been going through menopause now since i was 49,am now 63,i have to take medication for it ,as im one of the unlucky ones that have to take it for the rest of my life...

Hi Nelly2 - maybe you need to get some new recipes or alternatively get into a cooking group. I know it is difficult to cook a good recipe for just one person. but if a group of you got together and decided to cook one decent meal per week each and then divided the meal between all you could get a great variation learn to enjoy the process of cooking and maybe rejig your metabolism...... its just a thought.

glendaj
  • 16th Jun 2011 09:11am
It always amazes me that many people, particularly those who are overweight and have a lower economic situation, seem to spend more money on junk food and highly processed foods, rather than eating...

I totally agree with you. I'm sure that if they weighed up the price difference between a home cooked meal and takeaway they would be surprised and it doesn't take forever to prepare meal at home. Takeaway should be used as a treat and not a regular thing.

nelly2
  • 16th Jun 2011 06:30am
Hi Deboco, I 100% agree with you there, but you have to look into why a person is overweight. I uses to be slim but I'm going through menopause and have put on a lot of kilos. I still eat the same,...

i agree with you mary ,as ive been going through menopause now since i was 49,am now 63,i have to take medication for it ,as im one of the unlucky ones that have to take it for the rest of my life ,as soon as i try to go off it i get my symptons back again ,what my point is that i dont eat a lot ,as im on a pension ,so a lot of foods are unatainable for me ,and because im on this medication its very hard for me to lose weight ,no matter what i do so sometimes people cant lose weight because of this,i dont use this as an excuse its hard to lose any ,i dont eat takeaway foods as i find it to exspensive. ,.

Lyn
  • 16th Jun 2011 06:07am
It always amazes me that many people, particularly those who are overweight and have a lower economic situation, seem to spend more money on junk food and highly processed foods, rather than eating...

I think it is very unfair to make sweeping statements about other people. Its very easy to say the overweight, low income people are bad eaters. Does it make you feel better about yourself? There are overweight, wealthy people who eat badly and many slim, good eaters amongst the lower income groups. Shame on you!

Anonymous
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:21pm
It always amazes me that many people, particularly those who are overweight and have a lower economic situation, seem to spend more money on junk food and highly processed foods, rather than eating...

hi yes I do agree with you to some extent and there is nothing better then making even your own pizza at home if you want to spoil yoursel just dont add all the junk that is on pizzas you buy
You can put healthy vegies on a pizza and it will probably taste better too

Mary____
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:15pm
It always amazes me that many people, particularly those who are overweight and have a lower economic situation, seem to spend more money on junk food and highly processed foods, rather than eating...

Hi Deboco, I 100% agree with you there, but you have to look into why a person is overweight. I uses to be slim but I'm going through menopause and have put on a lot of kilos. I still eat the same, I still exercise and I do lot of ruunning around now as I look after my niece. The only thing that has changed in my life is less stress.

jock
  • 15th Jun 2011 10:06pm
It always amazes me that many people, particularly those who are overweight and have a lower economic situation, seem to spend more money on junk food and highly processed foods, rather than eating...

well said Dewboco

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