Paula Deen Whatever You Do; Do NOT Listen To Dr. Melina Jampolis

With all the news and publicity surrounding the Paula Deen Diabetes revelation, I thought I would post once again, my response to media medical “expert,” Melina Jampolis concerning the paleolithic eating lifestyle. For those who have asked me, I have reached out to discuss my differences with Dr. Melina to both her and other media outlets that rely on her “expertise.”  To date, I have received no reply, but I’m sure I will.

I would like to begin with the disclaimer that I am NOT an expert on Paleolithic eating. However, I am an expert on how the human body functions and maintaining the world’s most complex machine.  Additionally, I wrote the very well received book: Fat Then Fit Now; A Life Beyond Weight Loss.

I am a low carbohydrate proponent and follower — lately I have drifted to more of a Paleo/Primal model of eating.  My personal definition is that I consume very little, if any processed, prepackaged foods, very little starchy carbohydrates and simple sugars and no high fructose corn syrup.  I stick to the notion that if it can be found in nature, without (or else as little as possible) human intervention, I eat it.

I deviate from what I understand the Paleo plan to be in the fact that I eat some cheese and I have one, very basic protein shake a day.  Since I eat out quite frequently, grass fed beef, wild caught seafood and free range poultry aren’t always an option.  When I have the freedom to prepare, I prepare the previous, but again, with my schedule: which begins by leaving the house at 4:30am and not arriving home until, at the earliest, 7pm — I follow the spirit, if not the letter of the law, of what I understand paleo eating to be.

On my Facebook profile, my buddy Big Tim, posted a link to a Q and A on CNN’s health page where a reader, Courtney L., had asked a question about the Paleo diet.  The reader’s question was answered by their “expert,” Dr. Melina Jampolis.  I have never heard of Dr. Melina before, so I did some, admittedly very brief, research on her before writing this post.

Image by David Berkowitz via Flickr

I discovered among other facts that she is a lackey, I mean contributor, of none other than the other doctor who spouts just as much diet misinformation; Dr. Mehmet Oz.  What’s the old expression?  Birds of a feather?

Let’s take her response to fellow Pennsylvanian Courtney L. from Pittsburgh.  Dr. Melina starts with a false premise; the premise being that Paleo eating is a fad diet.  I agree that fad diets, or any diet which simply has the goal of weight loss is not the way to go.  However, if Dr. Melina actually had any intellectual curiosity, she would discover that those who follow solid, natural eating plans are not fad dieters.  No, we are just the opposite; we have made a commitment to changing our lifestyles. We eat a healthier way not simply to lose weight, but to live a better quality of life.

Dr. Melina includes in her answer many of the positive aspects of the Paleo eating style, which I don’t have much of a problem with; again, I am not a strict follower of the Paleo methodology, so I will defer to experts how accurate her conclusions and information are.

As a low carbohydrate, unprocessed, natural food follower, I have issues with her cons of Paleo and in relation low carb eating.  Her responses are numbered and italicized, my responses are in bold font:

“1. The diet eliminates dairy, an affordable and widely available source of bone-building calcium (and vitamin D when dairy foods are fortified) and protein (yes, calcium can be obtained from greens and other foods, but it is more challenging to consume adequate amounts.)“

Dairy is not essential to get calcium.   It is only affordable because the government keeps the prices artificially suppressed.  The fact is that the pasteurization process destroys much of the healthful ingredients that raw dairy possesses.  The word fortified, much like enriched, is code in the food industry for we put back in some, not all,  of the good stuff we destroyed in the processing of the product.  Since milk is relatively cheap, how high quality do you think the vitamin D that is used to fortify it is? Her “reason” that it is challenging to consume adequate amounts of greens and other foods are nothing more than an excuse.  Additionally, dairy isn’t even essential in the human diet. I challenge you to name another animal that consumes milk after infancy; while you’re at it, name one that drinks another animal’s milk.

“2. The diet eliminates all grains, including whole grains, which are a good source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and heart healthy fiber, and foods such as beans, peanuts and sweet potatoes, all of which have numerous health-promoting qualities.”

Whole grains ARE processed foods. I have never seen a bread bush, a pasta plant or an oatmeal tree. Hell, even corn has been so genetically modified, it is almost pure starch. It takes a lot of effort to get these foods from field to plate. Every day there is more and more research being published that disputes the fact that whole grains are healthy.  I really wish we could get over this “whole” grain kick.  It is the deep pockets and lobbying efforts of agribusinesses that have perpetuated the “healthful” grain myth and government’s endorsement.  It is in their financial interests for consumers to believe that these foods are “good” for us.  Having run for Congress, I understand the depth of their influence; and your health and well being aren’t what they are interested in influencing.

For more information I refer you to two web sites I check daily:  Jimmy Moore’s low carb standard setting web site Livin La Vida Low Carband Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill web site.   I have been honored to be a guest on both gentleman’s podcast.

“3. The diet is high in animal protein, which could lead to an excess intake of saturated fat, resulting in elevated cholesterol levels, an increased risk of heart disease and increased risk of certain types of cancer.”

Again, the supposedly scientifically minded Dr. Melina has NOT done her research. The research is starting to show that it is systemic inflammation and insulin that are responsible for much of the heart disease and cholesterol cases. In the absence of carbohydrates, there is very little insulin released and there is little evidence of elevation of the risks she stated.  But take the previous sentence away; saturated fats in grass fed beef, wild caught seafood, free range poultry (and their eggs) is relatively low.  But how dare she allow the facts to get in the way of her conclusions.

“4. Finally, the diet can be expensive (grass-fed, organic meats and eggs are more expensive) and inconvenient due to the limitation of food choices, both of which make this diet less practical for the average person long term.”

My favorite and the easiest to debunk argument is one of expense.  This is another b.s. excuse which many of the enemies of good health like to use to justify prepackaged and processed junk.  Are some natural foods more expensive?  Yes they are, however you are not buying these good foods in addition to the crap that the average U.S. citizen consumes. You are purchasing them in place of the trash.  Therefore,  the increased cost is going to be offset by no longer purchasing highly refined, sugar soaked foods.  Add up how much a person will spend on soda, candy, doughnuts and other refined foods in the course of a day and you will learn that it really adds up. Cut out the crap; save money.  Then, there is the money spent on healthcare, gas (it cost more to drive around 350 pounds than it does 225) clothes and other obesity related expenses and the cost will be further offset.  Besides, isn’t it worth cutting back somewhere else and spending a little more on nutritious foods to have a better quality of life?

She advises Courtney L. to steer clear of the Paleo lifestyle, however she strangely includes this statement… “we can take away something from our ancestors by eating foods closer to their natural state (less processed), which are more nutrient-dense and digested more slowly by the body.”

Am I missing something?  I thought so until I checked out her web site.  It seems that the Doctor’s site is peppered with processed, prepackaged food suggestions and videos.  All she appears to do is replace really bad garbage, with what she claims to be not so bad garbage; when in fact it isn’t any healthier.  Perhaps the most disturbing, at least to me, tidbit of claim I found on the Doctor’s web site was this line, ” There are no gimmicks or empty promises here.”

NO GIMMICKS?  Really!  Look at the top of her site and we find a tab to Dr. Melina Bars.  Yes, the good Dr. Melina has her own line of chemically concocted, fake food to sell you.  Her bars have over twenty chemical ingredients; including soy, which is the topic for another posting.  The protein shake that I have each day has FOUR; that is 4, simple, pronounceable  ingredients. So, Dr. Melina Jampolis doesn’t want you to spend money on good natural foods, but wants you to purchase her fake food items.

Her Facebook page has an interesting note ” I just wanted to explain that while I welcome comments & questions on my fan page, I am not interested in arguing with people or allowing comments with which I disagree completely scientifically. I work very hard to provide what I feel is the best information for my fans. If you don’t agree with me, please do not follow me on facebook. “ 

So in other words; She’s right, everyone else is wrong and only the science that supports her conclusions will be accepted.

If you want to recapture your health and wellness I will give you the secrets that Dr. Melina doesn’t ant you to know about:

-exercise every day

-avoid starchy vegetables

-keep a positive mental attitude

-eat foods that are as close to nature as possible

-don’t eat prepackaged, chemically concocted, fake foods

-be pound wise, spend your money on real, great tasting foods

-avoid fruits while losing and then reintroduce them as you reach your goal

——————————————————————————————————————

Chiropractor, Dr. Joe Leonardi is the author of the life changing book,A Life Beyond Weight Loss.  He is available to appear on any talk radio, internet podcast or television outlet. He has appeared on Guest: Internet Radio: Cathie’s Talking, BlogTalk Radio. Topic, Dump The Fads, Focus On Fitness. TV -35′s Storm Politics with Tiffany Cloud, WILK’s The Sue Henry Show, Magic 93′s Frankie In The Morning, WBRE’s PA Live, SSPTV’s News 13, Public Television WVIA’s State of Pennsylvania and Call the Doctor; Entercom’s Outlook on Northeast PA with Shadoe Steele, Citadel Broadcasting’s Sunday Magazine with Brian Hughes, Lisa Davis’ Your Health Radio; Hank Garner’s Podcast, Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill Podcast; and the one and only Jimmy Moore’s Livin’ La Vida Low Carb podcast.

Dr. Joe Leonardi also will come and speak to your group; to learn more about his motivational speaking fees and availability contact him at docjoeleonardi@betterlifeseminars.com and check out his website www.betterlifeseminars.com.

———————————————————————————————————————

************The posting that I  write do not apply to those with an underlying medical or hormonal condition.  I advise anyone embarking on a weight loss and fitness plan to have a thorough medical evaluation. You want to be sure that you are physically able to exercise and you don’t have any underlying medical conditions.*************

Related articles

• The Paleo Diet: Are Our Ancestors the Key to Weight Loss? (fitsugar.com)
• Thanks To #AHS11, I’ve Shifted My Diet To A Low-Carb Paleo Approach (liberationwellnessblog.com)
• Anthony Bourdain Subtly Blasts Paula Deen On Twitter! (lukewilliamss.wordpress.com)
• Paula Deen and Adult Onset Diabetes (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)

I would like to begin with the disclaimer that I am NOT an expert on Paleolithic eating. However, I am an expert on how the human body functions.  I am a low carbohydrate proponent and follower — lately I have drifted to more of a Paleo model of eating.  My personal definition is that I eat very little, if any processed, prepackaged foods, very little starchy carbohydrates and simple sugars and no high fructose corn syrup.  I stick to the notion that if it can be found in nature, without (or else as little as possible) human intervention, I eat it.

I deviate from what I understand the Paleo plan to be in the fact that I eat some cheese and I have one, very basic protein shake a day.  Since I eat out quite frequently, grass fed beef, wild caught seafood and free range poultry aren’t always an option.  When I have the freedom to prepare, I consume the previous, but again, with my schedule: which begins by leaving the house at 4:30am and not arriving home until, at the earliest, 7pm — I follow the spirit, if not the letter of the law, of what I understand paleo eating to be.

On my Facebook profile, my buddy Big Tim, posted a link to a Q and A on CNN’s health page where a reader, Courtney L., had asked a question about the Paleo diet.  The reader’s question was answered by their “expert” Dr. Melina Jampolis.  I have never heard of Dr. Melina before, so I did some, admittedly very brief, research on her before writing this post.

I discovered among other facts that she is a lackey, I mean contributor, of none other than the other doctor who spouts just as much diet misinformation; Dr. Mehmet Oz.  What’s the old expression?  Birds of a feather?

Let’s take her response to fellow Pennsylvanian Courtney L. from Pittsburgh.  Dr. Melina starts with a false premise; the premise being that Paleo eating is a fad diet.  I agree that fad diets, or any diet which simply has the goal of weight loss is not the way to go.  However, if Dr. Melina actually had any intellectual curiosity, she would discover that those who follow solid, natural eating plans are not fad dieters.  No, we are just the opposite; we have made a commitment to changing our lifestyles. We eat a healthier way not simply to lose weight, but to live a better quality of life.

Dr. Melina includes in her answer many of the positive aspects of the Paleo eating style, which I don’t have much of a problem with; again, I am not a strict follower of the Paleo methodology, so I will defer to experts how accurate her conclusions and information are.

As a low carbohydrate, unprocessed, natural food follower, I have issues with her cons of Paleo and in relation low carb eating.  Her responses are numbered and italicized, my responses are in bold font:

“1. The diet eliminates dairy, an affordable and widely available source of bone-building calcium (and vitamin D when dairy foods are fortified) and protein (yes, calcium can be obtained from greens and other foods, but it is more challenging to consume adequate amounts.)“

Dairy is not essential to get calcium.   It is only affordable because the government keeps the prices artificially suppressed.  The fact is that the pasteurization process destroys much of the healthful ingredients that raw dairy possesses.  The word fortified, much like enriched, is code in the food industry for we put some, not all,  of the good stuff we destroyed in the processing of the product back in.  Since milk is relatively cheap, how high quality do you think the vitamin D that is used to fortify it is? Her “reason” that it is challenging to consume adequate amounts of greens and other foods are nothing more than an excuse.  Additionally, dairy isn’t even essential in the human diet. I challenge you to name another animal that consumes milk after infancy; while you’re at it, name one that drinks another animal’s milk.

“2. The diet eliminates all grains, including whole grains, which are a good source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and heart healthy fiber, and foods such as beans, peanuts and sweet potatoes, all of which have numerous health-promoting qualities.”

Whole grains ARE processed foods. I have never seen a bread bush, a pasta plant or an oatmeal tree. It takes a lot of effort to get these foods from field to plate. Every day there is more and more research being published that disputes the fact that whole grains are healthy.  I really wish we could get over this “whole” grain kick.  It is the deep pockets and lobbying efforts of agribusinesses that have perpetuated the “healthful” grain myth and government’s endorsement.  It is in their financial interests for consumers to believe that these foods are “good” for us.  Having run for Congress, I understand the depth of their influence; and your health and well being aren’t what they are interested in influencing.

For more information I refer you to two web sites I check daily:  Jimmy Moore’s low carb standard setting web site Livin La Vida Low Carband Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill web site.   I have been honored to be a guest on both gentleman’s podcast.

“3. The diet is high in animal protein, which could lead to an excess intake of saturated fat, resulting in elevated cholesterol levels, an increased risk of heart disease and increased risk of certain types of cancer.”

Again, the supposedly scientifically minded Dr. Melina hasn’t done her research. The research is starting to show that it is insulin that is responsible for much of the heart disease and cholesterol cases. In the absence of carbohydrates, there is very little insulin released and there is little evidence of elevation of the risks she stated.  But take the previous sentence away; saturated fats in grass fed beef, wild caught seafood, free range poultry (and their eggs) is relatively low.  But how dare she allow the facts to get in the way of her conclusions.

“4. Finally, the diet can be expensive (grass-fed, organic meats and eggs are more expensive) and inconvenient due to the limitation of food choices, both of which make this diet less practical for the average person long term.”

My favorite and the easiest to debunk argument is one of expense.  This is another b.s. excuse which many of the enemies of good health like to use to justify prepackaged and processed junk.  Are some natural foods more expensive?  Yes they are, however you are not buying these good foods in addition to the crap that the average U.S. citizen consumes, you are purchasing them in place of the trash.  Therefore,  the increased cost is going to be offset by no longer purchasing highly refined, sugar soaked foods.  Add up how much a person will spend on soda, candy, doughnuts and other refined foods in the course of a day and you will learn that it really adds up. Cut out the crap; save money.  Then there is the money spent on healthcare, gas (it cost more to drive around 350 pounds than it does 225) clothes and other obesity related expenses and the cost will be further offset.  Besides, isn’t it worth cutting back somewhere else and spending a little more on nutritious foods to have a better quality of life?

She advises Courtney L. to steer clear of the Paleo lifestyle, however she strangely includes this statement… “we can take away something from our ancestors by eating foods closer to their natural state (less processed), which are more nutrient-dense and digested more slowly by the body.”

Am I missing something?  I thought so until I checked out her web site.  It seems that the Doctor’s site is peppered with processed prepackaged food suggestions and videos.  All she appears to do is replace really bad garbage, with what she claims to be not so bad garbage; when in fact it isn’t any healthier.  Perhaps the most disturbing, at least to me, tidbit of claim I found on the Doctor’s web site was this line, ” There are no gimmicks or empty promises here.”

No gimmicks?  Really!  Look at the top of her site and we find a tab to Dr. Melina Bars.  Yes, the good Dr. Melina has her own line of chemically concocted, fake food to sell you.  Her bars have over twenty chemical ingredients; including soy, which is the topic for another posting, the protein shake that I have each day has FOUR; that is 4 simple, pronounceable  ingredients. So, Dr. Melina Jampolis doesn’t want you to spend money on good natural foods, but wants you to purchase her fake food items.

Her Facebook page has an interesting note ” I just wanted to explain that while I welcome comments & questions on my fan page, I am not interested in arguing with people or allowing comments with which I disagree completely scientifically. I work very hard to provide what I feel is the best information for my fans. If you don’t agree with me, please do not follow me on facebook. “ 

So in other words; She’s right, everyone else is wrong and only the science that supports her conclusions will be accepted.

If you want to recapture your health and wellness I will give you the secrets Dr. Melina doesn’t ant you to know:

-eat foods that are as close to nature as possible

-avoid starchy vegetables

-avoid fruits while losing and then reintroduce them as you reach your goal

-don’t eat prepackaged, chemically concocted fake foods

-exercise every day

-keep a positive mental attitude

-most importantly, spend your money on real, great tasting foods.

———————————————————————————————————————

Chiropractor, Dr. Joe Leonardi is the author of the life changing book; Fat Then Fit Now;  A life beyond weight loss.

Dr. Joe Leonardi is available to appear on any talk radio, internet podcasting or television outlet. He has appeared on Public Television WVIA’s State of Pennsylvania and Call the Doctor; Entercom’s Outlook on Northeast PA with Shadoe Steele, Citadel Broadcasting’s Sunday Magazine with Brian Hughes, Lisa Davis’ Your Health Radio; Jimmy Moore’s Livin’ La Vida Low Carb podcast; Hank Garner’s Podcast, Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill Podcast.

Dr. Joe Leonardi also will come and speak to your group; to learn more about his motivational speaking fees and availability contact him at fatthenfitnow@me.com

———————————————————————————————————————

************The posting that I  write do not apply to those with an underlying medical or hormonal condition.  I advise anyone embarking on a weight loss and fitness plan to have a thorough medical evaluation. You want to be sure that you are physically able to exercise and you don’t have any underlying medical conditions.*************

Related articles

• The Paleo Diet: Are Our Ancestors the Key to Weight Loss? (fitsugar.com)
• Thanks To #AHS11, I’ve Shifted My Diet To A Low-Carb Paleo Approach (liberationwellnessblog.com)
• Anthony Bourdain Subtly Blasts Paula Deen On Twitter! (lukewilliamss.wordpress.com)
• Paula Deen and Adult Onset Diabetes (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)

A Fit Mind Requires A Fit Body To House It

Image via Wikipedia

“I wish to preach, not the doctrine of ignoble ease, but the doctrine of the strenuous life, the life of toil and effort, of labor and strife; to preach that highest form of success which comes, not to the man who desires mere easy peace, but to the man who does not shrink from danger, from hardship, or from bitter toil, and who out of these wins the splendid ultimate triumph.” – Theodore Roosevelt

Last week, I was taking care of my girlfriend’s yard when the above quote came to mind. I use a manual, human powered, push mower and non-mechanical hedge clippers.  I edge the lawn using hand held clippers.  I worked for three hours in beautiful sunshine with the only scent in the air being that of  fresh cut grass. There were neither lung chocking emissions, nor noise  of  motors nor engines to spoil the idyllic day.

A neighbor happened by and asked me about my non-mechanically aided endeavorer. I stated it was not only enjoyable, but there was something very fulfilling to accomplish a task utilizing nothing but the strength of my body.  The person said, “But sometimes it is just better for work to be easier.”   I disagreed, however, I seem to be in the minority.

In today’s society we seem to have slipped into a false truth — that if it is easier, it is better. We have remote controls for everything; the television, garage door, fans and even air conditioners all have little devices so we no longer must heft ourselves out of our comfy seats and move. Hell, if you count the clapper, we don’t even have to get off of our rear-ends to operate a light switch.

Go out in public and you will find doors that open automatically, two-story shopping malls with escalators and you need but a wave of the hand to start water flowing from a sink or dispense a paper towel. We don’t even have to flush the toilet.

In society today it seems that we are always looking for the path of least resistance. The path that takes the least amount of work is the path most chosen. Even in the gym, where people are working out to get more fit, one can observe the same pattern. If say a person wants to use 50 pound dumbells for an exercise, but the weight is not there, many will go down to the 45′s instead of up to the 55′s.

Why not, while using proper form and safety precautions, test one’s self and go up in weight a bit?  Why not make it tad harder?

We are bombarded by marketing ploys that are supposed to make being healthy easy. Products will help us lose weight without any effort, they even market exercise machines that will magically produce results with little to no effort. Isn’t the point of exercise to promote effort?

Everywhere you travel foods of convenience dot the landscape.  Sugar filled, carbohydrate loaded junk is marketed and often promoted as health food.  Atkins, Low Carb, Paleolithic and Primal diets are dismissed by media “doctors” such as Dr. Melina Jampolis and “experts” who receive income from the industries that are destroying health.

We have moved away from the “Strenuous Life” President Theodore Roosevelt so extolled.

Cover of The Strenuous Life

Our schools continue to cut out recess and shortened gym classes, yet President Roosevelt used his belief in the strenuous life to overcome childhood ailments. He strongly believed in the adage that a fit mind requires a fit body to house it. He exercised, engaged in sport, he even skinny dipped in the Potomac River during the winter. While even under the best conditions, I would never consider swimming in the Susquehanna River as it runs along the Pittston to Wilkes-Barre corridor, I admire Teddy’s attitude and drive when it came to pursuing The Strenuous Life.

Image via Wikipedia

Our current President took more than a year to fill positions on The President’s Council on Physical Fitness, Sport & Nutrition. So, as the First Lady was admirably campaigns to increase awareness of childhood obesity, President Barack Obama delayed action on the council that was founded to encourage American children to be healthy and active.  Am I missing something?

In his 1899 address before the Hamilton Club, in of all places Chicago, Teddy Roosevelt asked the question, “Who among you would teach your boys that ease is to be the first consideration in their eyes—to be the ultimate goal after which they strive?

It seems that by today’s standard, the answer would be; most. Thanks to the conveniences of modern society life is easier.  However, considering the soaring obesity rates, both adult and childhood, are the results of ease worth the price?

So I ask the question  — Are we teaching our young men and women to strive for ease? If we are — How much damage are we doing?

———————————————————————————————————————

https://www.createspace.com/3903024

http://www.obesityundone.com/

Physical Culturist and Chiropractor, Dr. Joe Leonardi is the author of the life changing book, “Obesity Undone” and a contributor to NaturallySavvy.com and CarbSmart.com. He is available to appear on any talk radio, internet podcast or television outlet.

He has appeared on 94.3FM’s The David Maderia Show, What’s Weighing You Down, w/Dr. Marilyn Gansel on FTNS radio, Nurture and Nutrition on Blog Talk Radio, Low Carb Conversations with Jimmy Moore and Friends, BlogTalk Radio’s Toni Harris Speaks, Internet Radio: Cathie’s Talking, TV -35′s Storm Politics with Tiffany Cloud, WILK’s The Sue Henry Show, Magic 93′s Frankie In The Morning, WBRE’s PA Live, SSPTV’s News 13, Public Television WVIA’s State of Pennsylvania and Call the Doctor; Entercom’s Outlook on Northeast PA with Shadoe Steele, Citadel Broadcasting’s Sunday Magazine with Brian Hughes, Lisa Davis’ Your Health Radio; Hank Garner’s Podcast, Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill Podcast; and the one and only Jimmy Moore’s Livin’ La Vida Low Carb podcast.
Dr. Joe Leonardi also will come and speak to your group; to learn more about his motivational speaking fees and availability contact him at docjoeleonardi@betterlifeseminars.com and check out his website http://www.betterlifeseminars.com.
———————————————————————————————————————
************The information contained herin is for information purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or disorder. The posting and videos do not apply to those with an underlying medical or hormonal condition. I advise anyone embarking on a weight loss and fitness plan to have a thorough medical evaluation. You want to be sure that you are physically able to exercise and you don’t have any underlying medical conditions No guarantees are made or to be implied.************

 

Related articles

• Ken Salazar Hopes to Walk in Teddy Roosevelt’s Footsteps (usnews.com)
• Low Carb Breakfast Ideas (dietriffic.com)

What is Stressful?

Image via Wikipedia

In a recent column I asked the question; “Should exercise be fun?“ In that posting I responded that I did not believe fun was an overriding factor in what exercises you should choose, or have any influence in whether or not you should exercise. I even opened up with a quote from arguably one of the fittest people who has ever graced the planet earth, Jack LaLanne, who often said, “…. to go into a cold gym takes a lot of discipline, boy, I’ll tell ya. … I never liked to exercise, but I like results.”

I stated in the blog post that I actually enjoy certain exercises, but I don’t believe I actually have fun exercising.  I went on to explain my rationale for opining that fun was NOT a factor in determining an exercise routine, that what was important was the fact that through exercise, one  would improve their health and fitness level and thus, have fun in other aspects of life.

I received responses ranging from agreement to some very vehement disagreement, most of which were sent to me via email.  Those who disagreed with me claimed a few common themes.  They stated that if they weren’t having fun, they may not actually workout and besides that by not having fun, working out could be too stressful and hamper progress.

I can understand those who might not want to exercise if they weren’t having fun, but come on its only an hour or so a day.  If everything you do, every hour of every day of your life is fun, then I can say with complete honesty — I envy you.  While I enjoy most aspects of my life, I can’t say that I have fun at everything I do.  Besides, simply enjoying activities does not always constitute fun.

The argument about stress is one of those comments that gets my Sicilian up. Now I am well aware that I may offend or insult some who are reading this.  Since I don’t get either offended or insulted, I am never sure what will offend or insult someone else. However, it is not my desire to do either; it is just my intent to give my honest assessment of the argument. Just be aware you may get insulted or offended, perhaps both. So, with that said…

…ARE YOU *&%$@#! KIDDING ME?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?

Have we really become such a weak society that an hour or so of exercise each day, an activity that will improve our overall health, fitness, well being and allow us to better cope with every day stressors, is considered stressful?!? This is almost as flat out silly as a comment I received regarding daily weighing being too emotionally draining.  I say that if either of these particular activities stress you out, then perhaps you need to consider what exactly is stressful and that stress is an unavoidable part of every day life.

Often times, it is all about perspective.  It is one of those life lessons I learned in the military.  When I put a certain situation in perspective, the perceived stress really isn’t all that intense.

So, if you feel that jumping up on scale once a day is stressful; think of our very brave military men and women jumping out of the way of enemy fire in Iraq or Afghanistan. Compared to their jump — is yours really all that stressful?

If you are stressed out because the exercise you must endure for an hour each day isn’t fun; think of the single mother or father who may be lucky to get an hour with their child(ren) because they are going from job to job so they can earn enough money to put food on the table. Is an hour investment in fitness really all that stressful?

How about the parents who haven’t worked in more than a year and the bank is ready to foreclose and make them and their children homeless.  Or how about a parent fighting cancer and coping with the possibility that they may not be around to care for their children. Or even worse, the parents that have to face the unimaginable, tragic and horrific diagnosis that their young child has cancer and may not be with them for Christmas this year.

I understand that at times I am harsh, and that this time I may be extremely so.  However, losing perspective and allowing perceived stress to win out over genuine stress cost me much, including all of my life savings, my marriage, my fitness, my health and almost my life.  We are facing an obesity epidemic.  An epidemic that effects both adults and children.  What is most disturbing is that it is an epidemic of our own making; an epidemic that requires inner strength in the form of  desire, determination and discipline to overcome.  So, if I get a little irate at whiny, mental weakness that some folks may turn into excuses, that others will take further into indolence and thus contribute to our obesity epidemic then I apologize — NO I take that back; I make no apologies for my effort to save a few lives and improve the quality of life for many more.

———————————————————————————————————————

https://www.createspace.com/3903024

http://www.obesityundone.com/

Physical Culturist and Chiropractor, Dr. Joe Leonardi is the author of the life changing book, “Obesity Undone” and a contributor to NaturallySavvy.com and CarbSmart.com. He is available to appear on any talk radio, internet podcast or television outlet.

He has appeared on 94.3FM’s The David Maderia Show, What’s Weighing You Down, w/Dr. Marilyn Gansel on FTNS radio, Nurture and Nutrition on Blog Talk Radio, Low Carb Conversations with Jimmy Moore and Friends, BlogTalk Radio’s Toni Harris Speaks, Internet Radio: Cathie’s Talking, TV -35′s Storm Politics with Tiffany Cloud, WILK’s The Sue Henry Show, Magic 93′s Frankie In The Morning, WBRE’s PA Live, SSPTV’s News 13, Public Television WVIA’s State of Pennsylvania and Call the Doctor; Entercom’s Outlook on Northeast PA with Shadoe Steele, Citadel Broadcasting’s Sunday Magazine with Brian Hughes, Lisa Davis’ Your Health Radio; Hank Garner’s Podcast, Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill Podcast; and the one and only Jimmy Moore’s Livin’ La Vida Low Carb podcast.
Dr. Joe Leonardi also will come and speak to your group; to learn more about his motivational speaking fees and availability contact him at docjoeleonardi@betterlifeseminars.com and check out his website http://www.betterlifeseminars.com.
———————————————————————————————————————
************The information contained herin is for information purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or disorder. The posting and videos do not apply to those with an underlying medical or hormonal condition. I advise anyone embarking on a weight loss and fitness plan to have a thorough medical evaluation. You want to be sure that you are physically able to exercise and you don’t have any underlying medical conditions No guarantees are made or to be implied.************

 

Related articles

• Should Exercise Be Fun? (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)
• Inspiration Revisited (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)
• Archieve of my latest interview concerning childhood obesity and bullying (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)
• Effective Methodology For Losing Weight and Achieving Fitness (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)
• Can The Gym Be Your Church For Physical Well-being? (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)

Should Exercise Be Fun?

“…. to go into a cold gym takes a lot of discipline, boy, I’ll tell ya. … I never liked to exercise, but I like results.”   Jack LaLanne

I was reading on one of the many Facebook pages I belong to and someone was asking about not feeling up to a workout.  Some of the responses suggested that workouts must be fun.  As I read them I had to ask myself two questions:

Are my workouts fun? Do they need to be?

My exercise routine is spit into two portions:

Strength training, in which I use weight lifting.

Endurance training, in which I use a combination of jogging, sprints and rope skipping.

Yes, I will admit that there is something exhilarating about pitting myself against cold, unyielding iron.  I look forward to my mornings in the gym.  If I am pressed for time, I always get in some sort of weight training. While I do relish weightlifting, I’m not sure if the word fun would be an apt descriptor.

When it comes to jogging; I like the the time alone, free from distractions, outside enjoying the weather, but do I have fun? Not really. I am not even sure I even enjoy the activity itself.  I am not really built for running, either physically or mentally, but because of the results I attain,  I get out there and I do it.

I am not sure if fun should be part of the criteria for going out and exercising or even in  the choice of a particular exercise.  I pick and chose my routine for the results I am going to achieve.  When I am bulking up and adding strength, my weight training is slower and the weights I use are much heavier.  I still jog, but I cover less distance and I do it at a much slower pace.  When I a leaning out, I decrease the poundage and I move much quicker.  I cover more distance when I jog, I do it at a faster pace and I include rope skipping and sprints.

No matter what my particular goal is, I always include both progressive resistance and endurance training.  They both contribute to the overall result I am looking to achieve.

Is fun important?  I guess it could be, but it isn’t a requirement.  Exercise should be done to improve the overall quality of life.  While I don’t really consider my exercise routine fun, it makes much of the other activities that I engage in much more fun. When I was in Chiropractic school I spent hours upon hours studying for classes, quizzes, exams and boards.  Did I have fun during all that study time? I would have to say no, but it was necessary to achieve my goal.  I look at exercise much the same way.  My goal in regards to exercise is not to have fun during my exercise time; it is to achieve an improved level of fitness. The fun is in the results —

Image via Wikipedia

-because I am fit, I am able to hike longer and more difficult trails.

-because I am fit, I am able to participate more actively in beach and ocean activities

-because I am fit, I am able to live every aspect of my life much fuller and with much greater joy.

So, is fun a requirement when it comes to choosing an exercise routine? Perhaps to some, but it wasn’t to Jack LaLanne and it really isn’t to me.  I am much more concerned with the results of the exercises I pick.  Taking into account travel to the track, then to the gym, showering and dressing — only about ninety minutes of my day is focused on exercise. While fun is nice; I prefer effectiveness, which in turn  improves the quality of  the remaining twenty-two and a half  hours (and, yes, I sleep better because of exercise) of my day.

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https://www.createspace.com/3903024

http://www.obesityundone.com/

Physical Culturist and Chiropractor, Dr. Joe Leonardi is the author of the life changing book, “Obesity Undone” and a contributor to NaturallySavvy.com and CarbSmart.com. He is available to appear on any talk radio, internet podcast or television outlet.

He has appeared on 94.3FM’s The David Maderia Show, What’s Weighing You Down, w/Dr. Marilyn Gansel on FTNS radio, Nurture and Nutrition on Blog Talk Radio, Low Carb Conversations with Jimmy Moore and Friends, BlogTalk Radio’s Toni Harris Speaks, Internet Radio: Cathie’s Talking, TV -35′s Storm Politics with Tiffany Cloud, WILK’s The Sue Henry Show, Magic 93′s Frankie In The Morning, WBRE’s PA Live, SSPTV’s News 13, Public Television WVIA’s State of Pennsylvania and Call the Doctor; Entercom’s Outlook on Northeast PA with Shadoe Steele, Citadel Broadcasting’s Sunday Magazine with Brian Hughes, Lisa Davis’ Your Health Radio; Hank Garner’s Podcast, Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill Podcast; and the one and only Jimmy Moore’s Livin’ La Vida Low Carb podcast.
Dr. Joe Leonardi also will come and speak to your group; to learn more about his motivational speaking fees and availability contact him at docjoeleonardi@betterlifeseminars.com and check out his website http://www.ObesityUndone.com.
———————————————————————————————————————
************The information herein is for information purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or disorder. The posting and videos do not apply to those with an underlying medical or hormonal condition. I advise anyone embarking on a weight loss and fitness plan to have a thorough medical evaluation. You want to be sure that you are physically able to exercise and you don’t have any underlying medical conditions No guarantees are made or to be implied.************

Related articles

• I Was Martin Kessman (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)
• Effective Methodology For Losing Weight and Achieving Fitness (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)
• Archieve of my latest interview concerning childhood obesity and bullying (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)
• Dr. Melina Jampolis’s Implied Advice: Purchasing Natural, Whole Foods Are Expensive – Buy Dr. Melina Bars Instead (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)
• Can The Gym Be Your Church For Physical Well-being? (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)

I Am Glad I Did NOT Accept MY Obesity!

{When it comes to anything I write, I do not have cowardly policies as Dr. Melina Jampolis and others may have.  If you disagree or even dislike anything I write, feel free to comment here or on my facebook page.  All I ask is that you don’t use vulgarity, nor insult or attack anyone else.  If you would like to insult me, go ahead.  I can take it, unlike other so-called experts I am not thin skinned.  Joe Leonardi, D.C. }

In regards to a previous Enemies of the State of Good Health posting, I was sent a message from one of my readers asking me, in reagards to the Fat Acceptance Movement being included,  what is wrong with the acceptance of larger people?

That is a very valid question.

One that deserves a response.

There isn’t any problem.

I don’t like or dislike someone based upon their weight or appearance.  Overweight, large or obese people were not the subject, nor enemies of the state of good health.  The “enemy” was the organization and others like it.

My dislike for the Fat Acceptance Movement has nothing to do with individuals who are struggling with weight issues. My dislike for the movement,  stems from having been morbidly obese at one time and having thought that the world should accommodate my girth because of my lack of self-control and self-discipline.  The Fat Acceptance Movement promotes an almost civil rights tone, pushing for obese people to be treated like a minority.  I simply disagree.  As I have stated many times, in the absence of an underlying condition, being overweight or obese is a choice.  It may not be a conscious choice, but it is a choice.

me at 340 pounds on March 1, 2008

My former incarnation, Joe.340, thought as what I have read are the beliefs which the Fat Acceptance Movement  promotes.  I was appalled that booths in restaurants were not more spacious.  I genuinely believed that movie theater seats should be roomier.   Also, why couldn’t they have less seats on an airplane and make them all as big as first class? It was my personal belief that others should conform and adapt to me.

Well, that is the problem and that is my main issue.  The Fat Acceptance Movement wants the world to change for them and in turn promote an unhealthy life.  And despite some exceptions, most people who are obese are NOT healthy.

I never suggest to a person that they should lose weight.  I was recently emailed someone’s height and weight and asked whether or not I thought they should lose weight.  I responded to the person that I help those who want to lose weight and recapture their health.   I do not decide for someone if they need to lose weight, even if it the answer is obvious.  It is up to an individual to decide, not only if they need to lose weight, but more importantly, that they want to lose weight.

I live by the mantra that weight loss is a side effect of fitness.  The primary goal of what I do is to get people to embrace fitness, eating low carbohydrate foods found as close to their natural state as possible (a paleolithic model) and good health.  People who have read or heard about me seek me out to lose weight and I help them do that, yet I don’t make the weight loss the only motivation nor the only goal.  The numbers on the scale are a useful feedback tool to reach the most important goal; improvement of their overall health.

Most people who are overweight or obese are not in an optimal state of health and fitness. Yes, I am aware that there are exceptions to the rule, but I am not even sure about those exceptions. Additionally, I am by no means saying that if you are not overweight, you are fit.  There are plenty of folks who do not have a weight problem that are pure physical wrecks.  I am willing to help them as well.  However, I can only relate personal experiences and that is what I try to share.

Back to being overweight, yet fit. Years ago, before I had gotten up to three hundred and forty pounds, I may have fallen,  kind of — sort of,  into that category.  I was in the gym religiously, focusing mostly on strength training and doing very little endurance exercises.  I was stronger than I had been in my entire life.  I weighed about two hundred and eighty pounds, I was carrying around excess fat, but muscular development was obvious.  The joke at the gym where I trained was, I could lift the entire gym… I just couldn’t walk around it.

Was I fit because I was strong?

Was I healthy because my lab work was all good?

Was I fit because my vital signs fell within normal ranges?

You better believe that I was convinced I was fit.  In my delusional mind, I didn’t need to lose weight.  I could not have been more wrong.  That excuse-making, rationalizing mindset was a direct factor in the birth of Joe.340.

I am also not saying we should judge anyone based upon appearance.   What I AM saying is that I do not believe that we should accept our own self-imposed limitations.  We have the power to improve our health and we should not allow a group, no matter how well intentioned,  to dis-empower us.

340lbs 3/1/2008

When I was obese, I could not tie my own shoes.

When I was obese, I could not rise out of a chair without pushing off the arm rests.

When I was obese, I could not get up out of a low couch without rolling over on my stomach, placing my knees on the floor and pushing myself to a standing position.

Were any of the above examples really acceptable?  Unfortunately, for me, they were —- for far too long.

I have been accused of being harsh.

I have been accused of being unyielding.

I have been accused of being unsympathetic.

Well, let me tell you a few things:

200lbs 3/6/2009

I am harsh!  I wish someone was more harsh with me. I don’t want someone to have to be sitting in the emergency room with chest pains, as I was, to realize they need to do something now.

I am unyielding!  I have heard all the excuses, I have used most of them, giving in to the excuses will only make the situation worse.

I am NOT unsympathetic!  Trust me, I was there, I am very sympathetic.  However, I don’t express my sympathy by encouraging lackadaisical behaviors.  I show my sympathy by assisting those who seek my help to reach their goals.

It is my life’s mission, to help those who wish to take control of their poor eating and exercise habits. It is my desire that through fitness, everyone enjoy an improved quality of life.

And, if I am lucky, I will save a life or two along the way.

——————————————————————————————————————

Chiropractor, Dr. Joe Leonardi is the author of the life changing book, A Life Beyond Weight Loss. He is available to appear on any talk radio, internet podcasting or television outlet. He has appeared on WILK’s The Sue Henry Show, Magic 93′s Frankie In The Morning, WBRE’s PA Live, SSPTV’s News 13, Public Television WVIA’s State of Pennsylvania and Call the Doctor; Entercom’s Outlook on Northeast PA with Shadoe Steele, Citadel Broadcasting’s Sunday Magazine with Brian Hughes, Lisa Davis’ Your Health Radio; Jimmy Moore’s Livin’ La Vida Low Carb podcast; Hank Garner’s Podcast, Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill Podcast.

Dr. Joe Leonardi also will come and speak to your group; to learn more about his motivational speaking fees and availability contact him at docjoeleonardi@betterlifeseminars.com and check out his web site www.betterlifeseminars.com.

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************The posting that I write do not apply to those with an underlying medical or hormonal condition. I advise anyone embarking on a weight loss and fitness plan to have a thorough medical evaluation. You want to be sure that you are physically able to exercise and you don’t have any underlying medical conditions.*************

Related articles

• Obesity Victimization Does Not Defeat Obesity (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)
• Dr. Melina Jampolis’s Implied Advice: Purchasing Natural, Whole Foods Are Expensive – Buy Dr. Melina Bars Instead (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)
• I Was Martin Kessman (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)

Dr. Melina Jampolis’s Implied Advice: Purchasing Natural, Whole Foods Are Expensive — Buy Dr. Melina Bars Instead

I would like to begin with the disclaimer that I am NOT an expert on Paleolithic eating. However, I am an expert on how the human body functions.  I am a low carbohydrate proponent and follower — lately I have drifted to more of a Paleo model of eating.  My personal definition is that I eat very little, if any processed, prepackaged foods, very little starchy carbohydrates and simple sugars and no high fructose corn syrup.  I stick to the notion that if it can be found in nature, without (or else as little as possible) human intervention, I eat it.

Image via Wikipedia

I deviate from what I understand the Paleo plan to be in the fact that I eat some cheese and I have one, very basic protein shake a day.  Since I eat out quite frequently, grass fed beef, wild caught seafood and free range poultry aren’t always an option.  When I have the freedom to prepare, I consume the previous, but again, with my schedule: which begins by leaving the house at 4:30am and not arriving home until, at the earliest, 7pm — I follow the spirit, if not the letter of the law, of what I understand paleo eating to be.

On my Facebook profile, my buddy Big Tim, posted a link to a Q and A on CNN’s health page where a reader, Courtney L., had asked a question about the Paleo diet.  The reader’s question was answered by their “expert” Dr. Melina Jampolis.  I have never heard of Dr. Melina before, so I did some, admittedly very brief, research on her before writing this post.

Let’s take her response to fellow Pennsylvanian Courtney L. from Pittsburgh.  Dr. Melina starts with a false premise; the premise being that Paleo eating is a fad diet.  I agree that fad diets, or any diet which simply has the goal of weight loss is not the way to go.  However, if Dr. Melina actually had any intellectual curiosity, she would discover that those who follow solid, natural eating plans are not fad dieters.  No, we are just the opposite; we have made a commitment to changing our lifestyles. We eat a healthier way not simply to lose weight, but to live a better quality of life.

Dr. Melina includes in her answer many of the positive aspects of the Paleo eating style, which I don’t have much of a problem with; again, I am not a strict follower of the Paleo methodology, so I will defer to experts how accurate her conclusions and information are.

As a low carbohydrate, unprocessed, natural food follower, I have issues with her cons of Paleo and in relation low carb eating.  Her responses are numbered and italicized, my responses are in bold font:

“1. The diet eliminates dairy, an affordable and widely available source of bone-building calcium (and vitamin D when dairy foods are fortified) and protein (yes, calcium can be obtained from greens and other foods, but it is more challenging to consume adequate amounts.)“

Dairy is not essential to get calcium.   It is only affordable because the government keeps the prices artificially suppressed.  The fact is that the pasteurization process destroys much of the healthful ingredients that raw dairy possesses.  The word fortified, much like enriched, is code in the food industry for we put some, not all,  of the good stuff we destroyed in the processing of the product back in.  Since milk is relatively cheap, how high quality do you think the vitamin D that is used to fortify it is? Her “reason” that it is challenging to consume adequate amounts of greens and other foods are nothing more than an excuse.  Additionally, dairy isn’t even essential in the human diet. I challenge you to name another animal that consumes milk after infancy; while you’re at it, name one that drinks another animal’s milk.

“2. The diet eliminates all grains, including whole grains, which are a good source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and heart healthy fiber, and foods such as beans, peanuts and sweet potatoes, all of which have numerous health-promoting qualities.”

Whole grains ARE processed foods. I have never seen a bread bush, a pasta plant or an oatmeal tree. It takes a lot of effort to get these foods from field to plate. Every day there is more and more research being published that disputes the fact that whole grains are healthy.  I really wish we could get over this “whole” grain kick.  It is the deep pockets and lobbying efforts of agribusinesses that have perpetuated the “healthful” grain myth and government’s endorsement.  It is in their financial interests for consumers to believe that these foods are “good” for us.  Having run for Congress, I understand the depth of their influence; and your health and well being aren’t what they are interested in influencing.

For more information I refer you to two web sites I check daily:  Jimmy Moore’s low carb standard setting web site Livin La Vida Low Carband Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill web site.   I have been honored to be a guest on both gentleman’s podcast.

“3. The diet is high in animal protein, which could lead to an excess intake of saturated fat, resulting in elevated cholesterol levels, an increased risk of heart disease and increased risk of certain types of cancer.”

Again, the supposedly scientifically minded Dr. Melina hasn’t done her research. The research is starting to show that it is insulin that is responsible for much of the heart disease and cholesterol cases. In the absence of carbohydrates, there is very little insulin released and there is little evidence of elevation of the risks she stated.  But take the previous sentence away; saturated fats in grass fed beef, wild caught seafood, free range poultry (and their eggs) is relatively low.  But how dare she allow the facts to get in the way of her conclusions.

“4. Finally, the diet can be expensive (grass-fed, organic meats and eggs are more expensive) and inconvenient due to the limitation of food choices, both of which make this diet less practical for the average person long term.”

My favorite and the easiest to debunk argument is one of expense.  This is another b.s. excuse which many of the enemies of good health like to use to justify prepackaged and processed junk.  Are some natural foods more expensive?  Yes they are, however you are not buying these good foods in addition to the crap that the average U.S. citizen consumes, you are purchasing them in place of the trash.  Therefore,  the increased cost is going to be offset by no longer purchasing highly refined, sugar soaked foods.  Add up how much a person will spend on soda, candy, doughnuts and other refined foods in the course of a day and you will learn that it really adds up. Cut out the crap; save money.  Then there is the money spent on healthcare, gas (it cost more to drive around 350 pounds than it does 225) clothes and other obesity related expenses and the cost will be further offset.  Besides, isn’t it worth cutting back somewhere else and spending a little more on nutritious foods to have a better quality of life?

She advises Courtney L. to steer clear of the Paleo lifestyle, however she strangely includes this statement… “we can take away something from our ancestors by eating foods closer to their natural state (less processed), which are more nutrient-dense and digested more slowly by the body.”

Am I missing something?  I thought so until I checked out her web site.  It seems that the Doctor’s site is peppered with processed prepackaged food suggestions and videos.  All she appears to do is replace really bad garbage, with what she claims to be not so bad garbage; when in fact it isn’t any healthier.  Perhaps the most disturbing, at least to me, tidbit of claim I found on the Doctor’s web site was this line, ” There are no gimmicks or empty promises here.”

No gimmicks?  Really!  Look at the top of her site and we find a tab to Dr. Melina Bars.  Yes, the good Dr. Melina has her own line of chemically concocted, fake food to sell you.  Her bars have over twenty chemical ingredients; including soy, which is the topic for another posting, the protein shake that I have each day has FOUR; that is 4 simple, pronounceable  ingredients. So, Dr. Melina Jampolis doesn’t want you to spend money on good natural foods, but wants you to purchase her fake food items.

Her Facebook page has an interesting note ” I just wanted to explain that while I welcome comments & questions on my fan page, I am not interested in arguing with people or allowing comments with which I disagree completely scientifically. I work very hard to provide what I feel is the best information for my fans. If you don’t agree with me, please do not follow me on facebook. “ 

So in other words; She’s right, everyone else is wrong and only the science that supports her conclusions will be accepted.

If you want to recapture your health and wellness I will give you the secrets Dr. Melina doesn’t ant you to know:

-eat foods that are as close to nature as possible

-avoid starchy vegetables

-avoid fruits while losing and then reintroduce them as you reach your goal

-don’t eat prepackaged, chemically concocted fake foods

-exercise every day

-keep a positive mental attitude

-most importantly, spend your money on real, great tasting foods.

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Chiropractor, Dr. Joe Leonardi is the author of the life changing book; Fat Then Fit Now;  A life beyond weight loss.

Dr. Joe Leonardi is available to appear on any talk radio, internet podcasting or television outlet. He has appeared on Public Television WVIA’s State of Pennsylvania and Call the Doctor; Entercom’s Outlook on Northeast PA with Shadoe Steele, Citadel Broadcasting’s Sunday Magazine with Brian Hughes, Lisa Davis’ Your Health Radio; Jimmy Moore’s Livin’ La Vida Low Carb podcast; Hank Garner’s Podcast, Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill Podcast.

Dr. Joe Leonardi also will come and speak to your group; to learn more about his motivational speaking fees and availability contact him at fatthenfitnow@me.com

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************The posting that I  write do not apply to those with an underlying medical or hormonal condition.  I advise anyone embarking on a weight loss and fitness plan to have a thorough medical evaluation. You want to be sure that you are physically able to exercise and you don’t have any underlying medical conditions.*************

Related articles

• The Paleo Diet: Are Our Ancestors the Key to Weight Loss? (fitsugar.com)
• Thanks To #AHS11, I’ve Shifted My Diet To A Low-Carb Paleo Approach (liberationwellnessblog.com)

Dr. Melina Jampolis’s Advise: Don’t Waste Money On Natural Whole Foods — Buy Dr. Melina Bars

I WAS Martin Kessman

{What I am about to write is based on the fact that there has been no report that Mr. Kessman has an underlying medical or genetic condition that IS the cause of his morbid obesity.  All what I write is intended to be about my experience and for those who do NOT have an underlying medical condition.}

I have read with interest, the very limited reporting on Martin Kessman and his lawsuit against Weight Castle, I mean White Castle. Not too long ago I weighed a ponderous, pachydermian 340 pounds. I was not overweight, nor heavy, nor big-boned, nor simply obese; I had morphed into the morbidly obese category.

I would belt my pants first because I couldn’t reach around to put it through the loops when I was wearing them.

I feared getting on an airplane, not because of flying, because I couldn’t fit into the seat.

I couldn’t walk a flight of stairs without stopping to deeply inhale much needed air.

I wore loafers or pre-tied my shoes, because I couldn’t bend over to tie them.

And YES, I could NOT fit into any BOOTH at a restaurant; fast food or other.

I have genuine issues with people who attempt to play the victim card for their own poor eating choices. I have genuine issues with people who expect the world to bow to their lack of self-control. And, I have genuine issues with people who attempt to exploit accommodations for those who have real disabilities, because of their lack of self-discipline. Much of what I write may be perceived as harsh, but when people don’t take responsibility for their own health and fitness, as I once did not, it get’s my Sicilian blood boiling.

The Americans with Disabilities Act, exists to make sure people, who through no fault of their own, who have a disability, have equal access to goods and services. What is astonishing, is that there are those who have true disabilities who do NOT allow their perceived disability to be an obstacle in their lives.

I wrote about a young women, Stephanie Jallen, who was born with congenital issues that left her with an underdeveloped arm and required one leg to be amputated. This young woman is pursuing her goal of competing in the 2014 Paralympics. When I interviewed her for a follow up column, I asked her how I should refer to her.  Should I say she is handicapped? A special needs person? — I wasn’t sure what term to use.

She told me I should refer to her as normal, she then added — HANDICAPPED IS A MENTAL STATE!  This young woman was only 13 years old when she made that statement, not an adult who is well aware that his or her limitations are their own cause.

Image by Kanaka Menehune via Flickr

Photo by Noah Hamilton (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The other inspirational individual I wrote about is Bethany Hamilton.  Her story was captured in the film Soul Surfer. For those who don’t know who she is; at the age of 13, while surfing, Bethany had her arm bitten off by a shark.  Let me repeat that,  her arm was bitten off by a shark. Instead of crying to the world to feel sorry for her, young Bethany embarked on a training regiment and made modifications, so she could continue her dream of pursuing a pro surfing career.  By the way, today she is a pro surfer.

Neither of the above inspirational individual’s situation was caused because they overstuffed themselves with food.  Neither situation was the result of self-inflicted limitations.  So, what does it say about our society that people of age and maturity complain about being victims of circumstance, circumstance that they themselves created? Amazing!  More amazing is that  people as young as thirteen don’t want society to make accommodations for them?  They don’t want to be viewed as disabled.  They are so driven and so focused that they go on to achieve and fulfill their dreams; while other simply cry victim and want the world to change for them.

If Mr. Kessman does not have an underlying medical condition; then perhaps instead of eating obesity inducing food at White Castle since 1959, he should have been following a low carb, paleo or primal diet and exercising.  In his lawsuit he claims “his inability to fit into the “booth-style seating” was “extremely embarrassing … to have to experience in front of a restaurant full of customers,” yet, he has no problem posing his protruding abdomen for a picture to be spread all over the world.

He claims to just want to sit down like a normal person.  First off, what is normal?  I don’t strive to be normal; I strive for excellence, but with that said, if he wants to sit in a booth like a normal person, then push the plate away and, after medical clearance via a  thorough physical, start doing more exercise than simply lifting food to his mouth.

I can relate to Mr Kessman, I was him.  Hell, I was once even more obese than he.  If he would like to enjoy his remaining years and have a better physical quality of life, I will be more than willing to take him on as a client and get him in shape.

Finally, of what I have read, one claim of his did bring a knowing smile to my face.  He claims the he is not humongous, he is just a big guy.

Funny, I used to tell myself that  as well.

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Physical Culturist and Chiropractor, Dr. Joe Leonardi is the author of the life changing book, “Obesity Undone” and a contributor to NaturallySavvy.com. He is available to appear on any talk radio, internet podcast or television outlet. His web site www.ObesityUndone.com is available to help you reach your goals.

He has appeared on 94.3FM’s The David Maderia Show, Bounce Back to Your Brilliance w/Angel Tyree, What’s Weighing You Downw/Dr. Marilyn Gansel on FTNS radio, Nurture and Nutrition on Blog Talk Radio, Low Carb Conversations with Jimmy Moore and Friends, BlogTalk Radio’s Toni Harris Speaks, Internet Radio: Cathie’s Talking, TV -35′s Storm Politics with Tiffany Cloud, WILK’s The Sue Henry Show, Magic 93′s Frankie In The Morning, WBRE’s PA Live, SSPTV’s News 13, Public Television WVIA’s State of Pennsylvania and Call the Doctor; Entercom’s Outlook on Northeast PA with Shadoe Steele, Citadel Broadcasting’s Sunday Magazine with Brian Hughes, Lisa Davis’ Your Health Radio; Hank Garner’s Podcast, Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill Podcast; and the one and only Jimmy Moore’s Livin’ La Vida Low Carb podcast.
Dr. Joe Leonardi also will come and speak to your group; to learn more about his motivational speaking fees and availability contact him at docjoeleonardi@betterlifeseminars.com and check out his website www.betterlifeseminars.com.
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************The information contained herein is for information purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or disorder. The posting that I write do not apply to those with an underlying medical or hormonal condition. I advise anyone embarking on a weight loss and fitness plan to have a thorough medical evaluation. You want to be sure that you are physically able to exercise and you don’t have any underlying medical conditions.************

 

Related articles

• Fat man demands civil rights (fellowshipofminds.wordpress.com)
• White Castle and the Fatman (atlmalcontent.wordpress.com)
• Obesity Victimization Does Not Defeat Obesity (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)
• Dr. Melina Jampolis Is Wrong On Paleo Eating! (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)

I Was Obese and Out Of Shape — I Was Martin Kessman

{What I am about to write is based on the fact that there has been no report that Mr. Kessman has an underlying medical or genetic condition that IS the cause of his morbid obesity.  All what I write is intended to be about my experience and for those who do NOT have an underlying medical condition.}

I have read with interest, the very limited reporting on Martin Kessman and his lawsuit against Weight Castle, I mean White Castle. Not too long ago I weighed a ponderous, pachydermian 340 pounds. I was not overweight, nor heavy, nor big-boned, nor simply obese; I had morphed into the morbidly obese category.

I would belt my pants first because I couldn’t reach around to put it through the loops when I was wearing them.

I feared getting on an airplane, not because of flying, because I couldn’t fit into the seat.

I couldn’t walk a flight of stairs without stopping to deeply inhale much needed air.

I wore loafers or pre-tied my shoes, because I couldn’t bend over to tie them.

And YES, I could NOT fit into any BOOTH at a restaurant; fast food or other.

I have genuine issues with people who attempt to play the victim card for their own poor eating choices. I have genuine issues with people who expect the world to bow to their lack of self-control. And, I have genuine issues with people who attempt to exploit accommodations for those who have real disabilities, because of their lack of self-discipline. Much of what I write may be perceived as harsh, but when people don’t take responsibility for their own health and fitness, as I once did not, it get’s my Sicilian blood boiling.

The Americans with Disabilities Act, exists to make sure people, who through no fault of their own, who have a disability, have equal access to goods and services. What is astonishing, is that there are those who have true disabilities who do NOT allow their perceived disability to be an obstacle in their lives.

I wrote about a young women, Stephanie Jallen, who was born with congenital issues that left her with an underdeveloped arm and required one leg to be amputated. This young woman is pursuing her goal of competing in the 2014 Paralympics. When I interviewed her for a follow up column, I asked her how I should refer to her.  Should I say she is handicapped? A special needs person? — I wasn’t sure what term to use.

She told me I should refer to her as normal, she then added — HANDICAPPED IS A MENTAL STATE!  This young woman was only 13 years old when she made that statement, not an adult who is well aware that his or her limitations are their own cause.

Image by Kanaka Menehune via Flickr

The other inspirational individual I wrote about is Bethany Hamilton.  Her story was captured in the film Soul Surfer. For those who don’t know who she is; at the age of 13, while surfing, Bethany had her arm bitten off by a shark.  Let me repeat that,  her arm was bitten off by a shark. Instead of crying to the world to feel sorry for her, young Bethany embarked on a training regiment and made modifications, so she could continue her dream of pursuing a pro surfing career.  By the way, today she is a pro surfer.

Neither of the above inspirational individual’s situation was caused because they overstuffed themselves with food.  Neither situation was the result of self-inflicted limitations.  So, what does it say about our society that people of age and maturity complain about being victims of circumstance, circumstance that they themselves created? Amazing!  More amazing is that  people as young as thirteen don’t want society to make accommodations for them?  They don’t want to be viewed as disabled.  They are so driven and so focused that they go on to achieve and fulfill their dreams; while other simply cry victim and want the world to change for them.

If Mr. Kessman does not have an underlying medical condition; then perhaps instead of eating obesity inducing food at White Castle since 1959, he should have been following a low carb diet and exercising.  In his lawsuit he claims “his inability to fit into the “booth-style seating” was “extremely embarrassing … to have to experience in front of a restaurant full of customers,” yet, he has no problem posing his protruding abdomen for a picture to be spread all over the world.

He claims to just want to sit down like a normal person.  First off, what is normal?  I don’t strive to be normal; I strive for excellence, but with that said, if he wants to sit in a booth like a normal person, then push the plate away and, after medical clearance via a  thorough physical, start doing more exercise than simply lifting food to his mouth.

I can relate to Mr Kessman.  I was once even more obese than he.  If he would like to enjoy his remaining years and have a better physical quality of life, I will be more than willing to take him on as a client and get him in shape.

Finally, of what I have read, one claim of his did bring a knowing smile to my face.  He claims the he is not humongous, he is just a big guy.

Funny, I used to tell myself that  as well.

——————————————————————————————————

Physical Culturist and Chiropractor, Dr. Joe Leonardi is the author of the life changing book, “Obesity Undone” and a contributor to NaturallySavvy.com. He is available to appear on any talk radio, internet podcast or television outlet. His web site www.ObesityUndone.com is available to help you reach your goals.

He has appeared on 94.3FM’s The David Maderia Show, Bounce Back to Your Brilliance w/Angel Tyree, What’s Weighing You Downw/Dr. Marilyn Gansel on FTNS radio, Nurture and Nutrition on Blog Talk Radio, Low Carb Conversations with Jimmy Moore and Friends, BlogTalk Radio’s Toni Harris Speaks, Internet Radio: Cathie’s Talking, TV -35′s Storm Politics with Tiffany Cloud, WILK’s The Sue Henry Show, Magic 93′s Frankie In The Morning, WBRE’s PA Live, SSPTV’s News 13, Public Television WVIA’s State of Pennsylvania and Call the Doctor; Entercom’s Outlook on Northeast PA with Shadoe Steele, Citadel Broadcasting’s Sunday Magazine with Brian Hughes, Lisa Davis’ Your Health Radio; Hank Garner’s Podcast, Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill Podcast; and the one and only Jimmy Moore’s Livin’ La Vida Low Carb podcast.
Dr. Joe Leonardi also will come and speak to your group; to learn more about his motivational speaking fees and availability contact him at docjoeleonardi@betterlifeseminars.com and check out his website www.betterlifeseminars.com.
———————————————————————————————————————
************The information in the videos is for information purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or disorder. The posting that I write do not apply to those with an underlying medical or hormonal condition. I advise anyone embarking on a weight loss and fitness plan to have a thorough medical evaluation. You want to be sure that you are physically able to exercise and you don’t have any underlying medical conditions.************

Related articles

• Fat man demands civil rights (fellowshipofminds.wordpress.com)
• White Castle and the Fatman (atlmalcontent.wordpress.com)
• Obesity Victimization Does Not Defeat Obesity (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)
• Dr. Melina Jampolis Is Wrong On Paleo Eating! (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)

To Beat Obesity and Achieve Health Revisit “The Strenuous Life”

Image via Wikipedia

“I wish to preach, not the doctrine of ignoble ease, but the doctrine of the strenuous life, the life of toil and effort, of labor and strife; to preach that highest form of success which comes, not to the man who desires mere easy peace, but to the man who does not shrink from danger, from hardship, or from bitter toil, and who out of these wins the splendid ultimate triumph.” – Theodore Roosevelt

Image by Jennuine Captures via Flickr

Last week, I was taking care of my girlfriend’s yard when the above quote came to mind. I use a manual, human powered, push mower and non-mechanical hedge clippers.  I edge the lawn using hand held clippers.  I worked for three hours in beautiful sunshine with the only scent in the air being that of  fresh cut grass. There were neither lung chocking emissions, nor noise  of  motors nor engines to spoil the idyllic day.

A neighbor happened by and asked me about my non-mechanically aided endeavorer. I stated it was not only enjoyable, but there was something very fulfilling to accomplish a task utilizing nothing but the strength of my body.  The person said, “But sometimes it is just better for work to be easier.”   I disagreed, however, I seem to be in the minority.

In today’s society we seem to have slipped into a false truth — that if it is easier, it is better. We have remote controls for everything; the television, garage door, fans and even air conditioners all have little devices so we no longer must heft ourselves out of our comfy seats and move. Hell, if you count the clapper, we don’t even have to get off of our rear-ends to operate a light switch.

Go out in public and you will find doors that open automatically, two-story shopping malls with escalators and you need but a wave of the hand to start water flowing from a sink or dispense a paper towel. We don’t even have to flush the toilet.

In society today it seems that we are always looking for the path of least resistance. The path that takes the least amount of work is the path most chosen. Even in the gym, where people are working out to get more fit, one can observe the same pattern. If say a person wants to use 50 pound dumbells for an exercise, but the weight is not there, many will go down to the 45′s instead of up to the 55′s.

Why not, while using proper form and safety precautions, test one’s self and go up in weight a bit?  Why not make it tad harder?

We are bombarded by marketing ploys that are supposed to make being healthy easy. Products will help us lose weight without any effort, they even market exercise machines that will magically produce results with little to no effort. Isn’t the point of exercise to promote effort?

Everywhere you travel foods of convenience dot the landscape.  Sugar filled, carbohydrate loaded junk is marketed and often promoted as health food.  Atkins, Low Carb, Paleolithic and Primal diets are dismissed by “doctors” and “experts” who receive income from the industries that are destroying health.

We have moved away from the “Strenuous Life” President Theodore Roosevelt so extolled.

Cover of The Strenuous Life

Our schools continue to cut out recess and shortened gym classes, yet President Roosevelt used his belief in the strenuous life to overcome childhood ailments. He strongly believed in the adage that a fit mind requires a fit body to house it. He exercised, engaged in sport, he even skinny dipped in the Potomac River during the winter. While even under the best conditions I would never consider swimming in the Susquehanna River as it runs along the Pittston to Wilkes-Barre corridor, I admire Teddy’s attitude and drive when it came to pursuing The Strenuous Life.

Image via Wikipedia

Our current President took more than a year to fill positions on The President’s Council on Physical Fitness, Sport & Nutrition. So, as the First Lady was admirably campaigns to increase awareness of childhood obesity, the President Barack Obama delayed action on the council that was founded to encourage American children to be healthy and active.  Am I missing something?

In his 1899 address before the Hamilton Club, in of all places Chicago, Teddy Roosevelt asked the question, “Who among you would teach your boys that ease is to be the first consideration in their eyes—to be the ultimate goal after which they strive?

It seems that by today’s standard, the answer would be; most. Thanks to the conveniences of modern society life is easier.  However, considering the soaring obesity rates, both adult and childhood, are the results of ease worth the price?

So I ask the question  — Are we teaching our young men and women to strive for ease? If we are — How much damage are we doing?

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Chiropractor, Dr. Joe Leonardi is the author of the life changing book; Fat Then Fit Now;  A life beyond weight loss.

Dr. Joe Leonardi is available to appear on any talk radio, internet podcasting or television outlet. He has appeared on Public Television WVIA’s State of Pennsylvania and Call the Doctor; Entercom’s Outlook on Northeast PA with Shadoe Steele, Citadel Broadcasting’s Sunday Magazine with Brian Hughes, Lisa Davis’ Your Health Radio; Jimmy Moore’s Livin’ La Vida Low Carb podcast; Hank Garner’s Podcast, Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill Podcast.

Dr. Joe Leonardi also will come and speak to your group; to learn more about his motivational speaking fees and availability contact him at fatthenfitnow@me.com

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Related articles

• Would You Try an Eco-Friendly Push Mower? (casasugar.com)
• September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month! Who Knew? (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)
• A Rough Rider Tackles a Rough Sport (nytimes.com)
• How I Effectively Beat Obesity And Improved My Life (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)

Dr. Melina Jampolis Is Wrong On Paleo Eating!

Image via Wikipedia

I would like to begin with the disclaimer that I am NOT an expert on Paleolithic eating. However, I am an expert on how the human body functions.  I am a low carbohydrate proponent and follower — lately I have drifted to more of a Paleo model of eating.  My personal definition is that I eat very little, if any processed, prepackaged foods, very little starchy carbohydrates and simple sugars and no high fructose corn syrup.  I stick to the notion that if it can be found in nature, without (or else as little as possible) human intervention, I eat it.

I deviate from what I understand the Paleo plan to be in the fact that I eat some cheese and I have one, very basic protein shake a day.  Since I eat out quite frequently, grass fed beef, wild caught seafood and free range poultry aren’t always an option.  When I have the freedom to prepare, I consume the previous, but again, with my schedule: which begins by leaving the house at 4:30am and not arriving home until, at the earliest, 7pm — I follow the spirit, if not the letter of the law, of what I understand paleo eating to be.

Image via Wikipedia

On my Facebook profile, my buddy Big Tim, posted a link to a Q and A on CNN’s health page where a reader, Courtney L., had asked a question about the Paleo diet.  The reader’s question was answered by their “expert” Dr. Melina Jampolis.  I have never heard of Dr. Melina before, so I did some, admittedly very brief, research on her before writing this post.

Image by David Berkowitz via Flickr

I discovered among other facts that she is a lackey, I mean contributor, of none other than the other doctor who spouts just as much diet misinformation; Dr. Mehmet Oz.  What’s the old expression?  Birds of a feather?

Let’s take her response to fellow Pennsylvanian Courtney L. from Pittsburgh.  Dr. Melina starts with a false premise; the premise being that Paleo eating is a fad diet.  I agree that fad diets, or any diet which simply has the goal of weight loss is not the way to go.  However, if Dr. Melina actually had any intellectual curiosity, she would discover that those who follow solid, natural eating plans are not fad dieters.  No, we are just the opposite; we have made a commitment to changing our lifestyles. We eat a healthier way not simply to lose weight, but to live a better quality of life.

Dr. Melina includes in her answer many of the positive aspects of the Paleo eating style, which I don’t have much of a problem with; again, I am not a strict follower of the Paleo methodology, so I will defer to experts how accurate her conclusions and information are.

As a low carbohydrate, unprocessed, natural food follower, I have issues with her cons of Paleo and in relation low carb eating.  Her responses are numbered and italicized, my responses are in bold font:

“1. The diet eliminates dairy, an affordable and widely available source of bone-building calcium (and vitamin D when dairy foods are fortified) and protein (yes, calcium can be obtained from greens and other foods, but it is more challenging to consume adequate amounts.)“

Dairy is not essential to get calcium.   It is only affordable because the government keeps the prices artificially suppressed.  The fact is that the pasteurization process destroys much of the healthful ingredients that raw dairy possesses.  The word fortified, much like enriched, is code in the food industry for we put some, not all,  of the good stuff we destroyed in the processing of the product back in.  Since milk is relatively cheap, how high quality do you think the vitamin D that is used to fortify it is? Her “reason” that it is challenging to consume adequate amounts of greens and other foods are nothing more than an excuse.  Additionally, dairy isn’t even essential in the human diet. I challenge you to name another animal that consumes milk after infancy; while you’re at it, name one that drinks another animal’s milk.

“2. The diet eliminates all grains, including whole grains, which are a good source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and heart healthy fiber, and foods such as beans, peanuts and sweet potatoes, all of which have numerous health-promoting qualities.”

Whole grains ARE processed foods. I have never seen a bread bush, a pasta plant or an oatmeal tree. It takes a lot of effort to get these foods from field to plate. Every day there is more and more research being published that disputes the fact that whole grains are healthy.  I really wish we could get over this “whole” grain kick.  It is the deep pockets and lobbying efforts of agribusinesses that have perpetuated the “healthful” grain myth and government’s endorsement.  It is in their financial interests for consumers to believe that these foods are “good” for us.  Having run for Congress, I understand the depth of their influence; and your health and well being aren’t what they are interested in influencing.

For more information I refer you to two web sites I check daily:  Jimmy Moore’s low carb standard setting web site Livin La Vida Low Carband Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill web site.   I have been honored to be a guest on both gentleman’s podcast.

“3. The diet is high in animal protein, which could lead to an excess intake of saturated fat, resulting in elevated cholesterol levels, an increased risk of heart disease and increased risk of certain types of cancer.”

Again, the supposedly scientifically minded Dr. Melina hasn’t done her research. The research is starting to show that it is insulin that is responsible for much of the heart disease and cholesterol cases. In the absence of carbohydrates, there is very little insulin released and there is little evidence of elevation of the risks she stated.  But take the previous sentence away; saturated fats in grass fed beef, wild caught seafood, free range poultry (and their eggs) is relatively low.  But how dare she allow the facts to get in the way of her conclusions.

“4. Finally, the diet can be expensive (grass-fed, organic meats and eggs are more expensive) and inconvenient due to the limitation of food choices, both of which make this diet less practical for the average person long term.”

My favorite and the easiest to debunk argument is one of expense.  This is another b.s. excuse which many of the enemies of good health like to use to justify prepackaged and processed junk.  Are some natural foods more expensive?  Yes they are, however you are not buying these good foods in addition to the crap that the average U.S. citizen consumes, you are purchasing them in place of the trash.  Therefore,  the increased cost is going to be offset by no longer purchasing highly refined, sugar soaked foods.  Add up how much a person will spend on soda, candy, doughnuts and other refined foods in the course of a day and you will learn that it really adds up. Cut out the crap; save money.  Then there is the money spent on healthcare, gas (it cost more to drive around 350 pounds than it does 225) clothes and other obesity related expenses and the cost will be further offset.  Besides, isn’t it worth cutting back somewhere else and spending a little more on nutritious foods to have a better quality of life?

She advises Courtney L. to steer clear of the Paleo lifestyle, however she strangely includes this statement… “we can take away something from our ancestors by eating foods closer to their natural state (less processed), which are more nutrient-dense and digested more slowly by the body.”

Am I missing something?  I thought so until I checked out her web site.  It seems that the Doctor’s site is peppered with processed prepackaged food suggestions and videos.  All she appears to do is replace really bad garbage, with what she claims to be not so bad garbage; when in fact it isn’t any healthier.  Perhaps the most disturbing, at least to me, tidbit of claim I found on the Doctor’s web site was this line, ” There are no gimmicks or empty promises here.”

No gimmicks?  Really!  Look at the top of her site and we find a tab to Dr. Melina Bars.  Yes, the good Dr. Melina has her own line of chemically concocted, fake food to sell you.  Her bars have over twenty chemical ingredients; including soy, which is the topic for another posting, the protein shake that I have each day has FOUR; that is 4 simple, pronounceable  ingredients. So, Dr. Melina Jampolis doesn’t want you to spend money on good natural foods, but wants you to purchase her fake food items.

Her Facebook page has an interesting note ” I just wanted to explain that while I welcome comments & questions on my fan page, I am not interested in arguing with people or allowing comments with which I disagree completely scientifically. I work very hard to provide what I feel is the best information for my fans. If you don’t agree with me, please do not follow me on facebook. “ 

So in other words; She’s right, everyone else is wrong and only the science that supports her conclusions will be accepted.

If you want to recapture your health and wellness I will give you the secrets Dr. Melina doesn’t ant you to know:

-eat foods that are as close to nature as possible

-avoid starchy vegetables

-avoid fruits while losing and then reintroduce them as you reach your goal

-don’t eat prepackaged, chemically concocted fake foods

-exercise every day

-keep a positive mental attitude

-most importantly, spend your money on real, great tasting foods.

——————————————————————————————————

Physical Culturist and Chiropractor, Dr. Joe Leonardi is the author of the life changing book, “Obesity Undone” and a contributor to NaturallySavvy.com. He is available to appear on any talk radio, internet podcast or television outlet. His web site www.ObesityUndone.com is available to help you reach your goals.

He has appeared on 94.3FM’s The David Maderia Show, Bounce Back to Your Brilliance w/Angel Tyree, What’s Weighing You Downw/Dr. Marilyn Gansel on FTNS radio, Nurture and Nutrition on Blog Talk Radio, Low Carb Conversations with Jimmy Moore and Friends, BlogTalk Radio’s Toni Harris Speaks, Internet Radio: Cathie’s Talking, TV -35′s Storm Politics with Tiffany Cloud, WILK’s The Sue Henry Show, Magic 93′s Frankie In The Morning, WBRE’s PA Live, SSPTV’s News 13, Public Television WVIA’s State of Pennsylvania and Call the Doctor; Entercom’s Outlook on Northeast PA with Shadoe Steele, Citadel Broadcasting’s Sunday Magazine with Brian Hughes, Lisa Davis’ Your Health Radio; Hank Garner’s Podcast, Dr. Robert Su’s Carbohydrates Can Kill Podcast; and the one and only Jimmy Moore’s Livin’ La Vida Low Carb podcast.
Dr. Joe Leonardi also will come and speak to your group; to learn more about his motivational speaking fees and availability contact him at docjoeleonardi@betterlifeseminars.com and check out his website www.betterlifeseminars.com.
———————————————————————————————————————
************The information in the videos is for information purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or disorder. The posting that I write do not apply to those with an underlying medical or hormonal condition. I advise anyone embarking on a weight loss and fitness plan to have a thorough medical evaluation. You want to be sure that you are physically able to exercise and you don’t have any underlying medical conditions.************

 

Related articles

• The Paleo Diet: Are Our Ancestors the Key to Weight Loss? (fitsugar.com)
• Thanks To #AHS11, I’ve Shifted My Diet To A Low-Carb Paleo Approach (liberationwellnessblog.com)
• Dr. Melina Jampolis’s Implied Advice: Purchasing Natural, Whole Foods Are Expensive – Buy Dr. Melina Bars Instead (fatthenfitnow.wordpress.com)