Category Archives: weight

What Happened to the Neighborhood Grocer?

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Growing up, there were a number of small grocery stores spread out across the town.  They were located within 1 to 2 miles of most residents which made access relatively easy for most.  They all provided dairy, produce, meats, and deli.  They had cereal, condiments, snacks, and cleaning products.  They provided the basics and were visited by loyal customers.  Then along came the boom of the large supermarkets which put the small stores out of business, and made access for some people a hardship.  There are now more convenience stores or fast food establishments closer to some people than a grocery store.  This has contributed to the rise of unhealthy eating, and the increase of problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and cholesterol.

There was a time when Grand Union, A&P, Finast, Waldbaum’s, and a number of other small stores dotted the neighborhoods.  If need be, one could walk or take a short ride on mass transit to purchase a few items.  This is no longer the case.  The large stores are on main roads in many towns making it difficult for people who do not own a vehicle to reach.   It is almost impossible to make large purchases as it is too hard to carry on a bus.  This wasn’t as much of a problem when stores were within a reasonable distance from one’s home. 

So what happens?  It is easier to pick up that doughnut on the corner.  It is easier to go to the fast food establishment or buy processed items that can sit on the shelf without going bad.  How is this supposed to help people make good decisions when it comes to diet?  Doesn’t it lead to more health related issues and more expense when it comes to providing health care?

There has been some effort in small cities and towns to set up farmer’s markets which bring fresh produce and other items to the people.  This has been successful for both the consumer and the farmers.  It is one thing to constantly tell people that they have improve their diet and watch what they eat.  It is equally if not more important to make access to those foods available.  It has to be provided and it has to be easily accessible.  This should be considered by the community at large when the concern for the health of people is discussed.  It should be realized that all people, regardless of income, location, and means of transportation have the right to access quality food and a healthier lifestyle.

Teen Girls Eventually Become Women

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Article first published as Teen Girls Eventually Become Women on Technorati.

Pick up any magazine dealing with popular culture and no doubt there will be a story judging the weight of a young female celebrity.  She is either starving herself, or has gained a few pounds which now classifies her as fat.  While experts go on talk shows and profess that women need to accept and love themselves, the media increases the pressure to be perfect.  If you look back at history, this is somewhat of a recent phenomenon.  Stars of the past did not have to be a size 2 to make it in their industry.  Most resembled the true shape of a woman particularly as they aged.  You can’t take these girls, put them on television or the silver screen when they are under the age of 18, and then expect them to look the same forever. 

Turn on the Disney Channel or Teen Nick and you will see a number of shows starring a very attractive teenage girl.  They are tall, thin, and are the type that can wear anything and still look good.  The cast members that are heavier, wear glasses, and don’t have long flowing tresses are often the “characters” on the show.  They are goofy, funny, clumsy, or nerdy.  The beautiful teen girl is the main star, and she is a media darling.   Quite honestly, I can’t tell one from the other.  The same is true of the bevy of young movie starlets. 

Flash forward about 5 years when these girls reach the age of 18 to 20 years old.  They have changed.  They are grown up and don’t have that lanky size 2 body anymore.  She now becomes a victim of an attack by the same system that built her up.  Suddenly she is not to admired for her talent, but is only noticed for what it might say on the scale.  Pictures are taken of them eating or drinking.  The paparazzi waits to snap a picture of them in a bathing suit.  The sad part  is that they are still a far cry from being overweight.  They have become women, and their bodies reflect the change.

Would Marilyn Monroe be a star today?  How about Sophia Loren or Elizabeth Taylor?  Would their womanly figures have kept them off the screen?   Would Christie Brinkley have become one of the most famous supermodels of all time, or would her athletic body kept her off those covers?  Would we have ever heard the magnificent voices of Etta James, Ella Fitzgerald, Joan Sutherland, Kate Smith, or Aretha Franklin?   When did thin become a requirement for talent, and why does it seem to apply only to women? 

Kelly Clarkson, Demi Lovato, and Gabourey Sidibe are stars that come to mind stating they are not going to obsess about their weight.  They continue to work, and provide an example to other young women that you are more than your dress size.  That society should not determine your value, and that everyone, regardless of their shape or size, has much to contribute to this world.  This is a lesson we must teach our girls.  It the responsibility of all women to lead the way.