My Controversy

With the widespread obesity crisis, "fit" is becoming the new "skinny." "Clean eating" and gym dedication have become a common lifestyle for many; even the government is promoting  healthy ideals. In the post below, I will be discussing the controversial changing of dietary recommendations from the government .

Snapshot via The Atlantic. Nestle, Marion. Goodbye Food Pyramid. May 31, 2011. Public Domain Dedication.  

The Atlantic explains the USDA's campaign to change the iconic "Food Pyramid." This is controversial in a couple of ways. Firstly, the USDA believes the Food Pyramid promotes consumers to eat more grains and carbohydrates, thus causes the obesity epidemic. However, these recommended servings lead to another controversy altogether. Being an American, we live in a capitalist society; therefore, who is to say and recommend how many slices of bread we eat? America was founded on personal liberty and governmental control intrudes on such a liberty.

This article stood out to me for a few reasons. Mainly because I am a firm believer of health and fitness. In addition, obesity is a major problem in our country and I like that there is information available to inform citizens. More importantly though, I find it interesting that the government decides what a "healthy plate" should look like. The lines of what the government can control are quickly becoming indiscernible. I appreciate the concern for our citizens; however, it's hard to accept the advice because it isn't the job of government to recommend how a person should maintain their health.