Super Size Me

While the movie “Super Size Me,” has had an impression on people across the country, I would submit that it is disturbing that we needed a documentary to remind us that the food we are eating is actually killing us. It really doesn’t take much of an IQ to realize that fried and processed foods may taste better, but no one actually feels good after eating them. I found the movie to be an arduous account of the obvious. It was interesting, at first, to see the down hill spiral of health, the steady incline of weight and cholesterol, and the general malaise of the main character directly related to his food consumption. However, it soon became frustrating as the point continued to be made. I appreciated the added commentaries on junk food in America and was deeply disturbed by the lack of consideration being given to students when presenting their lunch choices. The interviews done with food professionals and advertisers were really enlightening. I never really stopped to consider the fact that kids really are bombarded from all sides regarding the types of food they eat. They are not just bombarded, but they are purposeful targets. That is disheartening when admittedly those putting forth these advertisements say they are part of the “obesity” problem in America. How is it that we are part of a society that actually and literally puts the value of a dollar ahead of the preservation of the health of our citizens and our young people? A documentary should be done on the possible outcomes of a society so money hungry that they forget to preserve even themselves. Forget global warming and other debatable topics, and tackle the big issue of “We are Killing Ourselves…one Processed Food Item at a Time.”
My family, unfortunately, eats out quite a bit. The excuses are long, but we are busy is the main one. Driving through someplace and eating on the way is a “kill two birds with one stone,” type of attitude for us. I pride myself though on staying away from hamburger places and driving through the much healthier alternative (read with strong sarcasm) Del Taco or The Hat. This film has definitely made me more concerned about what I am doing to my little girls. (Cue triumphant music here) It’s probably too late for me, the damage is done, but my kids still have a fighting chance at a healthy life style and I have to be the person who exemplifies this healthier life style. (Sigh) The reality is, I will do my best to be better prepared for meals on the run…but sometimes (hanging my head in defeat) it’s the only alternative to not eating at all. I want to do better and I think a realistic goal would be to only allow fast food one day a week as opposed to our normal 20 times.