Fighting A Losing Battle?

Filed in archive Challenges on April 13, 2006

It's no secret that an unhealthy diet has long been linked to the development of Type 2 diabetes in adults, and now, in ever increasing numbers, in children.

It's also no secret that America has some of the unhealthiest diet options in the world: huge portions, fast food restaurants offering a convenient meal after a tiring day, a diet industry full of false promises and broken wills.

Now, this study suggests that the battle against an unhealthy lifestyle has grown even more difficult, with the chips stacked against us. Apparently, not only does America (with more countries following the lead) have more unhealthy dining options than anywhere; but those restaurants--especially fast food types--use more fat than other countries do in the very same restaurants.

Order french fries or hot wings at a McDonald's or a KFC in the United States and you're more likely to get a super-sized helping of artery-clogging trans fats than you would be at their restaurants in some other countries.

McDonald's Corp., which promised in September 2002 to cut trans fat in half, and KFC parent Yum! Brands Inc. said the explanation is local taste preferences. But nutrition experts and consumer activists said it is about money: Frying oil high in trans fats costs less.

It's sometimes exhausting to try and maintain a healthy lifestyle, especially with so many corporations more concerned about money than welfare.

What tactics do you employ to stay healthy? Do you ever feel like you're fighting a losing battle?

(Photo: CBS News)