Moderation, what does it really mean?

Moderation is a concept which is not only too vague, but just plain confusing to the vast majority of people of all ages trying so hard to become healthy. How much is considered "moderate" when consuming those foods and beverages with little or no nutritional value? The fact is that a healthy food plan is NOT about moderation at all when it comes to unhealthy food and beverage choices. The problem is that so many Americans believe they are "practicing moderation" by ordering "smaller servings" of junk food yet still consuming these types of foods on an almost daily basis while still not consuming the proper amounts of lean protein, whole grains, and a variety of fruits and vegetables required daily for optimum health. An individual who usually orders a meal such as a large bacon cheeseburger, large French fries, a large ice-cream and a large soda often believes that the same meal ordered in smaller sizes is practicing moderation. Clearly, it is not. 


Moderation is really about re-categorizing those unhealthy foods and beverages into what I call "certain occasion" foods and beverages. I refer to these times as CEO - Certain Extraordinary Occasions, 4 to 6 times per month or 1 to 2 times per week. These include business dinners, social functions or dining out with friends and the available menu is not "perfectly balanced" or healthy. This is okay as long as it occurs no more than 8 times in a calendar month. Many health advocates often refer to these meals as "special" occasions, however I do not. It is only "special" to be with the people you enjoy, not the unhealthy foods and beverages. There is nothing more "special" than waking up to a beautiful sunrise and a healthy balanced breakfast including a variety of delicious fruits and berries served with healthy carbohydrates including fiber rich foods and lean protein. There is nothing "special" about poor food choices which the majority of Americans are falling victim to over and over again and in excessive quantities. These have a nasty habit of turning into coronary artery disease on a platter. Then add in the excessive consumption of alcohol and soon the quality of life we want so badly becomes the dream we are not only unable to realize, but also the nightmare which all too often ultimately plays out in a Cardiac Care Unit. Don't let this happen to you. Follow my lead and be victorious against all preventable and chronic conditions and diseases. You can do it and enjoy every day of what is certain to become a longer, healthier and happier life!