[Pturner]

Originally Posted by ariel

Eating healty is a wonderful thing. There are many opinions on how to do it and avoiding sugar, white flour seems to have many advocates and the support of science. It's also important to enjoy life and "splurging" every once in a while is probably not a bad thing. Especially if it makes us happy. I believe I recall a few studies on the impact of happiness, contentment, moderation in life being linked to health and longevity. I have two people in my life who are extremely concerned with eating - they don't really eat, they "fuel". Going to a nice restaurant, sitting down with friends for a long, leisurely meal is not something they are able to do. They are both extremely intelligent people, very opinionated, and not too tolerant of others who don't subscribe to their beliefs on matters of nutrition and exercise. Their relationships have suffered as a result. It's important to ensure that a balance occurs in our lives so that we don't miss out on something that could enrich us as well as impact our health and well-being.

Originally Posted by ariel

It is difficult to define moderation; actually, it’s difficult to quantify most things that are outside the realm of mathematics. My use of the word was more in reference to one’s overall approach to living a healthy lifestyle, i.e. it may be unwise to focus too much attention on any single aspect of ones’ life. A more “moderate” approach for me has been to try and bring multiple things into balance – nutrition, exercise, rest, meditation, relaxation, relationships – what I take from them and what I give back, etc. I’m a work in progress, but the ultimate goal is happiness while I’m here and some positive impact that will, perhaps, live beyond me. I’m very blessed, I’m past 60, have no chronic ailments and feel pretty darn good every day – probably in most part due to heredity, some to good luck, and much to lifestyle and choices. I don’t disagree with much of what you say and your message is valuable. But value can be missed if delivery is uncomfortable.

Ariel,
You are one smart cookie. I like you and hope to meet you one day.

Oops, did I say cookie? No offense, VPL.