By Michael Torchia
The Solution To The Shrinking American
New research has shown some unexpected differences between the height of Americans and those of Europeans, indicating that social status and diet are major influences on adult height.
This surprising reappraisal of American and European physiques is the work of researcher John Komlos of Munich University. "Much of the difference is due to the great social inequality that now exists in the United States," Komlos told The Observer last week. "In Europe, there is - in most countries - good health service provision for most members of society and plenty of protein in most people's diets. As a result, children do not suffer illnesses that would blight their growth or suffer problems of malnutrition. For that reason, we have continued to grow and grow."
On the other hand, America has eight million people with no job, 40 million with no health insurance, 35 million living below the poverty line, and a population that exists mainly on junk food. Consequently, the increase in average height that marked its progress as a nation through the 19th and 20th centuries has stopped and has actually reversed - although slightly - in recent years. Many Americans are rich, can eat well and have good stature as a result, but there is a large underclass that is starting to drag the country down the height charts. Much of the difference is due, in fact, to the great social inequality that now exists in the United States.
Our ancient ancestors, those who hunted and gathered were actually tall and lean, owing to the high quality protein and vegetable products they consumed. However, today's diet causes malnutrition even as we Americans get fatter because of poor protein and the fact that the soil our produce is grown in is now devoid of nutrients because of over-farming. Also, fast food is cheap.very cheap in comparison to buying high quality foods, especially organic produce. Very often, it's the only thing America's lower class can afford.
This discovery of the height disparity has been revealed through research that Komlos has assembled over decades. It amounts to proof that the free market economy espoused by Americans doesn't' work in all instances and provides powerful support for those who back European ideas about universal healthcare and the end to government intervention in agri-business.
So what can one do, without getting heavily involved with government affairs? Operationfitness.com offers 5 simple steps Americans can take to help reverse the ill effects from a junk-food diet:
- Develop healthier eating habits, 3 square meals a day with 2 healthy snacks like fruit or almonds.
- Stay more active, you and your kids need to stay away from the computer and TV screen. Exercise stimulates the body's growth, especially at a young age.
- Avoid eating fast food and foods with a high amount of sugar. Low-nutrient snacks should be avoided at all costs!
- Cut back on soda. Have juice and water instead.
- Increase low and non-fat dairy products. Calcium is the building block of strong, healthy bones. Don't skimp on it!
The effects of poor nutrition can be reversed and future generations can benefit from better eating habits and a more active lifestyle. American can catch up to our European counterparts if we stay focused and stay healthy.