Extremes

There has been a lot of media attention surrounding feeding tube diets this week and I'd like to address this weight loss diet, which has been mentioned by many sources, including the New York Times (http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/15/fashion/weddings/Losing-Weight-in-Time-for-the-Wedding.html?pagewanted=all). 

The American Society of Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition represents thousands of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dietitians and other health care professionals working in clinical nutrition and does not support the use of feeding tubes for dieting. The focus on feeding tubes for drastic, short-term weight loss distracts from appropriate medical uses of feeding tubes and the impact on patient outcomes in those with cancer, stroke, trauma, and neurologic and gastrointestinal dysfunction (who would rather eat if they could!).  Additionally, the absence of carbohydrates in the K-E diet does not provide balanced nutrition, nor does this diet promote long-term or sustained weight loss. 

Bottom line: Feeding tubes are not an appropriate tool for weight loss.  Speak with a Registered Dietitian for tips on strategies for gradual and sustainable weight loss. Check out Dietitians of Canada, Eat Right Ontario, and Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide for additional resources. 

Calorie Burning

With the gloom out there today I found myself daydreaming of sunshine and outdoor fun.  I recently read an article comparing some popular snacks to the equivalent amount of exercise a 150-pound (68kg) person would have to do to burn off these goodies and thought I’d share.             

Item	Calories	Equivalent Outdoor Activity & Time
New York Fries- Regular (200g)	580	Doubles Tennis- 1 hour 55 min
Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte – Venti (20oz.)	410	Jogging- 50 min
Starbucks Banana Loaf (115g)	430	Swimming Laps- 1 hour 5 min
Tim Hortons Apple Fritter (95g)	300	Brisk Walking- 1 hour

Speaking of walking, a recent study has shown that walkers consume less chocolate on average vs. non-walkers, and a 15-minute brisk walk can actually curb chocolate cravings. 

Keep in mind it’s recommended that we participate in at least 2 ½ hours of moderate to vigorous activity each week (regardless of intake!). 

Sources:

Appetite 58:387, 2012

Arizona State University Healthy Lifestyles Research Center (http://sites.google.com/site/compendiumofphysicalactivities/home)

Health Canada 2011.  Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide.  HC Pub.: 4651 

Indulgence

So remember when I told you the scrumptious, delicious, not-a-care-for-calorie side would eventually emerge?! This is definitely that time! My sister (who just happens to be the sister who is a dietitian) spoiled me with a surprise delivery. 

It's a massive fortune cookie that is topped off with chunks of one of my favourite chocolate bars.  Now, I could tell you that it's actually dark chocolate on top of whole grains, but that would be beyond stretching it!  Needless to say, I was prepared to indulge (hair tied back and all) and it was delicious!  My mouth is watering all over again!