As Britain reels under the recession, interesting trends in eating habits are emerging … none of which do wonders for our waistlines.
You would think that with money tighter than ever, more and more people would be staying in and eating more frugally. This may be the case with some, but it seems that perception of value still plays a bigger role than we might think.
In fact, all-you-can-eat restaurants are now booming with some reporting four times the business of average pub restaurants!
9000-10000 guests a week, or more, is not uncommon. It seems customers are seduced by the selection and don’t want to miss out. Almost like we are camels and must stock up in the face of an irresistably good deal!
To others, quantity matters more than selection … another example of hybrid camel mentality.
But perhaps the most under-estimated pull is that of informality. People love going as an entire family, but with the option of eating like they do at home … with everyone grazing on what they want, in the quantity they want.
So … selection, informality, value for money and the sheer delirious pleasure of being able to pig out without restriction! And all of these lead to predictable conclusions. Bloated, over-loaded stomachs and the mindless fatigue that follows.
Every available resource goes towards digestion leaving very little energy for anything else. This fans the flames of addiction but people don’t care because they’re stretching their cash resources and having a great time escaping from the reality of their everyday existences.
Of course, they will continue to put on weight. And of course they will continue to add to the stress load they already subject their bodies to.
Excessive, addictive food that costs energy and adds little nutritional benefit!
Add to this the over-the-counter and prescription medications taken to relieve the resultant symptoms of indigestion, constipation, blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, sexual disfunction and depression.
All require metabolism and eventual elimination and all add appreciably to the overall stress load profile of each individual.
Why then do we expect to manage our weight effectively and remain free from disease when we are so quick to indulge without thought to consequence?
Or maybe people just accept that they will get sick and rely on the health care sytem to mitigate the damage? But … when the system runs out of money, surely tears will be shed?
Come on Britain … what example are you setting for your kids?
Fast food, alcohol and all-you-can-eat blow outs are sure-fire shortcuts to a life of dependence and preventable suffering.
Don’t you think it’s time to take stock?
