The documentary “Fed Up” hit theaters May 9. Narrated by Katie Couric, the film attempts to shed light on the causes of America’s obesity epidemic. The main culprit? According to the producers of Fed Up, much of the blame can be placed on the high amount of sugar found in today’s processed foods.
In addition, the film attempts to take the blame of obesity off of the individual. Yes, people choose to eat fatty, sugary and high-calorie foods. However, the film’s directors argue that large food companies such as Kraft and Coca Cola, or “Big Food,” use deceptive marketing practices to make consumers think the foods they’re eating are healthy. As a result, the film argues it’s not completely an individual’s fault they’re obese.
I’d have to agree. What stuck out to me about the film was the confusion obese families exhibited over what foods were healthy and which were not. The film showcased families who thought that Nutrigrain bars, Wheat Thins and low-fat chips were healthy options for adults and children to consume. To them, if a box read “low fat,” “reduced fat,” “organic” or “no GMOs,” it was a healthy option. No questions asked.
As fitness professionals, we should understand that just because a box says, “low fat” that doesn’t mean it’s healthy. But what about the rest of the American public?
To me, the film showcased a systemic problem of confusion among Americans over what foods are healthy and which are not. And this problem touches a lot, if not most, of the members of health clubs. After all, how many of your members continue to struggle to lose weight, no matter how much they exercise? We’ve said it time and time again here at Club Solutions — exercise is only a portion of the solution. In order to see results, diet is just as, or even more, important to success.
As a result, I urge health clubs to continue to search for ways to educate members on proper nutrition. Hire a nutritionist or registered dietitian, host culinary cooking classes, or offer seminars on healthy eating from health professionals in your area. And stress the importance of eating whole, un-processed foods. With the obesity epidemic on the rise, health clubs should make a positive impact where they can.
For more information on Fed Up, or to look for viewings in your area, visit http://fedupmovie.com/.
Rachel Zabonick is the assistant editor for Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@clubsolutionsmagazine.com. Reach out to her about exciting events or programs your club has implemented, or to share the amazing accomplishments of a member.
