The Idiocy of Social Media

So, this lady on Instagram decides that she needs to post on the difference between Fanta Orange Soda in the US vs the Fanta Orange Soda in the UK. Why? No. Truly why? I hope that someone tells her that Snickers isn’t good for us.

There are differences between American soda and soda bought in Europe or Mexico. It is mostly about local preferences. American sodas are more sugary for the most part.

Who sees Fanta as essential to our nutrition? Anybody? Fanta is a soda, and every nutritionist will tell you that soda is not good for us.

This post was about clicks and not about information. Nowhere in the FDA’s nutritional guidelines will you see soda. Soda is not an essential food group. Anyone who pays attention to what they eat should know that soda is full of sugar. It doesn’t matter if you are talking about Fanta, Shasta, or Coke. They are all loaded with sugar. This isn’t new information.

If you want to eat healty is will take some work. It is not really hard, but you have to understand that fast food and soda are not the answer.

The Macronutrient Mix

These are the nutrients your body needs in large amounts for energy and structural repair.

  • Complex Carbohydrates: Your primary energy source. Focus on whole grains (oats, brown rice, quinoa), legumes, and starchy vegetables. These provide fiber, which aids digestion and stabilizes blood sugar.
  • Lean Proteins: Essential for muscle repair and immune function. Include a mix of plant-based (beans, lentils, tofu) and animal-based (poultry, fish, lean meats, eggs) sources.
  • Healthy Fats: Crucial for brain health and hormone production. Prioritize unsaturated fats from avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, while limiting saturated and trans fats.

2. Micronutrients

Vitamins and minerals don’t provide calories, but they are essential for every chemical reaction in your body.

  • Vegetables & Fruits: Aim for a “rainbow” on your plate. Different colors often indicate different antioxidants and vitamins (e.g., orange for beta-carotene, dark greens for folate and Vitamin K).
  • Hydration: Water is the often-forgotten nutrient. It’s vital for nutrient transport and temperature regulation.

3. Key Principles for Daily Eating

  • Fiber Intake: Crucial for gut health and cardiovascular wellness. Aim for roughly 25–35g per day from whole foods

Here are some links.

https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/fats/fats-in-foods#:~:text=Limit%20saturated%20fats.,contain%20monounsaturated%20and%20polyunsaturated%20fats.

https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/macronutrients-101–what-to-know-about-protein–carbs-and-fats.h00-159774078.html#:~:text=Carbohydrates%2C%20fats%20and%20proteins%20are,group%2C%20they%20are%20called%20macronutrients.

https://www.triahealth.com/post/nourishing-your-body-and-mind-the-power-of-eating-healthy

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ABOUT AUTHOR
Errington C. Thompson, MD

Dr. Thompson is a surgeon, scholar, full-time sports fan and part-time political activist. He is active in a number of community projects and initiatives.

Books

A Letter to America

The Thirteeneth Juror

Where is The Outrage Topics
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