ASK VICKI: Q. This column is about choices. We all make them every day.

Q. This column is about choices. We all make them every day. But why do we continue to make choices that have an extremely negative impact on our health?

A. Did you know the United States is the only country that advertises medications on TV? So while you are relaxing and enjoying your TV program, the commercial for the latest anti-depressant flashes on the screen. The once depressed person is now singing, dancing and really enjoying life. Did you also see the little blurb in the corner of the screen that these depressed people are actors? People who are paid to sing and dance and probably have no idea what the drug is that they are so happy about.
But it gets your attention….. big pharmacy propaganda!! Too bad it is not followed by a commercial promoting the benefits of walking, playing basketball, riding your bike, singing…….but wait that is not going to happen because there is nothing to sell except the benefits of physical activity.
When the diabetic medication commercial is followed by the Pillsbury cinnamon roll commercial; is this not the antithesis of good health. Is the message, eat your cinnamon roll and then take your diabetic medication? Lets think about this for a minute. How many sabotaging choices do we make that send our health into a tail spin?
People often say that they can’t afford to eat healthy. “It is too expensive to buy the more nutritional hot dogs, bread, salad dressing, etc.” Some items are indeed more expensive but its a trade off. Plus there are shopping tips that can make it affordable.
What are you spending in pharmaceuticals that just might not be necessary if you were eating healthier? I am definitely not telling anyone to stop taking their medications. I am encouraging you to look at how you are spending your money.
The amount of people who are suffering from gut related issues is staggering. What are people putting into their guts? WE ARE WHAT WE EAT!!!!! This is no joke.
Start reading labels if you don’t already. If you see something with HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP put it back. Be aware of ketchup, salad dressings, mayonnaise, etc. The body has no need for fructose. But we can become addicted to this sweet additive.
Beware of Canola Oil. It is genetically modified. It works well as an industrial oil and has been used in candles, soaps, lubricants, etc. It is also found in many packaged and processed foods.
There is not enough room in this column to educate and inform about this issue. The main point is please take the time to value your health. Don’t be fooled about drugs and food. Read about healthy eating, moving your body and just maybe you won’t need big pharmacy to con you into believing you need them.

Vicki L Mayfield, M.Ed., R.N., LMFT Marriage and Family Therapy Oklahoma City

If you would like to send a question to Vicki, email us at news@okcnursingtimes.com