Since the government so often demonizes Big Pharma, because of high drug costs, which makes treatment sometimes cost prohibitive, especially for seniors, it seems interesting that The White House would “get in bed” with Big Pharma during this Healthcare Reform process. Why cut a deal with Big Pharma lobbyists if Big Pharma supposedly, has been part of the healthcare problem?

This agreement, most agree, is likely to make drugs more expensive. If the purpose of the bill is to save Americans money, what is the logic behind this? A fan of Obama, and Universal Healthcare (ie. government-run healthcare) asks some important questions in this article.

Last week I wrote about the dangers to our health posed by a government-run healthcare system. In that article, I discussed the cancer survival rates in the current U.S. healthcare system vs. nationalized systems in other nations, and worried about the effects a universal healthcare system would have on our medical care.

I received some emails and comments regarding what readers feel are the pros and cons of such a system. In reading these emails from my own readers, as well as listening to discussion by people during the course of my day working in the medical/healthcare industry, one thing seems to stand out. Many people are using the terms “universal healthcare” and “healthcare reform” synonymously. Let me make it clear that the two can be mutually exclusive and one does not have to equate to the other. 

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If you watched the Super Bowl - or even if you didn’t - you have probably heard that tomorrow is the free Denny’s Grand Slam breakfast offer for all Americans. Between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. tomorrow, February 3rd, show up to a Denny’s near you and gorge yourself on 2 pancakes, 2 eggs, and 2 sausage links and 2 slices of bacon…..all for free! 

Awwww…..that’s so nice of them. Especially in this economy, huh? So let’s look at what you’re getting:

has 795 calories, 50 grams of fat (14 of that sat fat), 65 grams carbs and 34 grams protein. If you add coffee and add cream, that’s an extra 115 calories and 4.5 grams of fat. 

Holy crap! What motive would Denny’s have to kill all Americans off all at one time? It would cut down the customer base quite a lot, wouldn’t it?

Okay, I’m not trying to be a party-pooper, (one could argue I’m still cranky over my team’s loss on Sunday), and I’m not even saying don’t partake in the freebie fun….. I just want you to know what you’re getting in exchange for saving a little money. If you decide to go for it, might I suggest compensating by going light with the rest of your day’s calories?

Or, substitute egg beaters for the two eggs, eat just one of the pancakes, and don’t eat the sausage. Or better yet, bring a *f.a.t. sister friend with you, who is willing to forgo her free meal, and split one meal between the two of you.

Or better even still - crack yourself two organic, cage free, eggs at home, (better Omega 3 vs. 6 ratios than typical eggs), make yourself some  sides of blueberries, strawberries and smoked salmon, sprinkle some sugar on the kitchen table and some crumbs on your chair, look at something yellow, and just pretend you’re at Denny’s!

Just an idea.

Super Bowl Sunday is tomorrow, and I’ve noticed that when it comes to the big game day, women seem to be divided into two camps: those who do, and those who don’t. (Watch it, that is). 

I fall into the watcher camp, because not only do I like football, but this year, my hometown team, Arizona, is actually in it! But even if you are a gal who doesn’t like football, there are some great reasons for you to love the Super Bowl, and tune in tomorrow. Here are my top 10 reasons for chicks to dig the Super Bowl:

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Regardless of your political leanings, today is an undeniably exciting day in American history. Whenever the presidency changes hands, it is a moment that commands respect for the ceremonial traditions inherent in the moment; but today, especially, is a reason to take pause because of the historical significance of our country electing its first black President. 

Yesterday was a day for honoring a past leader, Martin Luther King Jr., who stood for change, (and so much more), and in that same spirit of change and inspiration, today is a day for celebrating a new leader who is the embodiment of King’s dream, Barack Obama.

The peaceful manner in which so many Americans gather at the Nation’s Capitol, is awe inspiring. The enthusiasm that has enveloped the country which transcends all partisan beliefs is a beautiful thing! There is something so powerful about the coming together of young, old, rich, poor, famous, not famous, Republican and Democrat, to share in the celebration of an evolving vision for our Nation and the growth of its citizens! I hope the magnitude of this moment is not lost on any of you.

So, in honor of the excitement and change that today represents, choose to be inspired to embrace NEW. A new day. New hope. New love. New excitement. New friends, and a new and better YOU!

With just a few days left before Christmas, I’m sure some of you may be looking to buy some in-home gym equipment to give as a gift to yourself or someone you love. No doubt about it, having fitness equipment right there in your own house will make it easier to fulfill your fitness New Year’s resolutions to get Fit After Thirty! But some of you may be under the impression that owning gym equipment is something only wealthy celebrities can afford. Nothing could be further from the truth.

With retail stores in a desperate position due to the troubled economy, you will undoubtedly be able to find some very good deals on new ellipticals, treadmills, rowing machines, exercise bikes and weight machines. But if, after checking sale prices for new equipment, you still aren’t finding anything within your budget, it’s time to consider one of the best kept secrets since period panties - refurbished gym equipment. 

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In light of Jeremy Piven’s recent hospitalization for mercury poisoning, I thought I’d dish on fish today. The health benefits of fish are widely recognized, but it is important to understand the dangers as well.

What we know about Jeremy’s situation is that he was eating sushi twice a day, which undoubtedly contributed to the excess mercury levels in his system.

According to the FDA and EPA, it is safe for the average adult to consume 12 oz. (2 meals) of low mercury fish, and 6 oz. (1 meal) of high mercury fish per week. If the fish is locally caught by friends or family (non-inspected, non-regulated) then it is even more important to stick to these weekly quantity limits. 

The fish that are most likely to contain high levels of mercury are Shark, Swordfish, King Mackerel, Tilefish, and Albacore tuna. For pregnant women, women trying to conceive, nursing women, and children, it is best to avoid high mercury fish all together. Fish that are low in mercury are salmon, pollock, shrimp, and catfish.

Back in January, in New York, (where Piven has been acting on Broadway) reports exposed a serious problem with tuna sushi found in both stores and restaurants. The reports indicate that even just six pieces would put a person’s levels above what is considered safe. Other reports have surfaced in the last few years about other cities’ mercury levels in tuna. Moral of the story: no matter what city you live in, eat wisely.

For a list of symptoms of mercury poisoning, go to Buzzle.com

For information on detoxifying your body when mercury poisoning in suspected, go here.

For more cartoons like the mercury fish, go to Culture Life News.

Well, in the spirit of trying to keep *f.a.t. readers informed about up and coming trends, I am passing along this very interesting bicycle invention, called the Conference Bike. The part of me that thinks everyone should look for ways to work fitness into their relationships is really thinking this thing is fantastic. You be the judge!

Speaking of trends, the last one we informed you about, Sweaty Bands, is getting some exposure in Self Magazine this month! Way to go, Sweaty Bands! For the magazine article, you’ll have to pick one up at stores. To read more about my love of Self Magazine, click here.

I’m Too Sexy For My Water Bottle

I’m getting ready to start a trend. It’s called water bottle as fashion accessory. I figure we match our purses to our outfits, so why not our beverage bottle to our sports clothes, office attire, and beachwear? I think I’m onto something because water bottles are already so popular a trend in and of themselves that they made #76 on Stuff White People Like. I really think using them as a fashion accessory could be a nice evolution of our love of water bottles. It could be the next true measurement of chic!  Besides, isn’t it time for those boring, clear and blue plastic things to go the way of teased bangs, and ripped collar-sweatshirts? 

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Since I posted my favorite iPod running tunes list a couple weeks ago, I’ve taken a lot of flack from smart- ass real life friends and *f.a.t. friends who apparently think my selections were dorky, and not at all in line with what they like to exercise to. Who knew it would cause such an impassioned outcry! I would like to respond to some of our reader comments.

Yes, I’m a dork, and I’m okay with it; and I will not succumb to any of your peer pressure to get me to delete Forever In Blue Jeans from my play list. Yes, I like other music than what I posted. Yes I listen to more than ten songs on my iPod when I work out. And to the man in Kansas, yes, I have heard of AC/DC, and no, I don’t plan on adding “Shook Me All Night Long” to my running mix. That is exclusively reserved for my pole dancing mix. (Article on pole dancing coming soon; check back).

And also to the man in Kansas, thank you for the compliment on my Kegel article. I’m glad you liked it. Maybe you can have your wife do some Wild Wandas or Rapid Rhondas as you “shake her all night long” while listening to your favorite tune! 

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