The Impact of Failing Economy on the Health of our Nation and Pets

As talk of falling housing prices, rising consumer debt and declining retail sales bring up worries about the nation's economic health, more Americans feel additional stress and anxiety about their financial future. Because of these factors, Americans are seeking comfort foods, such as high sugar, high carbohydrate and high sodium foods. In addition, many people are relying on fast food restaurants and less nutritious food choices to save money. The end result is an increase in obesity, depression, heart, liver and kidney disease.

Also, our four legged friends are being affected in such a negative way, because people tend to purchase less expensive foods for their pets and their overall health declines as well.

But, like most of our everyday stress, this extra tension can be managed. Psychologists first recommend taking pause and not panicking. While there are some unknown effects in every economic downturn, our nation has experienced recessions before. There are also healthy strategies available for maintaining a healthy lifestyle during tough economic times, along with ways of eating healthy at affordable prices.

Here are some tips to help make the necessary changes:

Pause but don't panic and get active. There are many negative stories in newspapers and on television about the state of the economy. Pay attention to what's happening around you, but refrain from getting caught up in doom-and-gloom hype, which can lead to high levels of anxiety and poor food choices. Avoid the tendency to overeat and seek fun activities to stimulate the secretion of feel good hormones. Remain calm and stay focused.

Identify your financial stressors and establish a sensible food budget. Take stock of your particular financial situation and what causes you stress. Write down specific ways you and your family can reduce expenses or manage your finances more efficiently. Start shopping at farmer markets, local super markets that carry organic foods and buy enough food for only 3 days. The common problem is people think shopping at Costcos and other high volume stores is going to save them money, but in fact it is contrary. The reason is people buy too much food, which ends up turning rotten and is never eaten. In addition, if you compare prices, you will see there is no big savings and you will be able to have fresh foods that won't be wasted.

Read labels.

Whether you are shopping for your family or pet, make sure to purchase high quality foods. You must always read the labels, just because there are claims the foods and beverages are vitamin fortified or have an appealing label, it doesn't mean it's good for you!

Michael Torchia
Health and Wellness Expert
800.933.8633
michael@operationfitness.com
www.operationfitness.com

www.holistichealthfoundation.com

www.healthypetnation.com

"The test of the morality of a society is what it does for its children." Dietrich Bonhoeffer

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