Is the Recession Expanding Your Waistline?

By on March 10th, 2009

With worsening Economic data that seems to be on the page of every news site or TV channel, it can get stressful even when you’re trying not to think about the current Recession. So if you find yourself sitting on the couch reaching for those chips, cookies, or a pint of Ben and Jerry’s, take a second and put those packages aside for a moment.

And as you’re cutting back expenses, what are among the first things to go?  Probably organic fruits and vegetables, those food items that are healthiest but can be pricey.  Even doctors have noticed that their patients have been reaching for cheaper food items such as ramen noodles, boxed pasta, and fast food items.

Caroline Apovian, M.D., director of the Center for Nutrition and Weight Management and director of clinical research for the Obesity Research Center, both at Boston Medical Center, says “My patients used to be able to keep their weight under control by eating lots of fresh produce and lean protein, and by going to a gym regularly,” she explains. “Now they can’t afford these things. As a result, they’re seeing the numbers on the scale creep up, along with their blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol.”

But who is loving this recession?  That would be fast food conglomerate Mcdonald’s who has experienced a rise in profits as most Americans are cutting their budgets.  Their global same-store profits were up 7.1%, and they’re beating investor expectations.

Now, its not easy to buy healthy foods on a budget, but instead of spending all your hard-earned cash at a fast food counter, why not buy produce from a farmers’ market or buy lean proteins that aren’t so expensive including beans, legumes, and eggs.

One thing’s for sure; McDonald’s is Loving this recession.