February 8, 2010

I often have random thoughts that I think might be interesting if shared, but I have not had a forum in which to share thoughts. Now I do have a forum. Facebook was not it, and now I will see if blogger is it. For some time, I have had an interest in writing again. Let's see where this goes.

First thought: quote from HealthDay via Yahoo: "Four-year-olds who regularly ate dinner with the family, got enough sleep and watched less than two hours of TV a day were 40 percent less likely to be obese," http://health.yahoo.com/news/healthday/3homehabitshelpyoungstersstayslim.html

I propose a study to determine the effect on fifty-four-year-olds. I hypothesize that these habits may have a similar result despite the age difference. I foresee a number of confounding effects. 1. In my case this habit cannot prevent obesity because, at best, it can only reduce obesity. The result can be considered successful if the habits prove to halt the increase in obesity--if not actually reduce obesity. A reduction can be considered a monumental success. 2. In my case again (I am the only study participant I have) there are a number of habit changes in play and I believe it will be all but impossible to separately validate the contribution of each individual change. 2a: I follow the Weight Watchers diet using a point system based on quantity of calories, fat and dietary fiber. This diet further emphasises nutrition requirements and healthy choices. 2b: I work out with a trainer weekly to improve strength of core body muscles. 3. My attitude toward changing habits will contribute to the accomplishment of the habit change. I find that I have a positive outlook on dietary changes. I embrace the concept of better food--it even tastes better. My outlook on physical exercise is dark. It is safe to say I hate it. I look forward to the days when I feel physical improvements in my range of motion and endurance. I have never experienced endorphins when exercising and I do not understand the concept of pleasure resulting from physical exertion.