http://content.nejm.org/cgi/content/short/351/26/2683
This seems to be a recurring topic on tips, whether there is an obesity "epidemic", what are the sequela of obesity, and so forth. The Hu article from New England Journal of Medicine indicates separate risk elevations for obesity and lack of exercise. Relative to those lean (BMI <25) and exercise (3.5 hr/week), relative risk of death in their large sample of women was 1.55 for lean but inactive (< 1 hr/week), 1.91 for active but obese (BMI > 30), and 2.42 for inactive and obese. Results for those between lean and obese (25 < BMI < 30) and between inactive and exercise (1 to 3.5 hrs week) were intermediate. Two strong main effects, interaction only marginal (to use a popular statistical term!). I have agreed with some that there are a lot of irrational reactions to obesity/exercise data. Americans, in particular, seem to be on an endless crusade to find a magic food they can eat till they bust and still live forever. The French have it correct, I think. The key ingredients in the French paradox may be cultural and psychological. Food menu, preparation, and consumption are social event. Eating left to the individual is not good. But that's a topic for another day! ============================================ John W. Kulig Professor of Psychology Plymouth State College Plymouth NH 03264 ============================================ "Nothing will benefit human health and increase chances for survival of life on Earth as much as the evolution to a vegetarian diet" - Albert Einstein --- You are currently subscribed to tips as: [email protected] To unsubscribe send a blank email to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
