I. Introduction: A. In today’s society, it is easy to grab a hamburger from a fast food restaurant or throw a TV dinner into the microwave because there is simply not enough time, but have you ever wondered about the real consequences of these actions? B. Thesis Statement: Although changing your diet is very difficult, it is important to maintaining your health. C. After many attempts at a healthy lifestyle, I have finally changed the way I look at food. D. Identify the harmful effects of the western diet. II. Body: A. Main Point #1: One of the things I have learned on my way to a better, healthier, lifestyle is that many people have a misconception of what is healthy. 1. According to Michael Pollan, the author of many health and nutrition …show more content…
The culprit seems to point directly to the industrialized food market set in the west. 2. Many Americans do not understand exactly how toxic their food is. a. GMO (genetically modified organism) products have been banned in all countries in the European Union because of the health risks associated with them. 70-80% of the foods we eat at home contain ingredients from GMO products in North America. b. Jeffery Smith, the author of “GMO Myths and Truths” and who is also credited with improving government policies and influencing consumer-buying habits stated “Numerous health problems increased after GMOs were introduced in 1996. The percentage of Americans with three or more chronic illnesses jumped from 7% to 13% in just 9 years; food allergies skyrocketed, and disorders such as autism, reproductive disorders, digestive problems, and others are on the rise.” (Smith, 2011) B. Main Point #2: Although we may have unintentionally dug ourselves a grave by eating and allowing food to be produced this way, we can easily start to reverse this process. 1. We need to eat organically and reduce the number of harmful chemicals in our system. a. If we choose organics, then we promote the companies that produce food in a responsible and sustainable