August 2006 Issue
Dear Reader,
I just went to see Madonna in concert. It was a magnificent performance. Her health, flexibility and passion are tributes to the power of natural foods and holistic health. During the performance she shared about challenges we face in the world today and closed with the words, "Have you confessed today?" Which made me think, there's something I want to confess to you: I sometimes eat at McDonald's.
Believe it or not, their Asian Salad is delicious. It comes with greens, snow peas, edamame, mandarin oranges, sliced almonds and even Newman's Own Low Fat Sesame dressing, but I recommend you skip the chicken. You might find it odd that I eat fast food. But I am acutely aware that in order to create a healthier future for America and the world, we must work together with anyone and everyone who is making positive changes.
McDonalds is a powerful corporation. They spend more money on advertising than any other company on the planet. With its playground sponsorship, successful kids' clothing line and the ever-popular Ronald McDonald character, the company has a huge impact on our children's diets. When a corporation like this breaks new ground, I want to support them.
Imagine what would happen if many more people started to go to McDonalds for salads. What if they sold more salads than fries? They might respond to our demand for healthy items and add more fresh vegetables to their menu. They could eventually offer organic burgers on whole grain buns. Anything is possible!
I invite you to join me in maintaining an open perspective on how to create a healthier world. With obesity and chronic disease rates on the rise, it's clear that conventional approaches to health and nutrition are not working. People don't need to hear about good foods, bad foods and the latest diet. They need a fresh perspective on how to nourish themselves. That's what Integrative Nutrition is all about. If you'd like to be part of the future of nutrition, come check us out.
Joshua Rosenthal,
MScEd
Founder and Director
