tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post1788119133824563891..comments2024-01-01T07:01:27.625-08:00Comments on Foodtrainers: Mrs Obama: Let's Move to Shake ShackUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-6901926916758430572011-12-14T09:33:10.701-08:002011-12-14T09:33:10.701-08:00I'm not a fan of Michelle Obama, but this arti...I'm not a fan of Michelle Obama, but this article just makes the Daily Caller look petty. Your attempt to point out hypocrisy unfortunately is based on a faulty premise: Being healthy isn't about what you eat at a single meal. Besides, as conservatives point out when forced to deal with a fellow conservative's peccadilloes, if you have high standards, sometimes you won't meet them--better than no standards at all.xlpharmacyhttp://www.xlpharmacys.orgnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-33600145482259216712011-07-19T07:00:52.408-07:002011-07-19T07:00:52.408-07:00Jen, agree with the "executed poorly" th...Jen, agree with the "executed poorly" though I don't think Shake Shack is really that much better. There is no salad or vegetable (other than lettuce you mentioned) on the menu and still "fast food" it may taste better though. Thanks for commenting.Laurenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17713676282787688389noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-47135744735543460692011-07-19T06:53:41.844-07:002011-07-19T06:53:41.844-07:00At first, reading this, I disagreed with you compl...At first, reading this, I disagreed with you completely - after all, as far as fast food goes, shake shack is better than most. The burgers contain more actual veggies than most, some nice fresh lettuce, tomato, and onion, etc. And it's all fresh and a little less processed than at Burger King, etc. But then I got further down and realized that she had a buger, and fries, and a shake, plus a diet coke. She could have eaten (as I usually do on the rare occasions that I go) a single burger, shared the fries, and an iced tea. No need for the shake, and the fries are plenty big enough to share. That would have been a nice small indulgence. Indulgences are a good thing, when they are done in moderation. 1500 calories at a time is not moderation, even for an indulgence, and I would not think that's the example she would want to set. It was a good idea that was executed poorly.Jennoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-74314626471188900252011-07-18T08:45:31.599-07:002011-07-18T08:45:31.599-07:00Mrs. Obama's meal made me think of this grear ...Mrs. Obama's meal made me think of this grear cartoon ... http://bit.ly/e3i0e8Ken Leebowhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11527496935510755613noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-63985314010093274102011-07-17T18:33:56.193-07:002011-07-17T18:33:56.193-07:00Im in between on this one. Part of what I preach ...Im in between on this one. Part of what I preach is moderation and balance. I am a RD and people often say to me 'ohhh my gosh cant believe you ate that you are a dietitian'. I always want to say why cant I have this with out judgement?!? I think michelle obama can do the moderation and balance thing with out calling out every unhealthy food she loves!Allison @ PickyEatingRDhttp://www.pickyeatingrd.comnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-36843794896693383252011-07-17T14:29:28.293-07:002011-07-17T14:29:28.293-07:00Good pont Melissa. Many of us (myself included) vi...Good pont Melissa. Many of us (myself included) viewed Mrs Obamas burgers in light of their lives and how they eat. Some pointed out that being restrictive is bad. We have to look at this through the lens of obese children.Laurenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17713676282787688389noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-62404878499141228192011-07-16T06:01:34.436-07:002011-07-16T06:01:34.436-07:00Wow, what a great debate. I find it interesting th...Wow, what a great debate. I find it interesting that so many people have referenced Eating Disorders. While they are certainly serious and important to consider, they affect a small % of the population compared to obesity, which as we all know affects the majority of this country. I wouldn't think twice about Mrs. Obama eating fast food if she didn't create such a strong platform on promoting healthy eating and reducing obesity, but that is what she has come to stand for. I think the term moderation is a nice idea in theory and I don't doubt that all of us commenting on this blog know what that means, but for most people it just doesn't work. Our obesity crisis makes that clear. We are a country of excess in many ways. My worry is that most people will see Mrs. Obama and say "hey see she promotes health and eats fast food like me so I can continue to eat it." The problem is she is eating it once a year maybe and the rest of the population could be eating it daily or weekly. Maybe Mrs. Obama eating fast food didn't have an impact on anyone, but I tend to think if it did it was unfortunately a negative one.Melissahttp://www.foodtrainers.netnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-76460251292961073852011-07-15T18:55:52.200-07:002011-07-15T18:55:52.200-07:00I agree! Fast food prison. You raise a good point,...I agree! Fast food prison. You raise a good point, aside from politics or ingredients used I don't like the way fast food tastes or makes me feel. Where's the "treat" there?Laurenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17713676282787688389noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-66629447069224789632011-07-15T17:33:49.198-07:002011-07-15T17:33:49.198-07:00I think being a politician or a politician's l...I think being a politician or a politician's life must be pretty rough....shaking hands, kissing babies...eating fast food...all sorts of health hazards. But seriously,my first job was at a Wendy's in high school. Even before I became a dietitian in my 30's I wouldn't have "splurged" on a hamburger, shake and fries...it would have been sushi or maybe some handmade truffles. Splurging is "indulging in a luxury"...burgers, fries and a shake are not a luxury because I know that afterwards I'd feel sluggish, bloated and full...more like a punishment.Leah McGrath, RDN, LDNhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11125835776881163027noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-80849527862147655762011-07-15T14:20:29.830-07:002011-07-15T14:20:29.830-07:00Thanks EA and Rebecca. A few things come to mind. ...Thanks EA and Rebecca. A few things come to mind. First, why all the assumptions this is an occasional treat, would it be different if Ms Obama ate burgers/fries/shakes regularly? Second, I don't know why suggesting a meal over 1550 calories isn't ideal bring up fears of "being too strict", eating disorders and food imprisonment. I grew up in a junk free house (see where it comes from) but didn't even know it. My mom cooked and I was surrounded by delicious food. I think it is how it is framed.Laurenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17713676282787688389noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-80542006420349045272011-07-15T14:15:03.814-07:002011-07-15T14:15:03.814-07:00I haven't eaten fast food in at least 5 years ...I haven't eaten fast food in at least 5 years and I can't imagine doing it ever again. But I can't really judge Mrs. Obama or anyone else that does because if they saw some of the stuff I ate...it might be healthy but my God it's pretty disgusting looking. To each his own in my opinion.<br /><br />Plus, I wonder how much of her visit there was to make her seem like an average person? I bet it was more of a publicity stunt than anything - but then again I am quite jaded when it comes to political moves...<br /><br />In any case, I have never heard of Shake Shack before...am I just ignorant?Ameenahttp://fancythatfancythis.comnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-61381565203271945002011-07-15T14:14:25.323-07:002011-07-15T14:14:25.323-07:00I came over here per Rebecca's recommendation....I came over here per Rebecca's recommendation. I haven't read all the comments, but what a great discussion.<br /><br />My take is that is is So not news that the woman went and ate a burger w/all the fixin's. And the fact that she did, though, could mean that some folks get to keep their jobs. <br /><br />We all need to and should eat healthy foods most of the time, but honestly, if everyone jumped on the raw/organic/vegetarian/vegan train (or any other train outside the SAD), a ton of folks would lose their jobs.<br /><br />The fact that she eats healthy most of the time and indulges in a burger every once in awhile is more realistic for folks who are trying to transition from the SAD to something more healthy. And meanwhile, all those folks working at fast food places and convenience stores get to keep their jobs. <br /><br />Ideally, even in those types of places, management will see fit to start transitioning to healthier food there, too.<br /><br />I'm not saying that <em>I'm</em> going to McDonald's once a day or once a week because I don't want the workers to lose their jobs, but I am saying that as the FLOTUS, it has to be one of her considerations, especially as our economic crisis spins on and on.Jennihttp://www.pastrychefonline.com/blognoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-71955306622521039272011-07-15T13:59:50.736-07:002011-07-15T13:59:50.736-07:00wow interesting discussion and thats your strong p...wow interesting discussion and thats your strong point on here, but I say why not eat fast food occasionally I do and I am obese being too strict is also not the answerchow and chatterhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04225995063075911644noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-23123188591676972011-07-15T13:54:35.489-07:002011-07-15T13:54:35.489-07:00Great topic and I've really enjoyed reading ev...Great topic and I've really enjoyed reading everyone's comments and perspective on your post. I have to say I'm with the "moderates"here. I don't have a problem with the First Lady eating what she did at Shake Shack {never heard of it before} while at the same time being a role model for healthy eating. Your point about the cigarettes threw me for a loop initially, but I don't think eating the occasional fast food can be compared to smoking in terms of it's impact on health. I was speaking w/ a friend last night about her teenage daughter's friends who have eating disorders. She mentioned that for the most part, these girls are the ones who have parents who forbid them from any kind of "junk food" what so ever. As nutrition professionals, I do think we need to find a way to teach our clients how to practice the "M" word {Moderation}. BTW-I really liked Andy's quote about eating "fast food" {smoothies/avocado toast/green juice} everyday. Well said!EA-The Spicy RDhttp://www.eastewart.com/blognoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-23940371669540463372011-07-15T12:22:02.350-07:002011-07-15T12:22:02.350-07:00Carrie- just read your comment. I think you nailed...Carrie- just read your comment. I think you nailed it with "playing in their sandbox" first. This was calculated and not just Ms Obama walking down the street and going to Danny Meyers brand new restaurant. Question and yes, this is tough, do you have to eat the sand/throw sand just to "be friends"?Laurenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17713676282787688389noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-39350638592845513162011-07-15T10:59:02.001-07:002011-07-15T10:59:02.001-07:00Welcome Katherine. Thanks for joining the debate. ...Welcome Katherine. Thanks for joining the debate. I think the variety of responses here show this is of interest and perhaps more than a single person's choice for 1 meal. Just as it is the public's business if the Obamas fly in air force 1 for a personal trip (or to look at their spending) I think we can look at Ms. Obamas eating due to her platform and her call to Americans to make changes. I don't think of this as a 1 time indulgence. I think about the children, like those mentioned above, at NYC pools who are obese and unhealthy. Point well taken that she may not have finished her meal and may have been moderate in portion. <br />I suggested some ways I felt fast food could be moderate as well. To clarify, BVM wasn't my message. This was not a post about criticizing someone's food choices. I have never yelled at a client and if my client came in with this meal on their food journal I would talk to them about how they felt, ways the meal could be slightly more healthy etc. The first lady is making strides and I hope this doesn't tarnish it. This wasn't a personal attack toward readers or Michelle Obama. I find the kernel of interest to be how much do "experts" personal choices matter and why everyone seemed so pleased with her splurge. That's all.Laurenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17713676282787688389noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-86122563335648084272011-07-15T10:36:10.820-07:002011-07-15T10:36:10.820-07:00I'm totally shocked at your response to Michel...I'm totally shocked at your response to Michelle's lunch. <br /><br />Frankly- how is this anyones business? I understand holding people accountable to "practice what they preach" but the reality is that NOBODY is perfect. Not you. Not me. NOBODY. <br />What is the point of criticizing someone for having a one time indulgence? Someone who spends hours and hours of her time promoting good? If we hold everyone to "perfect" standards we will soon be left with none willing to lead. <br />We have NO IDEA how much of that meal she ate. What if she only had half the burger, a couple of fries and a some of the shake? Would that not have been exactly what you are promoting with BVM? I should hope so. <br />As someone who struggles with weight it is not encouraging to see so many nutritionists being critical. Why try if I can never measure up? <br />I think you should think about the overall message you are sending when you call someone out for making one tiny "miss-step". How is this any different than that personal trainer on Bravo yelling at her client for eating a couple of Oreo's? It doesn't solve the overall problem and it really isn't the point. <br />The POINT is that we have a First Lady who is making great strides in public health and truly is an example of health and good character.Katherine Stanfillnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-70102583819106049222011-07-15T10:13:50.697-07:002011-07-15T10:13:50.697-07:00If you were to speak to MANY American voters in th...If you were to speak to MANY American voters in the language of "Quinoa, arugula with balsamic and lemon juice" I am sure the response would sound much like a field of crickets... because they have never been exposed to this before, EVER.<br /><br />If you were used to taking the bus to get most of your groceries at the local 7/11 because it is the only store within miles where you can find food for your family, then Michelle Obama trying to "speak your language" by eating a burger, but introducing you to what the rich white folk get to eat "grass fed" might feel a bit like a slap in the face--but she's gotta start somewhere, right?<br /><br />She is in a super tough place here--how to you speak to an entire nation about nutrition when only 10% - 20% of this nation can really afford to eat the way you and your blog readers (including myself) strive to eat? <br /><br /> This First Lady has GOT to get down and dirty with the voters, and how do you do it? Well you roll up your damn sleeves, suck down a milk shake, shove a burger in your face, throw a few fries in there and wash it all down with a good old fashioned DC! Get everyone on this bandwagon by playing in their sandbox and hopefully a message of what you should be eating (but we have withheld from you) won't sound like such a different language.<br /><br />Lauren, this was a GREAT post, got me thinking! (Not a fan of the Shake Shack at all! Their burgers are so boring)Carrienoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-5442774161567583892011-07-15T09:09:22.412-07:002011-07-15T09:09:22.412-07:00I can definitely see both sides of the topic. Is ...I can definitely see both sides of the topic. Is it ok that she had fast food..I think so. But did she need to go crazy and order all of that...maybe not. If she is truly promoting health and moderation, perhaps she should have ordered something a bit on the healthier side..or maybe a small fry, no shake, etc. <br />Great pos! Gets ya thinkng.Kristen @ Swanky Dietitianhttp://swankydietitian.comnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-26275111665540135132011-07-15T08:13:08.748-07:002011-07-15T08:13:08.748-07:00Aaron I do see what you're saying and believe ...Aaron I do see what you're saying and believe their definitely are many paths to healthy eating. I don't see Ms Obamas meal as a solely personal manner. Look at all of us talking about it. The gesture will encourage emulation. I also don't think BVM teaches people how to eat.Laurenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17713676282787688389noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-70124424882143315842011-07-15T08:01:10.128-07:002011-07-15T08:01:10.128-07:00Lauren, thanks for posting this today. I think th...Lauren, thanks for posting this today. I think that you made some great points but as you know already, I don't agree with you. It was many of my tweets (and BVM) that you referenced in your post so I felt compelled to comment.<br /><br />You are right that there is no tangible definition of moderation but that is why that approach is so great. Food is personal and there is not a one-size fits all approach. Speaking as someone who has struggled with their weight for most of their adult life, moderation is something that keeps me focused and from going to far in one direction.<br /><br />What works for Mrs. Obama, you and me might be completely different but it works. Yes she is in the spotlight and carries an unbelievable amount of public influence, but if it works for her, who are we to judge. <br /><br />Thanks for allowing me to comment and for the continued great discussion!Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06816447605685952845noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-63588032490467065632011-07-15T07:48:36.681-07:002011-07-15T07:48:36.681-07:00Sorry Lauren doing too many things at once - last ...Sorry Lauren doing too many things at once - last sentence of my post were two separate thoughts! I think you get it though! :)Keri Glassmanhttp://www.nutritiouslife.comnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-66381418244194258182011-07-15T07:46:29.548-07:002011-07-15T07:46:29.548-07:00I think Lauren said it best with her comment "...I think Lauren said it best with her comment "I can only imagine how many burgers shake shack sold after Ms. Obama's visit." That's the point. It's not that a burger or an indulgence of any kind is the end of the world if you are a health advocate. I indulged in fries last night actually... It's the fact that Ms. Obama's indulgence (aside from the fact that it was more of an overindulgence) is in a position where a burger is not just a burger. It's a statement.Keri Glassmanhttp://www.nutritiouslife.comnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-511528661259188712011-07-15T07:24:18.780-07:002011-07-15T07:24:18.780-07:00This is a great topic Lauren. I love how Andy Bel...This is a great topic Lauren. I love how Andy Bellatti put it:<br />“frankly, I’m much more concerned with the policies Michelle Obama supports than what she puts in her mouth....”<br />And this issues has me torn as well. <br />On one hand I could care less about what she is eating and she can eat how ever she wants too.<br /><br />On the other hand she is a public role model for healthful eating and should be considerate of that position that she chose for herself. We are dealing with a obesity and type 2 diabetes epidemic so teaching people how to eat well is more important than ever!! You can go out to eat and still make healthful choices. Like a burger, with a side salad and glass of water. <br />I don't think that teaching how to make healthful choices while eating out is going to spark an ED in anyone.Lisa @ Healthful Sensehttp://www.healthfulsense.com/noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7739675715154690483.post-17917773826694066942011-07-15T07:12:29.621-07:002011-07-15T07:12:29.621-07:00I guess I just don't think it's so dangero...I guess I just don't think it's so dangerous if Mrs Obama had come out with an anti fast food message. Mrs Obama doesn't need to publicly have fast food to show people it's ok. If that were the case, she could show them in a better manner. I am not against indulgences but obese children aren't the same as ED women. I don't think Americans are any where near never treating themselves. If Michael Pollan or Dr Weil or Kathy Freston were at Shake shack would it be different? Mrs Obama wears a dress, it sells out and people flock to the designer in droves. She goes to shake shack and let's see...The woman is entitled to a burger or fries (or both) but the millions of burgers sold that she "sold" is what I'm worried about.Laurenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17713676282787688389noreply@blogger.com