Biggest Loser/Wrigley’s Blog Tour Starts Here!
September 12, 2007 by Claire
Filed under Women's Health
Hi everyone! Today I am doing the first stop of a blog tour that Wrigley’s and NBC’s The Biggest Loser have teamed up for. Below is an interview with Wrigley nutritionist Molly Gee, who has had 25 years of experience in nutrition and is a leader of the ADA (American Dietetic Association). She’s been quoted in publications like The New York Times, USA Today, Shape, and Health.
What made you decide to become a nutritionist?
I love food! My family has always been in the food business – including a grocery store and a Chinese restaurant. So when it came time to choose a career, I met a Registered Dietitian who inspired me to look into the science of food and how it relates to health and happiness.
Obesity is an epidemic in the US today. What do you think is the main contributing factor?
It’s really a math problem of too many food calories in and too few energy calories burned. Americans put on an average of about 2 pounds each year as a result.
Do you recommend a grain-based diet for diabetics, or one that is heavier in fruits, vegetables, dairy and lean meats?
People with diabetes should follow a diet that offers variety, balance and moderation. This is really no different than the diet you and I would follow. MyPyramid can be an easy road map for a healthy diet. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy and protein rich meats and/or beans should be enjoyed every day. Design your own plan by going to: MyPyramid.gov – United States Department of Agriculture – Home
What diet is best for slow, maintainable weight loss?
There are no “magic” diets. Following your “own” reduced calorie diet is always the best. First, I would find out what a person is doing about his/her diet and exercise. Next, they would decide on simple changes they would be willing make. For example, salad dressings or gravies on the side could shave off as much as 300 calories each day or substitute chewing gum at 5-10 calories a piece instead of other high calorie snacks. Increasing physical activity is equally important and could be as simple as walking your dog an extra 2000 steps or one mile.
What’s your number one tip for staying motivated with a diet and exercise regimen?
Old habits are hard to break and support and accountability really helps.
One way readers can motivate themselves is to sign up for Wrigley’s Walk and Chew gum challenge since it gives them a goal to work towards and helps them track and see tangible results . Weight loss is a journey and not a destination.
Thanks, Molly!
OK, here’s the fun part – Wrigley and NBC’s The Biggest Loser are giving away 10 Walk and Chew Gum sets. These include a pedometer, a water bottle, gum, and a bonus Biggest Loser DVD. The first 10 commenters will receive one (I’ll email you instructions on how to receive yours), so hurry and get a comment in! Good luck!
Claire
(You can visit the Gum is Good website here)
First! (Albeit late!)
Great post, Claire – and I actually remembered that Bob mentioned chewing Extra sugar free gum last night instead of giving in to cravings.
I also read somewhere that constantly chewing gum can help you lose about 12 lbs. a year by the nature of a lack of calories ingested as well as calories burned from chewing.
Count me in. Chewing gum has been a lifesaver for me in my weight loss efforts.
Chewing gum is a great way to keep your calorie count down! Especially now, with all the tasty gum flavors, you can really satisfy a sweets craving!
Saw this over at Amy’s The Scented Life.
Sounds like a nice kit to motivate walking farther and longer.
Aloha
Count me in. I’m game for more real change.
By the way, I’m a big fan of Burning the Scale! So glad I lucked into it a few months ago.
wow this sounds like great way to get people motivated and active…. cool im glad america is finally taking issues like this seriously
wriggles is out of the kits, but if you are willing to settle for a pedometer only, state farm insurance is sponsoring something similar and they have “50 million pound challenge kits” which are available at local state farm office for free…. not as comprehensive but if it will get you motivated you might want ot check it out…. do a google search for more information
Mark – How did you come to that conclusion that they’re out of them? I know they’re having site issues, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re out of them. (How can they be out, if no one’s been able to register because the site’s been borked, is what I’m saying…)
Don’t worry – Wrigley’s is not out of the kits. Please check your email for instructions (you can email Mary directly with your info and she will get the packages out).
Sorry for all this!!
Claire
LOL That’s what I was getting at Claire, I’ve already chatted with her after our convo’s this morning!
Claire-
I got my little gift from the Wrigley people today. VERY cool. Thanks for the tip. I got a water bottle with a carrier, a pedometer, a Biggest Loser Workout DVD and 4 or 5 packs of gum.
Who doesn’t love free stuff!
Cool, glad you like it! You’ll have to let me know how the DVD is.
Just got back from my honeymoon, trying to catch up
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