Regarding the June 14, letter commenting on New York's proposed ban on sodas ("New York Mayor Bloomberg's ban on sodas should be backed") my interest soon changed to destain when the author listed "public subsidies" a culprit to the obesity epidemic, jumping from sugary drinks to tobacco, meat and dairy and corn. More than 90 percent of agriculture subsidies go to five crops — wheat corn, soybeans, rice and cotton. Another source says the U.S. government heavily subsidizes grains, oilseeds, cotton, sugar and dairy products. Most other products, which account for about half of the total value of agriculture production (including beef/meats, hay, fruits, tree nuts and vegetables), receive only minimal government support. I do not disagree that there is an obesity problem in this country nor the fact that initial debates on many of our public safety laws (seat belts and passive restraints in vehicles, smoking in public building, and helmet laws for example) were initially against government intrusion to regulate how we live. I disagree that eliminating subsidies, which I question their necessity, is a solution. During the few years that tobacco received zero subsidies, there was no effect on tobacco use.
Letter: Public subsidies are not to blame for health issues
Letter to the editor
Regarding high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), the Mayo Clinic summarized that many research studies have yielded mixed results about the possible averse effects of consuming HFCS. Some research studies have linked consumption of large amounts of any type of sugar with weight and/or health problems. American Medical Association holds that HFCS is no different from any other sugar in relationship to obesity, diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Mayo Clinic concluded there is insufficient evidence to say HFCS is less healthy than other types of sweeteners. Despite cane and beet sugar being heavily subsidized making HFCS cheaper to use in processed foods, it is debatable that eliminating agricultural subsidizes along with "judicious taxation" (aren't we taxed enough?) would be the solution to obesity. Has elimination of trans fats had any effect? Another suggestion to combat obesity is simply exercise and moderate consumption of lean meat and low- or fat-free dairy products in a varied diet rich in fruits and vegetables. That should be easier to achieve than changing government regulations!
Janet Eastridge
Laurel
