CCC alterations blog post

[Bob Hunter]

In light of a very lengthy (and heated) NN discussion regarding alterations to the CCC, I drafted a blog post that proposes we approach it more holistically. Okay, I admit it, shameless self promotion here! But really, I don't see this as a final draft, more of an evergreen document. In fact, many Naznetters have already indirectly contributed to my thought process for which I am grateful.

http://wp.me/PCVKA-2P

Here are some excerpts from the entry:

"We talk about sin related matters in the Code of Christian Conduct, but we have failed to explicitly spell out the dangers of not caring for the temples that God gave us. We have statements that denounce alcohol consumption, gambling and the use of tobacco, but there is very little to addresses a looming killer in our midst; overeating, poor diet and inactivity."

"John Wesley was outstanding example of physical health and activity...he had a zeal for walking and journeyed thousands of miles on foot even into his 80's."

"Pastor and author Rick Warren recently pledged to lose 90 lbs during a 52 week Church fitness plan developed in conjunction with Dr. Oz. Warren claims he gained 3 pounds each year during his 30 year tenure at Saddleback."

"High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a worst offender and often receives the dubious distinction of being the “crack cocaine” of sweeteners. It does not satisfy the hunger cycle, in fact, it blocks the brain’s ability to tell the body it has eaten"

"The quest to reclaim one’s body is an expression of holiness"

"Too often, Christians are guilty of compartmentalizing. In other words, they divorce their spiritual lives from their physical health. By promoting a holistic life-outlook, we encourage Christians to come to a better understanding of what God desires."

[Wes Smith]

Bob,

Them's fightin' words. Because I'm pretty sure my favorite, and has been since childhood, French toast topping "White Karo Syrup" is that high fructose corn syrup of which you speak. If that makes the new CCC, I'm outa here. Just so you know! A guy's gotta draw the line somewhere. And, by the way, I have not read one word where John Wesley spoke against White Karo Syrup.

Friend,

Wes

[Bob Hunter]

Bob,

Them's fightin' words. Because I'm pretty sure my favorite, and has been since childhood, French toast topping "White Karo Syrup" is that high fructose corn syrup of which you speak. If that makes the new CCC, I'm outa here. Just so you know! A guy's gotta draw the line somewhere. And, by the way, I have not read one word where John Wesley spoke against White Karo Syrup.

Friend,

Wes

Haha! Well, bear in mind that High Fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a cheap substitute for real sugar in North America because we produce a lot more corn than we do sugar and it is cheaper. So, likely, John Wesley had real sugar in his diet and much smaller amounts. Americans are sugar-a-holics. Soda pop is loaded with HFCS which is why we have an obesity problem. I have an idea: let's ban soda pop from GA's & DA's. Let's see it goes over.

Of course, I was thinking, if we are going to put people out over alcohol, then why not go for bust and kick em out for consuming HFCS? Choose your poison, right?
Just watch, you are going to be bootlegging bottles Karo Syrup, because we are going to ban it!!!!

[Roy Richardson]

Haha! Well, bear in mind that High Fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a cheap substitute for real sugar in North America because we produce a lot more corn than we do sugar and it is cheaper. So, likely, John Wesley had real sugar in his diet and much smaller amounts. Americans are sugar-a-holics. Soda pop is loaded with HFCS which is why we have an obesity problem. I have an idea: let's ban soda pop from GA's & DA's. Let's see it goes over.

Of course, I was thinking, if we are going to put people out over alcohol, then why not go for bust and kick em out for consuming HFCS? Choose your poison, right?
Just watch, you are going to be bootlegging bottles Karo Syrup, because we are going to ban it!!!!

We produce more corn, and restrict the import of sugar from other countries due to the powerful and influential sugar lobby in the South.

[Bob Hunter]

We produce more corn, and restrict the import of sugar from other countries due to the powerful and influential sugar lobby in the South.

As I understand it, imported sugar has heavy tariffs on it. So we came up with a solution to satisfy our sweet tooth and not break our wallet; unfortunately, studies now show it was a bad one.

[Roy Richardson]

As I understand it, imported sugar has heavy tariffs on it. So we came up with a solution to satisfy our sweet tooth and not break our wallet; unfortunately, studies now show it was a bad one.

Tariff protects the sugar lobby, HFCS buys votes in Iowa

Gaaak. I sound so cynical

[Jim Poteet]

In light of a very lengthy (and heated) NN discussion regarding alterations to the CCC, I drafted a blog post that proposes we approach it more holistically. Okay, I admit it, shameless self promotion here! But really, I don't see this as a final draft, more of an evergreen document. In fact, many Naznetters have already indirectly contributed to my thought process for which I am grateful.

http://wp.me/PCVKA-2P

Here are some excerpts from the entry:

"We talk about sin related matters in the Code of Christian Conduct, but we have failed to explicitly spell out the dangers of not caring for the temples that God gave us. We have statements that denounce alcohol consumption, gambling and the use of tobacco, but there is very little to addresses a looming killer in our midst; overeating, poor diet and inactivity."

"John Wesley was outstanding example of physical health and activity...he had a zeal for walking and journeyed thousands of miles on foot even into his 80's."

"Pastor and author Rick Warren recently pledged to lose 90 lbs during a 52 week Church fitness plan developed in conjunction with Dr. Oz. Warren claims he gained 3 pounds each year during his 30 year tenure at Saddleback."

"High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a worst offender and often receives the dubious distinction of being the “crack cocaine” of sweeteners. It does not satisfy the hunger cycle, in fact, it blocks the brain’s ability to tell the body it has eaten"

"The quest to reclaim one’s body is an expression of holiness"

"Too often, Christians are guilty of compartmentalizing. In other words, they divorce their spiritual lives from their physical health. By promoting a holistic life-outlook, we encourage Christians to come to a better understanding of what God desires."

Great stuff in your Blog. We Nazarenes haven't taken physical fitness & proper diet seriously in our denominational history.

[Bob Hunter]

Great stuff in your Blog. We Nazarenes haven't taken physical fitness & proper diet seriously in our denominational history.

Nope! I have a strange vision of doing a mini-workout for the entire General Assembly. I'd have those people jumping around, stretching and planking like no tomorrow. They will wish for Jesus' return.

[Roy Richardson]

Nope! I have a strange vision of doing a mini-workout for the entire General Assembly. I'd have those people jumping around, stretching and planking like no tomorrow. They will wish for Jesus' return.

Some will meet him that day I suspect

[Bob Hunter]

Some will meet him that day I suspect

I would also ban the sale of soda/pop and officially make Generally Assembly a decaffeinato event (mormonize it). But I'm afraid two things would happen: 1) The delegates would not be able to function due to caffeine withdrawals 2) They would all fall asleep during the sessions.

[Peggy Gray]

I would also ban the sale of soda/pop

You mean, kind of a Pepsi Prohibition. Yeah, that'd work.

[Roy Richardson]

I would also ban the sale of soda/pop and officially make Generally Assembly a decaffeinato event (mormonize it). But I'm afraid two things would happen: 1) The delegates would not be able to function due to caffeine withdrawals 2) They would all fall asleep during the sessions.

Those who didn't suffer cardiac arrest

[Michael Flowers]

I would also ban the sale of soda/pop and officially make Generally Assembly a decaffeinato event (mormonize it). But I'm afraid two things would happen: 1) The delegates would not be able to function due to caffeine withdrawals 2) They would all fall asleep during the sessions.

Better watch out, I get pretty grumpy without my Mountain Dew fix.

[Bob Hunter]

Sadly, this reinforces some of the thoughts I present in my blog. We are addicted to other substances and yet we expend all of our energies denouncing a few "hobby-horse" sins like alcohol and tobacco.

[Craig Laughlin]

Sadly, this reinforces some of the thoughts I present in my blog. We are addicted to other substances and yet we expend all of our energies denouncing a few "hobby-horse" sins like alcohol and tobacco.

But it is so much more fun to talk about other folks failings rather than mine. Besides, it makes me feel superior.

[Steven Burton]

You know caffeine can increase your anxiety level and an increase in anxiety level can cause stress and stress can lead you to eating more or eating the wrong foods.

[Bob Hunter]

But it is so much more fun to talk about other folks failings rather than mine. Besides, it makes me feel superior.

Is that a confession? The floor is open for confession...Let me guess, you are addicted to blue Slurpees? I knew there was something strange about you Craig, I bet you have a little toiletry bag in your Church office with a tooth brush and tooth paste to hide the blueness from your tongue and lips on Sunday. BUSTED!

[Steven Burton]

Is that a confession? The floor is open for confession...Let me guess, you are addicted to blue Slurpees? I knew there was something strange about you Craig, I bet you have a little toiletry bag in your Church office with a tooth brush and tooth paste to hide the blueness from your tongue and lips on Sunday. BUSTED!

Hey Blue is the bet taste they have. Don't knock it come on over and try it.

[Dan Henderson]

You know caffeine can increase your anxiety level and an increase in anxiety level can cause stress and stress can lead you to eating more or eating the wrong foods.

Lack of caffeine on my part will most definately increase your anxiety level.

[Gina Stevenson]

Hey Blue is the bet taste they have. Don't knock it come on over and try it.

Is it the usual flavor that blue is ...blue raspberry? have not had any such sugary/corn syrupy thing flavored like that in a long, long time. But when I used to succumb to such things, that was one of my faves. Raspberry still is.

[John Kennedy]

Every time I see the thread title (CCC Alterations) I have to back up and read it again - it always looks like 'altercations'.

[Roy Richardson]

Every time I see the thread title (CCC Alterations) I have to back up and read it again - it always looks like 'altercations'.

That may be the end result

[Steven Burton]

Lack of caffeine on my part will most definately increase your anxiety level.

You can't increase my anxiety level unless I let you. You do not know the amount of time I have put into controlling my anxiety.

[Bob Hunter]

When I see CCC I keep thinking Coricidin, Cough & Cold. That stuff taste about as bad as a Blue Slurpee (only it's green). Both should be banned by action of the General Assembly.

CCC could also mean: Confess Come Clean....Because most Nazarenes are not fully compliant in all areas of the Code of Christian Conduct therefore CCC is required.

[Hans Deventer]

CCC could also mean: Confess Come Clean....Because most Nazarenes are not fully compliant in all areas of the Code of Christian Conduct therefore CCC is required.

It's interesting. I think we all agree the Law could not be fulfilled without the Holy Spirit in our lives (Romans 7 comes to mind). We need God's love poured out in our hearts. But when such is the case, we no longer need Law as law.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Gal 5)

Now the Holy Spirit, as we all know, often works through people when it comes to insight. Hence, there definitely is a use for guidelines. But the more we turn them into law, the more we're reverting to a distorted OT concept of law that will only lead to guilt, despair and repression. The very things Christ should have liberated us from.

[Bob Hunter]

It's interesting. I think we all agree the Law could not be fulfilled without the Holy Spirit in our lives (Romans 7 comes to mind). We need God's love poured out in our hearts. But when such is the case, we no longer need Law as law.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Gal 5)

Now the Holy Spirit, as we all know, often works through people when it comes to insight. Hence, there definitely is a use for guidelines. But the more we turn them into law, the more we're reverting to a distorted OT concept of law that will only lead to guilt, despair and repression. The very things Christ should have liberated us from.

The Covenant of Christian Conduct acknowledges that Manual 33.4:

"In listing practices to be avoided we recognize that
no catalog, however inclusive, can hope to encompass all
forms of evil throughout the world. Therefore it is imperative
that our people earnestly seek the aid of the Spirit in
cultivating a sensitivity to evil that transcends the mere letter
of the law; remembering the admonition: “Test everything.
Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.”

Again, there are some fine statements in the CCC, I just think some revisions and adaptations will be necessary in the future. It does have a warning against prescription drug abuse, which is rampant in today's Church. I don't know of anyone disqualified from ministry for being addicted to pain killers or sleep aides. But you can bet they will be out the door if they have a glass of wine (which actually has some benefit).

[Hans Deventer]

The Covenant of Christian Conduct acknowledges that Manual 33.4:

"In listing practices to be avoided we recognize that
no catalog, however inclusive, can hope to encompass all
forms of evil throughout the world. Therefore it is imperative
that our people earnestly seek the aid of the Spirit in
cultivating a sensitivity to evil that transcends the mere letter
of the law; remembering the admonition: “Test everything.
Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.”

Either I have explained myself badly, or I don't read well, but I don't see it. It merely says that the CCC can never include all sorts of evil and hence, we need the Spirit to teach us in what is not contained in the CCC. I'm arguing against it having the function of law. And I would say we always need the Spirit because only the Spirit can enable us to live as we should. Law never enables virtue

[Glenn Messer]

Sadly, this reinforces some of the thoughts I present in my blog. We are addicted to other substances and yet we expend all of our energies denouncing a few "hobby-horse" sins like alcohol and tobacco.

I'll get on board the day someone DUIs on Pepsi, drives the wrong way on the interstate and kills a carload of people.

[Bob Hunter]

Either I have explained myself badly, or I don't read well, but I don't see it. It merely says that the CCC can never included all sorts of evil and hence, we need the Spirit to teach us in what is not contained in the CCC. I'm arguing against it having the function of law. And I would say we always need the Spirit because only the Spirit can enable us to live as we should. Law never enables virtue

Well, I don't think you explained yourself badly, I probably read it from a different angle. It does mention the "spirit" in cultivating sensitivity and the importance of transcending the the mere letter of the law. And I think it is a clear statement of what the CCC can do and what it cannot do. The CCC has some serious limitations and I think it is healthy to acknowledge that.

[Bob Hunter]

I'll get on board the day someone DUIs on Pepsi, drives the wrong way on the interstate and kills a carload of people.

Okay, then by that logic you should kill your cell phone, because texting while driving is fatal, so we should get rid of cell phones they must be the problem.

The best self control mechanism is between your two ears.

[Glenn Messer]

I'm pretty much on board on the phone issue. I never (probably less than 5 exceptions in my life) text -- not even when I'm not driving.

My phone rang yesterday evening and I looked at it and laid it aside. My wife asked why I didn't answer it. I told her if it was important they would leave a message or call back. She thought that was rude. We were not in the car; we were sitting at home. I lived 50 years of my life without a cell phone. I don't need one glued to my ear.

The first communication device I owned was a pager. The first time it buzzed me I was sitting in a Denny's restaurant with members of my family. The waitress was taking our order when the pager went off. It surprised me and I jumped. The waitress looked at me as if to ask, "What's wrong?" I blurted out, "It's OK. My vibrator just went off." The waitress looked somewhat perplexed and my family nearly fell on the floor laughing.

Yes, I own a 'smart' phone, but it's not smart enough to make me answer it when I don't want to.

[Wes Smith]

I could not agree more about the need for an emphasis on physical body stewardship in the Church of the Nazarene. On the other hand, I am quite amazed by number of 50+ years of marriages and Nazarenes dieing in the 80's and 90's. It would be interesting to have a survey that reveals the exercise and dieting habits of our octogenarians and beyond! It has alway amazed me that a high percentage of elderly people have not been very concerned about physical fitness or diet. For many of our people, long life just happens.

For me, I'm having some quite physically cathartic experiences here in Costa Rica. We live in a self-sustaining village. We grow our own fruits and vegetables organically. I just cooked some beets and have a "mess" of red beans cooking at the moment. Rather miraculously and easily, I've lost nearly 30 pounds in our 9 months being here. Part of it has to do with diet, part to do with the fact that the hiking is extremely strenuous...no long flat areas, all the roads and paths are steep! Also, the Yoga classes have been making an amazing contribution to my stretching and strength. VERY pleased with this transition!

Let's have the next General Assembly at the bottom of the Grand Canyon!

Friend,

Wes

[John Kennedy]

Let's have the next General Assembly at the bottom of the Grand Canyon!

Friend,

Wes

So this is the way you and Dave and Linda will take over the denomination..............

[Bob Hunter]

I could not agree more about the need for an emphasis on physical body stewardship in the Church of the Nazarene. On the other hand, I am quite amazed by number of 50+ years of marriages and Nazarenes dieing in the 80's and 90's. It would be interesting to have a survey that reveals the exercise and dieting habits of our octogenarians and beyond! It has alway amazed me that a high percentage of elderly people have not been very concerned about physical fitness or diet. For many of our people, long life just happens.

For me, I'm having some quite physically cathartic experiences here in Costa Rica. We live in a self-sustaining village. We grow our own fruits and vegetables organically. I just cooked some beets and have a "mess" of red beans cooking at the moment. Rather miraculously and easily, I've lost nearly 30 pounds in our 9 months being here. Part of it has to do with diet, part to do with the fact that the hiking is extremely strenuous...no long flat areas, all the roads and paths are steep! Also, the Yoga classes have been making an amazing contribution to my stretching and strength. VERY pleased with this transition!

Let's have the next General Assembly at the bottom of the Grand Canyon!

Friend,

Wes

I commend you for the weight loss, your bones and joints will reward you. Also, keep in mind that you lose a lot of fluids in a hot muggy climate like Costa Rica. I would attribute the longevity of Nazarene married couples to several things; a) Most can afford quality health care which allows for preventative medicine and thus longevity b) The Nazarene lifestyle has its abuses but generally avoids life-shortening behaviors like smoking, alcohol abuse, etc. c) Many studies reveal that Married couples live longer whether they are Christian or not.

If I were in charge I would change the venue of GA. It would be more like a hippy gathering in the woods with big campfire worship in the evening.

[Cynthia Prentice]

This thread disturbs me. I studied clinical nutrition in college and I am the mother of a 15 year old who gained a large amount of weight very quickly beginning around age 10. We explained to his pediatrician that he does not overeat. He gets *exercise. He does not drink sugary beverages. Ironically...he really doesn't show much interest in food. I shared with her his frustration at being judged as a lazy teenager who stuffs his face...when nothing could be further than the truth. His pediatrician explained that he most likely has insulin resistance (hyperinsulinemia). Insulin (a hormone) is highly involved in fat storage and the hormonal changes of oncoming puberty often cause a significant weight gain for those with this problem...and it continues through adulthood. She explained that she has two sons, one who eats a lot and is thin, the other eats less and struggles with his weight. They are both very active. She shared that within the next ten years there will be a big change in the way we understand why people are overweight. It is very likely that" hyperinsulinemia" is the genetic "cart" before the "horse" of obesity. The medical community's wheels are slow to turn when they find that what they have been recommending (low fat - lots of "good" carbohydrates) is actually contributing to the problem instead of helping solve it.

She validated my son...and the truth about what and how much he eats. My son is not the only person in my family that is insulin resistant. His doctor explained that there is almost certainly a genetic component. Before there was a stable food supply it was the people with this genetic make up that survived extensive periods of famine.

Two months ago my son went on a high fat (including saturated fat) - moderate protein - low carbohydrate diet (all carbohydrates - even good ones - break down into glucose/sugar, which stimulates insulin secretion). This diet has NO calorie restrictions but it does limit the carbs to 50 grams per day (fiber does not count toward daily total). In two months he has lost thirty pounds and his numbers are great. It should be noted that what he eats is pretty much opposite of what the federal government recommends he should eat. I am glad that his pediatrician does not work for the FDA.

We need to be careful about the spiritual conclusions we draw regarding people who are overweight.

Sincerely,
Cynthia

edited to add: previous to diet change my son's exercise included elliptical workout, racquetball, and weight training. We homeschool and my son's workouts were at the gym with his dad.
edited to add: My son went swimming without his shirt on this week. He is down to 160 and continues to be amazed at how his weight, in his own words, is almost magically going down. How thankful I am for a doctor who recognized that my son is part of the appx. 1 in 4 Americans who is insulin resistant.

Hyperinsulinemia:
Beta cells in the pancreas produce insulin. Insulin stimulates uptake of glucose (sugar) from the blood to the cells in the body. When the body's cells are resistant to the action of the insulin, it is called insulin resistance (IR). As a result of the insulin resistance, the pancreas produces much more insulin than normal. This is called hyperinsulinemia. As an example, in a normal person, 1 unit of insulin might be needed to help 10 mg of glucose go into the cell, but in a hyperinsulinemic person, 10 units of insulin might be needed to get the same 10 mg of glucose into the cell.

Fat Head Documentary (funny and informative) - free on Hulu http://www.hulu.com/watch/196879 (also available on Amazon instant video and netflix)
If you have seen Super Size Me, I challenge you to watch Fat Head, a documentary refuting the lipid hypothesis http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fat_Head

Recommended reading - Good Calories, Bad Calories: Challenging the Conventional Wisdom on Diet, Weight Control, and Disease (2007) by acclaimed science writer Gary Taubes http://www.amazon.com/Good-Calories-.../dp/1400040787

Detailed outline of the book - download free pdf http://lowerthought.files.wordpress....d-calories.pdf

Why we get Fat (2011) Gary Taubes - less technical, layman's version of Good Calories Bad Calories http://garytaubes.com/works/books/why-we-get-fat/

some peer reviewed articles -
http://www.ajcn.org/content/91/3/535.abstract
http://www.metabolismjournal.com/art...250-9/abstract
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10837285
http://www.diabetesincontrol.com/ind...id=1&Itemid=17
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15164336
http://www.nutritionandmetabolism.com/content/2/1/21
http://www.latimes.com/health/la-he-...,5464425.story

New York Times (2002) - What if It's All Been a Big Fat Lie? http://www.nytimes.com/2002/07/07/ma...%20lie?&st=cse
10 years after the ground breaking article (2012) - http://garytaubes.com/2012/01/updates-for-2012/

[Roy Richardson]

If I were in charge I would change the venue of GA. It would be more like a hippy gathering in the woods with big campfire worship in the evening.

I would go for that. I suspect the gathering would be small

[Steven Burton]

This thread disturbs me. I studied clinical nutrition in college and I am the mother of a 15 year old who gained a large amount of weight very quickly beginning around age 10. We explained to his pediatrician that he does not overeat. He gets exercise. He does not drink sugary beverages. Ironically...he really doesn't show much interest in food. I shared with her his frustration at being judged as a lazy teenager who stuffs his face...when nothing could be further than the truth. His pediatrician explained that he most likely has insulin resistance (hyperinsulinemia). Insulin (a hormone) is highly involved in fat storage and the hormonal changes of oncoming puberty often cause a significant weight gain for those with this problem...and it continues through adulthood. She explained that she has two sons, one who eats a lot and is thin, the other eats less and struggles with his weight. They are both very active. She shared that within the next ten years there will be a big change in the way we understand why people are overweight. It is very likely that" hyperinsulinemia" is the genetic "cart" before the "horse" of obesity. The medical community's wheels are slow to turn when they find that what they have been recommending (low fat - lots of "good" carbohydrates) is actually contributing to the problem instead of helping solve it.

She validated my son...and the truth about what and how much he eats. My son is not the only person in my family that is insulin resistant. His doctor explained that there is almost certainly a genetic component. Before there was a stable food supply it was the people with this genetic make up that survived extensive periods of famine.

Two months ago my son went on a high fat (including saturated fat) - moderate protein - low carbohydrate diet (all carbohydrates - even good ones - break down into glucose/sugar, which stimulates insulin secretion). This diet has NO calorie restrictions but it does limit the carbs to 50 grams per day (fiber does not count toward daily total). In two months he has lost thirty pounds and his numbers are great. It should be noted that what he eats is pretty much opposite of what the federal government recommends he should eat. I am glad that his pediatrician does not work for the FDA.

We need to be careful about the spiritual conclusions we draw regarding people who are overweight.

Sincerely,
Cynthia


Fat Head Documentary (funny and informative) - free on Hulu http://www.hulu.com/watch/196879 (also available on Amazon instant video and netflix)
If you have seen Super Size Me, I challenge you to watch Fat Head, a documentary refuting the lipid hypothesis http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fat_Head

Recommended reading - Good Calories, Bad Calories: Challenging the Conventional Wisdom on Diet, Weight Control, and Disease (2007) by acclaimed science writer Gary Taubes http://www.amazon.com/Good-Calories-.../dp/1400040787

Detailed outline of the book - download free pdf http://lowerthought.files.wordpress....d-calories.pdf

Why we get Fat (2011) Gary Taubes - less technical, layman's version of Good Calories Bad Calories http://garytaubes.com/works/books/why-we-get-fat/

some peer reviewed articles -
http://www.ajcn.org/content/91/3/535.abstract
http://www.metabolismjournal.com/art...250-9/abstract
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10837285
http://www.diabetesincontrol.com/ind...id=1&Itemid=17
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15164336
http://www.nutritionandmetabolism.com/content/2/1/21
http://www.latimes.com/health/la-he-...,5464425.story

New York Times (2002) - What if It's All Been a Big Fat Lie? http://www.nytimes.com/2002/07/07/ma...%20lie?&st=cse
10 years after the ground breaking article (2012) - http://garytaubes.com/2012/01/updates-for-2012/

You know this stuff has been preached for years by top bodybuilders and few in the nutrition industry. Bodybuilders are usually the first ones to find out whether this nutrition stuff works or not. I have been in arguments about fat and carb relations plenty of times. You know there are some studies showing increase in testosterone levels when you consume saturated fats. Which will increase the fat burned by the body. Not to mentions bodybuilders do quite a bit with diet to maintain healthy insulin levels so they don't drop or spike.

[Bob Hunter]

This thread disturbs me. I studied clinical nutrition in college and I am the mother of a 15 year old who gained a large amount of weight very quickly beginning around age 10. We explained to his pediatrician that he does not overeat. He gets exercise. He does not drink sugary beverages. Ironically...he really doesn't show much interest in food. I shared with her his frustration at being judged as a lazy teenager who stuffs his face...when nothing could be further than the truth. His pediatrician explained that he most likely has insulin resistance (hyperinsulinemia). Insulin (a hormone) is highly involved in fat storage and the hormonal changes of oncoming puberty often cause a significant weight gain for those with this problem...and it continues through adulthood. She explained that she has two sons, one who eats a lot and is thin, the other eats less and struggles with his weight. They are both very active. She shared that within the next ten years there will be a big change in the way we understand why people are overweight. It is very likely that" hyperinsulinemia" is the genetic "cart" before the "horse" of obesity. The medical community's wheels are slow to turn when they find that what they have been recommending (low fat - lots of "good" carbohydrates) is actually contributing to the problem instead of helping solve it.

She validated my son...and the truth about what and how much he eats. My son is not the only person in my family that is insulin resistant. His doctor explained that there is almost certainly a genetic component. Before there was a stable food supply it was the people with this genetic make up that survived extensive periods of famine.

Two months ago my son went on a high fat (including saturated fat) - moderate protein - low carbohydrate diet (all carbohydrates - even good ones - break down into glucose/sugar, which stimulates insulin secretion). This diet has NO calorie restrictions but it does limit the carbs to 50 grams per day (fiber does not count toward daily total). In two months he has lost thirty pounds and his numbers are great. It should be noted that what he eats is pretty much opposite of what the federal government recommends he should eat. I am glad that his pediatrician does not work for the FDA.

We need to be careful about the spiritual conclusions we draw regarding people who are overweight.

Sincerely,
Cynthia


Fat Head Documentary (funny and informative) - free on Hulu http://www.hulu.com/watch/196879 (also available on Amazon instant video and netflix)
If you have seen Super Size Me, I challenge you to watch Fat Head, a documentary refuting the lipid hypothesis http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fat_Head

Recommended reading - Good Calories, Bad Calories: Challenging the Conventional Wisdom on Diet, Weight Control, and Disease (2007) by acclaimed science writer Gary Taubes http://www.amazon.com/Good-Calories-.../dp/1400040787

Detailed outline of the book - download free pdf http://lowerthought.files.wordpress....d-calories.pdf

Why we get Fat (2011) Gary Taubes - less technical, layman's version of Good Calories Bad Calories http://garytaubes.com/works/books/why-we-get-fat/

some peer reviewed articles -
http://www.ajcn.org/content/91/3/535.abstract
http://www.metabolismjournal.com/art...250-9/abstract
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10837285
http://www.diabetesincontrol.com/ind...id=1&Itemid=17
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15164336
http://www.nutritionandmetabolism.com/content/2/1/21
http://www.latimes.com/health/la-he-...,5464425.story

New York Times (2002) - What if It's All Been a Big Fat Lie? http://www.nytimes.com/2002/07/07/ma...%20lie?&st=cse
10 years after the ground breaking article (2012) - http://garytaubes.com/2012/01/updates-for-2012/

Cynthia,

First, I really appreciate your input and I'm glad you are finding solutions for your son. Actually, if you read the entire blog article, I argue against narrowing the problem to a weight loss program or excessive sugar intake (both still need to be addressed). I propose a holistic understanding of our spiritual and physical health. Some folks can be overweight and very active and healthy. I have no problem with that whatsoever. I work with some men for whom low Testosterone is a big issue (myself included) and as a result they cannot readily convert fat to muscle. Low T is associated with weight gain, so it has nothing to do with drinking sugar water. I think a holistic life-outlook can help us identify the things that hinder us physically and spiritually from living our best life for God. For example, I am fit and physically cut; most people wouldn't know it, but I suffer from chronic pelvic pain. My condition requires dietary adjustments; no pop, caffeine, tea, coffee, spicy stuff, etc. It took me years to figure it out, but now I am much healthier. I also moved to a warmer climate to escape the cold wet winters of the NW that did nothing but cause me to live in daily pain. Whatever it takes. We have to look at the whole picture of health and that will be different for different people.

I would also point out that when folks say they are active and working out to stay fit... well, that means different things to different people. My wife is a therapist (She is an O.T who co-treats with P.T's) and she sees this all the time. A patient in Rehab will claim they are working out and to them walking a 100 yards to the mailbox is a work-out. But if a Doctor recommends 30 minutes of vigorous walking, that little walk to the mail box ain't going to cut it. But to them, they are just dying and they barely broke a sweat. So it is very relative to the individual. My wife has to constantly push her patients beyond the limits (Doctors orders), because they just don't want to do it. Sedentary lifestyles have taken over. We are spoiled with 21st Century conveniences (generalization I know, but work with me here!) So, she has a reputation for inflicting pain on her patients in a good way. She doesn't want to hurt anyone, but she gets paid to do it. They need to be sore, they need to sweat, they need to be pushed or they will regress to laziness and their muscles will atrophy.

Anyway, I'm just rambling on here, but please hear my heart, I am not out to criticize anyone's weight gain. We all know it can come with age, child birth, thyroid problems, hormone imbalance, etc. There are a whole host of issues that contribute.

[David Graham]

Well, I don't think you explained yourself badly, I probably read it from a different angle. It does mention the "spirit" in cultivating sensitivity and the importance of transcending the the mere letter of the law. And I think it is a clear statement of what the CCC can do and what it cannot do. The CCC has some serious limitations and I think it is healthy to acknowledge that.

If the CCC has "serious" limitations, why have it at all?

Once a particular standard becomes an article of law, a number of things will happen.
1. Some will just ignore it!
2. Some will find ways around it.
3. Some will feel frustrated that it goes too far will either leave or stay and "grumble" about it.
4. Some will not believe a particular aspect of the standard is acceptable and feel terribly guilty when they "break the law". e.g. Having a glass of wine with some Christian friends over dinner.
5. Some will be left to try and defend the often "undefendable"..... e.g. "we don't dance because?????"

We have no special rules at my church and I would without hesitation back the integrity of the christian lives of the average Christian in my congregation against the average Christian in any other congregation be that Nazarene or otherwise.
In the end Rules make no difference to how people live!

[Bob Hunter]

If the CCC has "serious" limitations, why have it at all?

Once a particular standard becomes an article of law, a number of things will happen.
1. Some will just ignore it!
2. Some will find ways around it.
3. Some will feel frustrated that it goes too far will either leave or stay and "grumble" about it.
4. Some will not believe a particular aspect of the standard is acceptable and feel terribly guilty when they "break the law". e.g. Having a glass of wine with some Christian friends over dinner.
5. Some will be left to try and defend the often "undefendable"..... e.g. "we don't dance because?????"

We have no special rules at my church and I would without hesitation back the integrity of the christian lives of the average Christian in my congregation against the average Christian in any other congregation be that Nazarene or otherwise.
In the end Rules make no difference to how people live!

Well that is an interesting perspective! Thank you for being so honest. You are right, in the end rules for Christian living such as stay away from alcohol are pretty inconsequential and a recent NN poll indicated as much. But I think the idea is not to call it a rule, but encourage members to covenant around these ideals so as to represent Christ in the world. I see where they are coming from, but the CCC is slightly out of touch in areas and needs revision. It needs something, when people blatantly ignore it and it becomes the butt end of denominational jokes, then we have to do something.