65A - Fit and Well Column for March 28th, 2004

65A - TITLE: "Back from Brazil"

Here are some of our perceptions and LESSONS:

Similar to what we mentioned upon our return from Europe last year, we noted a significant difference in overall fitness and the number of overweight and obese people in Brazil. Generally, there were far fewer disproportionate midsections (big bellies!). That intrigued us again, and we sought to find some differences that might account for this difference.

Though our exploration was not scientific by any means, we DID determine some basic differences in general lifestyle choices that may very well account for the differences we observed.

• It is very common for people to WALK to their destinations. Yes, a good part of this is a function of the economic limitations of the country, but the benefits are there nonetheless. If you are working, and involved in society, chances are you cannot remain sedentary there. In Sao Paulo, where we stayed for about a week (to orchestrate and fully enjoy Angelica’s Christening), the roads are overloaded with traffic. So even if you are fortunate enough to afford your own car, it is usually very frustrating to try to negotiate your way through the snarled masses of automobiles. Easier, and quicker, just to walk.
• The proportions of food served at an average restaurant is significantly smaller than in America. Again, possibly a direct function of the strained economy, but nonetheless much healthier than what we typically see between our shores. Even the ICE CREAM CONES were smaller, so I had to adjust quickly. But adjust I did (though a couple of times we had TWO servings a day instead of one!).
• Fresh fruits and vegetables are typically served in abundance at ALL meals. Along with the staple of rice and beans (which, by the way, when combined, form a very digestible and high quality protein), there were always a wide variety of green vegetables and raw fruits. It always felt so good not only in the eating, but afterwards. It makes such a big difference to one’s general feeling of health and well-being when the diet is balanced, and complete. And, of great importance to me (being from New York), the prices are great! Again, a function of the economy, but still tremendously beneficial.
• Much of the food normally consumed is devoid of preservatives, and is generally in it’s natural state (unprocessed). We believe this further supports wellness and internal balance.

Our family spent a week on a large cattle farm in the green and lush hills of Brazil. I spent a lot of time with the owner of the farm, who is an active and very successful banker, and what is generally known as a "gentleman farmer". We had hours of very interesting and illuminating discussions about health and wellness, and how food and other lifestyle issues have long-term effect on the quality of life.

He was very proud that his farm was completely "organic". He spent a lot of time explaining to me exactly what that meant, and I was very impressed with the concept, and the apparent benefits.

The farm (which is a converted coffee plantation) is generally it’s own "eco-system". He introduces no organic elements from outside the land. No chemicals, preservatives, hormones, or other elements that would interfere with the natural cycle of nature.

Our good friend is convinced that a large part of the problem in more "industrialized" countries such as the United States is that we add various chemicals to our food products in order to make the process more efficient, but with the result of actually altering the effect of the food! He specifically cited the use of growth hormones in animals (to artificially regulate and increase the amount of meat) as one of the major factors that cause problems. He surmises that consumption of these hormones by humans actually alters the metabolic process, and encourages people to "bloat" in a similar fashion as the primary source animals. I must confess that I concur with his speculation.

You KNOW that Trish, Angelica and I couldn’t resist taking the opportunity to work out in some of the fitness centers in Brazil. So they had the great privilege of watching us "do our thing" on various cable equipment and free weights in Sao Paulo. Our spirit and style (still a legend in our own minds) served to inspire some very interesting conversations with staff and other fitness enthusiasts. As usual, we exchanged experiences, and formed a mutual admiration society.

One thing that was very notable was the number of Personal Trainers that were actively working with clients in the gym. Believe it or not, I would guess that there was a trainer for every three clients ACTIVELY assisting, support, and instructing! One of the requisites to be a personal trainer in Brazil is a degree in a related field. So, generally, the trainers were very knowledgeable and helpful, though comparatively young (compared to me, anyway!).

Trish and I discussed the amount of "recidivism" that was tracked there. And, as you might have guessed, it was very low. In other words, people kept "coming back" once they started an exercise program. A direct function of the large number of trainers available? Very possibly. But likely a combination of many factors, not the least of which is the general upbeat and spirited attitude of all the people in the gym.

Young or old, there was always a courteous but evident sense of camaraderie and mutual respect from all the clients. We were also delighted by the large proportion of seniors that were working out side-by-side with us youngsters! And the trainers appeared very adept at instructing them safely and effectively.

Trish and I feel it is ALWAYS beneficial to learn from others, especially other cultures. We have family ties to Brazil, and feel blessed that we have an opportunity to learn from them. Our perspective always changes, and we have a stronger appreciation for what we have here, and a clearer perception of areas that we might work on improving, along with ways to do just that.

Quite an exciting and wonderful experience! And, now, back to work (and good old Dairy Queen!).