Tid bits; this and that

The following are either some thoughts I've had, or quotes from famous people (where applicable, and the source is known, the quotes will be attributed to the originators).

Smokers sometimes weigh less than their weed-free friends, but they tend to have bigger bellies. This is not a good thing...not just if they want to be a centerfold, but especially if they'd like to reduce their risk of things like high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Check your waist to hip ratio. If it's greater than 1 for men or 0.8 for women, then lose that tire and quit smoking.

From G.K. Chesterton: Gluttony is a great fault, but we don't necessarily dislike a glutton. We only dislike a glutton when he/she becomes a 'gourmet'...that is, we only dislike them when they not only want the best for themselves, but know what is best for other people.

Sedentary living, not cholesterol, is most likely the villain when it comes to heart disease. That, plus hydrogenated vegetable oils!

Since laughter is probably the best medicine, put on a happy face. It shouldn't be too difficult to find something to laugh about every day. Forget the chocolates when you visit a sick friend, bring them a funny book or DVD.

The next time a friend offers you some of his hunting-season bounty, think twice before turning up your nose. Wild game usually has less fat than the domesticated variety but is equal in nutritional value. Wild turkeys, however, are usually pretty tough.

From Emile Souvester: The stomach is a slave that must accept everything that is given to it, but which avenges wrongs as slyly as does the slave.

Sometimes the stomach turns the tables and becomes the master.

Symptoms of a heart attack:
* Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing or pain in the centre of the chest for more than two minutes.
* Pain may spread to the shoulders, neck or arms.
* Severe pain, dizziness, fainting, sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath may occur.
* These signals aren't always present. Symptoms may subside and then return.
If you experience any of these symptoms call an ambulance or have someone drive you to the hospital immediately. The ambulance is a better bet, since they have life-saving equipment on board.

Symptoms of a stroke:
If you suspect that you, a loved one or friend is having a stroke, ask them (or have yourself) perform three tasks: smile; utter a complete sentence; raise both arms above your head. If any of the tasks can't be completed it's time for an ambulance.

White pasta is the nutritional equivalent of white bread. Chose whole wheat when you can. While some are reluctant at first, the majority of those who try whole wheat pasta are won over by it's 'nutty' flavour.

From Stephen Phillips: In the Middle Ages they had guillotines, stretch racks, whips and chains. Nowadays we have a much more effective torture device called the bathroom scale.

From Arnold Glasgow: Your body is the baggage you must carry through life. The more excess baggage, the shorter the trip.

Finally, from W.C. Fields: Once, during Prohibition, I was forced to live for days on nothing but food and water.