[Chernabog]

I know my roommate has been spouting stuff about corn syrup for a while, but can someone here link to an actual study of how it affects your Glycemic Index or insulin levels or whatever as opposed to cane sugar?

To me, sodas with cane sugar taste different and better. But they're a once-in-a-while treat, like eating a candy bar (the month of December being an exception). I *might* have a regular soda or two per month (actually, I had my two at Mousepod's pad on Saturday). But that's it. Sugar is sugar. Eat less sugar and calories, take more exercise (35-45 minutes four times per week of CONTINUOUS cardio, meaning, you ARE sweating a lot), and unless you have a medical condition happening your body will get more into shape.

I agree about the salad thing -- the best for salads is to have balsamic vinegar (*not* balsamic vinegarette, which has oil in it). But yeah, if you're going to drown your salad in full-fat ranch dressing, you're almost better off eating a cheeseburger (both of which are terrible for you).

But the hardest part (like everything in life) is consistency and maintenance. Food is a big comfort for me personally, especially when I'm anxious, bored or depressed (and I am those things on a regular basis). Trying to shut my mouth when there's food right in front of me is really REALLY hard and a lot of times I just give in.

I don't know, is blaming corn syrup an excuse? There's an obesity epidemic AND there's a lot of people hitting the gym this month who look like they're in pretty good shape to me...