Eat, drink and be merry?

As usual, the media is full of information about how to lose weight in the New Year.  I was reading an article about how new research has revealed that four in ten obese people here in the UK consider themselves to be a 'healthy' size and that many of us are 'blissfully unaware' of the true impact that our lifestyles are having on our health.

As is often the case, some of the comments on this particular article were more interesting than the article itself.  Here are two of them:

Fact: a person who drops dead of obesity related illness at 55 is lower cost to the public purse than a stringy 90 year old. One works until death (even if they need expensive healthcare), the other collects a pension for years and STILL needs expensive healthcare.

and

Why on earth does everyone complain about the growing old-aged population and then encourage everyone to live longer?? We would be better off if people spent their money enjoying themselves and died a little bit younger. In my late 50s, I am officially obese, but I can run up 100 steps and not be breathless at the top. I can cycle for 20 miles and be as fresh as a daisy. I can walk for miles and miles. I have no intention of dieting, because I enjoy food & alcohol - and if I die at 80 instead of 90, that will do me. I don't want an extra 10 years if I have to live like a monk. By spending on food and drink, I am helping the economy.

So, what do you think?  Would you rather enjoy yourself and die at a younger age?  Or practise restraint and hope to live longer?

Comments

[Lucie]

I am with you. A life without chocolate is just not going to cut it for me.