Emphasis on health will cut costs of care

Regarding the April 17 Fence Post, "Giving up meat will resolve major issues", take heart Ms. Crawford. She wrote, "Was there any mention of promoting health and nutrition..." Yes there was.

The new health care law addressed wide-ranging public initiatives which are aimed at promoting healthy behavior.

To name a few: Chain restaurants with more than 20 locations will be required to provide calorie information for standard menu items.

Eat 'n Park, based in Pittsburgh, goes beyond the minimum requirement by posting selections for those with specific dietary needs such as diabetes, celiac disorder and more on the back of the multi-page menu.

The new bill must have that type of information available on site to those patrons who request it. I suspect those who have special dietary needs will enjoy this added information. The law encourages food service employers to offer incentives to employees to become proactive about their overall health.

More bike paths, playgrounds, and hiking trails, paid for by a new federal trust fund, will encourage exercise without a gas-fueled trek to a gym. While Republicans decried the money being spent as pork barrel projects, the $5 billion to be spent over five years can help build healthier communities if they are used.

While there are no guarantees, it is hoped that the emphasis on affordable physical activity and better nutrition together with disease prevention measures will reduce overall health care costs.

To address the core of Crawford's comment, I would recommend cutting back meat as well, especially if you are knowledgeable regarding the necessary dietary changes needed to compensate for the good nutrients otherwise provided by the missing meat.

Audrey Beauvais

Arlington Heights