[twigs]

I think that a lot of low-cost food is high in carbs. So is the food that more well-off people buy at fast-food restaurants on their way to soccer games. Many years ago, a lady on food stamps lived with me. I didn't spend near the money on food she had alloted to her. I think good nutrition is a matter of knowing what to eat and having the will power to do it.

[Utah Girl]

Exactly right. Plus the low-fat diet craze of the nineties begat Snackwells, snacks low in fat, but highter in calories than the foods they were replacing, and much higher in carbs. Plus exercise is the way to keep one's metabolism in good order, as well as eating nutritiously. Eat nutritiously takes knowledge, planning, and willpower.

[tom paine 2]

I just went on the Atkins diet not too long ago. I am in the last week of the Induction phase. It is amazing how the fat melts off. No more gorging on pasta and bread!