The real secret to better living

The real secret to better living

Here’s one of my biggest pet peeves: Scientists that manipulate foods in an effort to make them “healthy.”

The latest example comes from a group of students at John Hopkins University. They engineered a form of yeast to produce beta-carotene. They say their goal is, “…to design a yeast strain that synthesizes essential nutrients that the human body can’t produce.”

Maybe I shouldn’t be so harsh. After all, their intentions are good. Eventually, they hope to provide this type of product to people in developing nations. To those who don’t have access to the nutrient-rich food they need to survive. But why is genetically modifying food the best way to combat this problem?!

What’s wrong with taking a vitamin?

There’s an organization called Vitamin Angels that provides essential nutrients to people who need them. They don’t genetically modify anything, yet they’ve changed the lives–and the health–of millions of people around the globe.

Why do the so-called “experts” in this country always think better living happens through chemistry? Maybe the real secret to better living is simply being better to one another. Sharing what we have with those less fortunate and volunteering our time–not just our money–to causes we believe in.

As you read this, I’ll be on my yearly, “Dr. Fred Gives Back” tour–distributing healthy care in a country where it is severely lacking. I do this every year to lend my expertise. But there hasn’t been a year yet where I haven’t gained so much more in the process. I can’t wait to fill you in on my experiences when I get back.

In the meantime, I encourage you to check out Vitamin Angels and consider supporting the great work they do.