The American Institute of Cancer Research says to take a second look at your picnic basket this upcoming Labor Day. According to the organization, many Americans still cling to ideas that they have to fatten up for winter and view Labor Day as an excuse to indulge. Historically, the harvest festival was a celebration of the fruits of summer before winter, but now, accordring to AICR nutritionist Sally Wally, "Compared to those who came before us, every day's a harvest festival. But this pattern of eating has long-term repercussions on obesity rates and on rates of chronic diseases like cancer."
I agree that we should all take a second look at our party foods and try to find healthy alternatives. However, I' m not sure that people are eating fatty foods on Labor Day weekend in an attempt to "fatten up for winter." Such fatty foods are just easily available and have positive associations for people in terms of celebrating the holiday.
The organization recommends trying some healthy dishes instead. You can see some of these recipes at The Recipe Corner on their website.
