Food for Thought

It’s been a while since I’ve posted a roundup of news that’s been making me think (other Food for Thought) – read on!

Barefoot running – the once and future way to run?

The New York Times jumps on the barefoot running bandwagon (again? I feel they’ve written numerous accounts about it) and shares with you a video on the once and future way to run. Almost two years ago, I wrote this great summary article about barefoot running and I’ve yet to get the Vibram Five Fingers shoes I wanted (though they are made right here in Milan!)

Peanut butter crisis? Nooooooo

I’ll admit I had some colleagues bring me goodies when we had our annual meetup in Budapest last month, and peanut butter was definitely on the list (you know how I love nut butters)! Now it seems I was too conservative and should have asked for triple the amount I got. That’s right, peanut butter prices will be skyrocketing soon (WSJ)! Argh. Planning next shipment now.

Gain weight to lose it, to prove a point? No, thanks

This personal trainer is gaining weight on purpose (70 lbs so far!) to then show how he can get in shape again. I understand he will show people how to get in shape again (it’s pretty clear people like “success stories” much better than someone who just appears to be thin and in shape their whole lives) but I think messing with your body like that is not worth any amount of money to me.

It’s not honey, honey

Uh oh! More than 75% of honey found in U.S. supermarkets isn’t real honey? Tests show most brands are selling honey devoid of any traces of pollen. The process of ultra-filtration is removing all of the pollen traces, but also means it’s hard to identify its origin and could mean it’s coming from China, which has been dumping honey and sometimes they contain traces of antibiotics:

“It’s no secret to anyone in the business that the only reason all the pollen is filtered out is to hide where it initially came from and the fact is that in almost all cases, that is China,” Adee added.

Half marathon?

I updated my list of upcoming running events in Italy, and I’m considering a spring half marathon, but I am also thinking about doing a destination half marathon, too. The trick is to arrive early enough to combat any jet lag, if applicable. Any cool races I should check out?

And of course, excited for all the runners who completed the New York City Marathon this past weekend 🙂 Congrats!