Skinny stays "in"
The British Fashion Council stopped short of recommending a ban on ultra-thin models. The report out today says fashion models should be 16-years-old or older and should be screened for eating disorders. Last year, ultra-thin models were banned from fashion week runways in Madrid, Spain and Milan, Italy. Organizers in Paris and London have come under pressure to do the same.
The British report, written by a panel composed of fashion designers, models and an eating disorder specialist, asked agencies to certify that their models had been examined for eating disorders by an accredited list of medical experts.
Up to 40 percent of models may have eating disorders, compared with an estimated 3 percent of the overall population, the report said.
The British Fashion Council hopes to combat eating disorders through medical tests, mentoring programs and workshops.
Details for this entry came from an Associated Press report.
Here's a little tidbit that's disconcerting, but certainly something to think about before rushing through the drive-thru: Americans are fatter than ever. Obesity rates are up in most states and fewer of us are exercising. The group Trust for America's Health concluded things have gotten so bad - and Americans so big - that it will get under control only if state and federal governments, schools and individuals work together. 
Medical City Hospital of Dallas publishes a quarterly magazine chockfull of helpful information. An article in its spring publication caught my attention and made me re-think my family’s plans for summer vacation. The article is about the health benefits of volunteering- like lower blood pressure, a bolstered immune system and reduced insomnia. What a change from stress-ridden bolts to the airport, long lines at Disney World, whining, over-sugared children and colds after the plane ride home!