Carb-Loaded: A Culture Dying to Eat

Filmmakers Lathe Poland and Eric Carlsen employ a light touch to address a heavy topic—diabetes, obesity, and other disorders that affect untold millions worldwide—suggesting that a carbohydrate-laden diet may be to blame. Poland tells his own compelling story, beginning with the shock of receiving a diagnosis of diabetes despite being a slender, outwardly healthy thirtysomething who had avoided sodas, junk food, and the other usual culprits. A segment on NPR about the skyrocketing number of diabetics—including young children—spurred him to learn more and make this engaging and informative documentary. Interspersed with Poland's jaunty narration are interviews with nutritionists, doctors, scientists, food bloggers, and others, as well as amusing animations (the role of the pancreas is explained by “Mr. Panky”), all backed by a quirky musical score. The film explores a number of relevant issues, including the role of the food industry and its shareholders, government policy that supports carb-heavy crops such as corn, and consumer demand for low-fat foods, which often translates into the addition of more salt and sugar to boost taste. But certainly one of the most memorable messages comes from Poland's personal experience: he literally ate himself back to good health by switching to a high-protein/low-carb diet, which led to a dramatic decrease in his blood-sugar levels. Highly recommended. Aud: P. (F. Gardner)