Lately, America seems like a divided place. I find articles about good nutrition daily. But that is not the only food content the Internet has to offer.

“This is Why You’re Fat” is a blog I heard about last spring. I looked at it, and was a little disgusted, but mostly thought the posts were funny. And what is now my most shocking reaction–I knew I would eat some of those foods. I knew these were the fattiest, greasiest, most bacon covered burgers in existence, but it would taste good, and that’s how I chose what I ate.

Last June, I dropped meat. That combined with my three month old lactose intolerance; I gave up many foods I had spent my whole life with. I wanted my body to be a healthy, fully functional entity. I also don’t want to hurt anything.

A couple of weeks ago, seven months into vegetarianism, I stumbled upon “This is Why You’re Fat” again. My reaction was totally different. I think I even said, “why do these foods exist?!” to the person sitting next to me. I laughed a little this time, and wanted to puke a lot.

What’s even more disturbing? The birthplaces of two of the nastiest foods are in Michigan, one of them, being the world’s largest hamburger in Southgate, only 45 miles out side of Ann Arbor. The burger, created at Mallie’s Sports Bar and Grill weighs in at 185.6 pounds. Not to mention that this restaurant also serves a 10-pound “Monster Burger”, probably ordered on the regular. People love a good challenge, right?

Another question: are we even aware that these foods are eaten right outside of our city? Ann Arbor is a fairly healthy place, but I’m sure similar disgusting entrees could also be found in restaurants here too.

A year ago, I did not care about my health. I tried not to drink pop or overeat, but in the long run, I didn’t care what I was putting in my body as long as it filled me up. I’m proud to say I’ve fallen in love with nutrition. I’m proud to say I’ve changed.

It’s not that hard to fix yourself. Couldn’t everyone want to vomit after looking at “This is Why You’re Fat”? Maybe I’m dreaming, but what’s impossible, anyway?