This letter is in response to Shantay Sirko's blatantly ignorant comments on healthy eating ("Healthy Eating Overrated," Oct. 23).

I wonder, Ms. Sirko, if you have been aware of that fact that the United States is currently home to one of the unhealthiest populations in the entire world. With one in every four adults overweight or obese, it is no surprise that our country spends more than $3 billion a year in medical costs associated with avoidable, health-related diseases.

Of course it is your "God-given American right" to eat junk food and not exercise; people in our society obviously have no problem giving themselves things they feel they so rightfully deserve. So go ahead, eat another deep-fried twinkie, salt your beef jerky, eat poprocks and drink liters of coke all while watching hours of reality television.

Just remember that in 10 to 15 years from now, when you have high blood cholesterol, uncontrolled Type II Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, clogged arteries and are contemplating gastric bypass surgery, I'll be the dietitian you will have to pay good money in order to receive medical and health advice.