On slimming

I read with interest the articles on slimming and diets (Jan. 19, 1997). Some very sensible points were discussed which should encourage people to be more careful with how they spend their money and look after their bodies.

However, there were some rather serious errors in one of the tables (Nutritive Food Value) accompanying the article.

I was quite astounded to read that chocolate candy has fewer calories than cabbage and that a cup of coffee is a mine of energy - being a runner I look for energy drinks.

At university, albeit some time ago, I did cover physiology, including dietary surveys in my studies and I really must object to that table. Some people may be dreadfully misled and start to eat totally the wrong things in an effort to control their weight. It should also be pointed out that many of the foods listed, with an incorrect calorie count, do actually contain many other vital requirements such as minerals and vitamins.

Some form of retraction or correction of this table really should be printed in The Jakarta Post.

AUSTIN HUTCHEON

Samarinda, East Kalimantan

Note: We apologize for the error. The correct table is printed today on this page.

-- Editor