There is a very interesting story making its way through mainstream and social media about an Iowa school teacher named John Cisna, who with the help of his students, over the course of 90 days, lost 37 pounds by eating a balanced diet from McDonald’s and walking 45 minutes per day.  To say that the masses are atwitter about this good news story is an understatement.  Here are the facts, courtesy of the Los Angeles Times:

He limited himself to 2,000 calories a day, and tried to stick to the recommended dietary allowances for carbs, protein and fat.

Here's what an average day looked like: oatmeal, egg whites and 1% milk for breakfast, and a salad for lunch. At dinner, he let loose a bit, enjoying Big Macs, and Quarter Pounders. He indulged in dessert, too, enjoying sundaes and ice cream cones.

He exercised every day as well, walking 45 minutes a day.

By Day 90, Cisna said he was down 37 pounds.

When it comes to the issue of moderation, we here at Sip & Savor probably sound like a broken record.  But this story is a perfect example of the importance of balancing calories consumed through all food and drinks with calories expended through physical activity.  We commend Mr. Cisna for teaching his students, through his actions, this important lesson, and we challenge all of you to remember it in your daily lives.  As USA Today wrote: “… it's not where you eat, but what you eat (and how much you exercise) that matters.”