When America emerged from the Great Depression, it was in many ways a different country than it had been before the 30s. The New Deal, World War II and shifts in cultural and political thought modernized the nation.

So what will a post-War on Terror, post-recession America look like? Well, it could be thinner.

I’ve heard a lot about recession diets. This, however, could work the other way, since more people may be turning to fast food and low-cost alcohol.

So how can metaphorical belt-tightening lead to literally smaller pants? Public transportation is one option.

I’ve been seeing more and more articles lately advocating for stimulus spending on buses, light-rail and high speed trains. Many of these articles point out that public transportation frequently involves more walking, which can lead to weight-loss and a more active lifestyle. It’s also environmentally friendly.

What about you? Are you taking small steps like this to cut down on carbon, cash and calories? Should you?

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