Modern Life Debates: Health, Work, Society, and Finance
Vegetarian Diet: Pros and Cons
Many people have become vegetarians after the increase in problems with certain types of meat, such as mad cow disease, avian flu, and pollution affecting fish. However, like everything, there are advantages and disadvantages to this type of diet.
Advantages of Vegetarianism
- The main advantage of this diet is that fruits and vegetables are a great source of vitamins and minerals.
- When consumed fresh or raw, they retain these properties much more effectively.
Disadvantages of Vegetarianism
- This diet may not provide all necessary nutrients, such as proteins.
- Dining out with friends can be very limiting.
To summarize, in our current society, there are arguably more disadvantages to being a vegetarian. Perhaps the healthiest option lies somewhere in between.
Understanding Obesity: Causes and Solutions
The WHO has estimated that the rate of obesity has increased considerably in the last 10 years. This may be due to several causes.
- Firstly, recent studies indicate that one reason for the increase in obesity is the prevalence of vending machines in most schools, offering items poor in nutrients and high in calories.
- Secondly, approximately half of meals are consumed outside the home, with many coming from fast-food establishments. “Year after year, we have become an increasingly sedentary society,” stated Dr. Smith, a WHO representative. A few years ago, people used to walk more and engage in more sports. However, today, children spend too many hours in front of the television or computer.
To summarize, educating the public about healthy nutrition and exercise is essential. Additionally, promoting physical activity in schools is also crucial.
Government Role in Food Choices
I believe that the state cannot prohibit certain types of food, but it does have the responsibility to educate and inform the general public to help them acquire healthier eating habits.
- Firstly, I think it is necessary for the government to promote the daily intake of fruits and vegetables in our diets, discourage the abuse of fast food, and encourage more traditional home cooking.
- Secondly, in the long term, the state would save money if the population became healthier. This would reduce public spending on diseases caused by unbalanced diets and junk food, such as high cholesterol or cardiovascular diseases.
To summarize, I believe it would be impossible for any government to prohibit the consumption of certain types of food, as this would be a violation of individual rights. However, some control is obviously necessary to prevent unhealthy food from being sold on the market.
Assessing Your Healthy Eating Habits
I believe I have healthy eating habits and do not need to change them, although there are some things I could improve if I wanted my diet to be totally healthy.
- Firstly, it is true that I try to eat both fruit and vegetables every day. However, I normally only consume one or two pieces of fruit. According to the latest studies published by Health Magazine, the appropriate amount is at least three pieces a day.
- Secondly, I generally do not eat whole grain bread or other whole grains. Once again, experts recommend daily fiber intake because it is good for the body.
To summarize, I think my diet is balanced since I try to eat in a varied way, although it is difficult because one has to adapt to the food available in the barracks.
Fast Food: Advantages and Disadvantages
Food is a necessity of life, so constant concern for what we eat is natural. In this essay, I will analyze the pros and cons of fast food.
Advantages of Fast Food
- Firstly, the main advantage is time-saving. Due to work, people arrive home tired and do not feel like cooking.
- Secondly, fast food offers dishes of different flavors and cultures, such as American hamburgers, Italian pizzas, or Mexican tacos, among many others.
Disadvantages of Fast Food
- On the other hand, the main drawback is that, in general, fast foods are high in fat and contain chemical additives harmful to our health.
- Scientists from the University of Biology have concluded that people who habitually consume these foods are 55% more likely to develop cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, etc., than those who do not.
To summarize, I believe that fast food should only be consumed when time is a priority. Otherwise, home cooking must be encouraged.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Sports Participation
Nowadays, people often think that sports only serve to improve physical appearance. This is not entirely true. In this essay, I will analyze some of the most important benefits, as well as the advantages and disadvantages, that sports practice entails.
Benefits of Sports
- Firstly, according to the latest publications from Journal Salud, sports practice reduces the risk of suffering from diseases such as overweight, high cholesterol, and obesity by more than 60%.
- Secondly, scientists state that it helps balance both our body and mind, reducing stress and increasing mental abilities such as memory and concentration.
- Finally, the famous psychologist Ana Álvarez argues in her latest article that sports have the power to fill our minds with positive thoughts.
Disadvantages of Sports
- On the other hand, sports also imply some disadvantages. Firstly, sports take time, so you must be able to organize all your tasks.
- Secondly, it sometimes requires money, especially if you want to go to the gym.
- Finally, if you play sports, you are more likely to suffer injuries or cause long-term damage.
To summarize, I believe that sports practice increases values such as courage, discipline, and the spirit of sacrifice, among others.
My Favorite Sport: Basketball’s Appeal
Basketball is one of the best-known sports in the world. It is my favorite sport, and in this essay, I will discuss some aspects I like about it.
- Firstly, it is a sport that promotes teamwork. This can help foster lifelong friendships as it encourages communication and cohesion.
- Secondly, basketball is a sport where simply by observing, you can learn different movements to improve your game. My favorite player is Kobe Bryant. He is a flexible player whose movements are captivating.
- Finally, the latest publications by the prestigious Salud magazine state that this sport helps increase skills such as confidence, security, and concentration by 30%.
In summary, basketball promotes interaction and cooperation. And, although people see basketball as a fun activity, for me, basketball is a passion, a great game to watch and play.
Athlete Salaries: A Discussion
Why does a person who is good at kicking a ball earn more in a week than a doctor who helps fight diseases throughout their life? In this essay, I will address the most important points of this topic.
- Firstly, some people argue that football affects millions of people every day. Actually, there is no scientific evidence that your life will change if your sports team wins or loses. However, an epidemiologist who can predict the spread of a serious disease and prevent it from reaching pandemic levels would change the lives of many people, although they may never receive the same financial recognition.
- On the other hand, athletes often spend many hours training. This means they have a tight schedule and often do not have time to clean their house or take their children to school. Because of this, they have to use their money to pay the people who work for them.
To summarize, only a small percentage of the world population can meet the high standards athletes achieve. It is a matter of supply and demand. If there were many people running very fast or playing basketball exceptionally well, the pay would not be as good. The more people see your game, the more money you will receive. It’s simple.
Machines Replacing People: A Discussion
Should machines replace people? I think not, for different reasons that I will analyze below.
- Firstly, if machines performed many day-to-day tasks, many people could lose their jobs. This would cause great chaos because people, if unemployed, could lose their homes and would have to emigrate to other countries to live, weakening the country.
- Secondly, when a machine is used without supervision, it can generate a failure that affects the final product, leading to large losses for the company if not discovered in time.
- Finally, a recent study by the Ministry of Health at Work has published that working with machines increases stress by 40% in workers because sometimes the machines do not work or operate extremely slowly, and nothing can be done.
In conclusion, I believe that machines should not be used to carry out human work because machines cannot think. Only people can make right or wrong decisions and perform proper supervision of tasks.
Working From Home: Pros and Cons
Nowadays, working from home is becoming an increasingly common option for both employees and employers. Next, I will analyze some of the advantages and disadvantages of working from home.
Advantages of Working From Home
- Firstly, you can save money on transportation and avoid the stress of rush hour.
- Secondly, according to the prestigious Journal Health, having the opportunity to eat at home allows us to maintain better eating habits, along with a savings of more than 30% on the monthly grocery bill.
Disadvantages of Working From Home
- On the other hand, there are also disadvantages. Firstly, you must organize your own time, which means you need two essential qualities that not all people possess: self-discipline and good organization.
- Secondly, psychology experts do not recommend working from home for people who are not very sociable, as a lack of communication can make them more isolated.
In my opinion, it is better to have two separate spaces defined for different tasks: our house for rest and our workplace for our work responsibilities.
Working While Studying: Benefits and Challenges
Nowadays, some students are forced to work for two main reasons: either to have their own money or to pay for their whims. In this essay, I will explain the pros and cons of this topic.
Advantages of Working While Studying
- The first advantage is that students can earn money. Starting with a part-time job, students can cover a portion of their living costs and, at the same time, alleviate the financial burden on their parents.
- Secondly, another advantage is that it can help students develop greater responsibility and a sense of duty. They will have to get used to having a job and attending college simultaneously.
Disadvantages of Working While Studying
- On the other hand, there are also some disadvantages. Firstly, a lack of time to concentrate on studies can lead to affected grades.
- Secondly, students may experience stress if they do not have enough time to study.
To summarize, nothing is perfect. We should all think twice before taking a part-time job, because we cannot ignore our other duties.
Being Your Own Boss: Rewards and Challenges
In recent years, due to the crisis, the number of people who have decided to create their own company has decreased considerably. Like everything, being your own boss has advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of Being Your Own Boss
- Firstly, the main advantage is that you do not work under any supervision and can determine your working hours yourself.
- Secondly, another advantage is that the fruits of your labor will be all yours, because you own the vineyard.
Disadvantages of Being Your Own Boss
- On the other hand, the first disadvantage is that you may have to take on a significant financial risk. For example, if you need to raise money to get started, you may need a guarantee for the loan.
- The second drawback is that it will be hard for you to go on vacation, take a day off, or even stay home sick without losing income.
In my opinion, and after all things considered, it seems to me that self-employment can be a very gratifying experience, although not without difficulties.
Why I Chose to Become a Sergeant
The first time I considered joining the army, I was 17 years old. It was 2004, and I went to the recruitment center located on Fray Luis Street. I decided to become a sergeant for different reasons that I will explain in this essay.
- Firstly, I decided that I wanted to be a sergeant because I loved being able to contribute to creating an environment of good judgment, positivity, team building, and positive interactions among personnel and our future soldiers.
- Secondly, I believe that I have demonstrated my capacity for leadership as I accept responsibilities and adapt to an organization and a world in constant change.
- Finally, thirteen years ago I joined the army because I wanted to show my appreciation for our great nation, and today I would like to have the opportunity to do something even bigger.
To summarize, I love serving my country; our country. Now I feel that I am leading from the front, something in which I strive to excel.
My Favorite Story: A Tale of Loyalty
It’s hard for me to decide which book or movie I liked the most. However, in this essay, I will talk about a story that touched my heart.
The story is based on the real-life tale of an Akita Inu and tells the dramatic story of a faithful dog until his death.
The film develops the life of this puppy that was sent from Japan to the United States but escaped when his cage fell at a train station. A teacher found him and took him home.
One morning, the teacher went to work, and Hachi followed him to the train station, waiting for his owner to return from work. He kept doing this every day.
One day, while giving a class, the teacher suffered a heart attack and died suddenly. The dog, however, remained waiting for its owner at the train station until his own death nine years later.
In my opinion, stories like this demonstrate that the dog is truly man’s best friend.
Protecting Our Environment: Daily Actions
Problems such as global warming make us worry about how we care for the environment. In this essay, I will analyze this issue.
- Firstly, we can contribute to environmental improvement through easy day-to-day actions such as saving water by taking showers instead of baths, turning off the tap when brushing our teeth, etc.
- Secondly, there are also things we can do to save electricity. For example, we can turn off the lights every time we leave a room and use energy-saving light bulbs and appliances.
- Thirdly, in our city, there are recycling bins that we must use to recycle our waste paper, glass, and plastic.
- Finally, keeping parks clean and using public transportation are also essential to reduce pollution. Vida y Salud magazine has published that by attending to these small things alone, we will contribute to a 40% reduction in pollution.
To summarize, protecting the environment is a task in which we should all be involved.
My Favorite TV Programs and Why
There are several programs that I like, although I cannot watch them as much as I would like. In this essay, I will talk about some of the ones I like the most.
- Firstly, I love MasterChef. It is a program in which several candidates study at a prestigious cooking academy and once a week face several tests to apply the knowledge learned. The contestant who cannot present their plate in suitable conditions for the judges is expelled.
- Another program that makes me laugh a lot is Factor X. In this program, there are very particular people, both with and without talent.
- Finally, Nightmare in the Kitchen is also one of my favorites. Firstly, because I admire Alberto Chicote as a professional, and secondly, because this program helps many people make their businesses work again.
In conclusion, I love programs that make me laugh and those that can teach me something about cooking, which is my passion.
Parental Control of Children’s TV Time
I believe that parents are primarily responsible for the development and education of their children. In this essay, I will develop this topic by discussing the aspects I consider most important.
- Firstly, I think it is absolutely necessary for parents to control the number of hours their children watch television. In the same way that parents ensure their children’s diet is balanced, they must also control the quality and quantity of the television programs they watch.
- Secondly, if this option were left in the hands of the children, I am sure that they would watch television excessively, to the point of neglecting friends, homework, and other activities essential for their personal development.
- Finally, we know that children spend more hours in front of the television now than they did in past generations, so we should ask ourselves if we are doing them a favor by letting them decide how much television they want to watch.
To summarize, I think there must be a balance and control so that watching TV never leads to the abandonment of more important tasks for their education and development.
Television: Positive and Negative Impacts
It is hard to imagine our lives without television because it has become so popular that it is now an essential part of our daily routine. In this essay, I will address the points I consider most important on this topic.
Positive Aspects of Television
- Firstly, one of the most positive aspects is that television, in addition to being the main means of entertainment, is the fastest means of obtaining information. Through it, we can see crucial world events as they are taking place.
Negative Aspects of Television
- On the other hand, people seem to rely too much on television for their entertainment, neglecting other hobbies such as sports, meeting friends, or eating.
- As a result, people, and especially children, are leading a more sedentary lifestyle and socializing less effectively.
To summarize, television can have many advantages if we learn how to use it intelligently and moderately, but it can harm children if we do not control its use.
Impulse Buying: Why We Buy What We Don’t Need
I must admit that sometimes I buy things I do not need, but who doesn’t? In this essay, I will explain the aspects I consider most important on this topic.
- Firstly, in general and throughout the year, I only buy items that I need. But when summer arrives and shop windows display their “SALE” signs, I cannot avoid going shopping with my friends.
- Secondly, it is true that I do not need many of the things I buy during this season of discounts, but I think the temptation is hard to resist when you see a beautiful skirt or blouse at half the original price.
- Finally, I think one should take advantage of discounts to buy products at a more acceptable price.
To summarize, I think that excessive spending is a mistake, but it is not too much to enjoy once in a while by buying something that is not strictly needed but can bring enjoyment.
Gender Inequality: A Persistent Challenge
Despite the great changes in the last two centuries, I am afraid that there is still inequality between men and women. In this essay, I will address some of the points I consider most important.
- Firstly, I have to say that, fortunately, the differences between genders in many fields are not as great as they used to be. Recent studies by Socialite Magazine have revealed that these inequalities have been reduced by 40% in the last 10 years.
- However, despite the fact that many governments are trying to reduce these differences, in some countries, inequality is reflected in different aspects, such as wages, the burden of domestic work, or childcare.
- Secondly, in other countries, gender differences are even greater, such as the lack of access to education for women or the absence of women in political roles.
To summarize, I think that with luck, this will change in the future, and we will no longer need to discuss this issue.
My Ideal Historical Era: Early 19th Century USA
It is not easy to choose a historical period to live in, as I believe that all of them can have advantages and disadvantages. In this essay, I will explain one of the periods I would have liked to experience.
- Firstly, if I had to choose an attractive era to live in, I would probably like to experience the exciting events that took place in the United States at the beginning of the 19th century.
- It was a time when the United States had recently achieved independence from the British Empire. This must have been an era of great changes, where new political, economic, and social decisions were made.
- Also, it was a moment of extraordinary political figures like Thomas Jefferson or Abraham Lincoln, and of magical writers like Walt Whitman with his book, O Captain! My Captain!, or Herman Melville with his famous novel Moby-Dick.
To summarize, it was a beautiful stage where ordinary people had to take initiative and start new projects so as not to be left behind in a moment of transition.
Fan Behavior Towards Celebrities: A Discussion
Today, we can see at many events people waiting for days in the front row to see their idol, as well as people who pay a high cost to get an entry ticket or an autograph. In this essay, I will talk about the aspects I consider most important on this topic.
- Firstly, at some events, we can see enthusiastic fans on television who are desperately waiting for their idols to appear, for example, at football training sessions, concerts, airports, movie premieres, etc. I have to say that I consider this attitude an exaggerated reaction of their feelings towards their idols.
- Secondly, personally, I do not like to see teenagers crying for famous people they do not even know and who may not even be worthy of their affection.
To summarize, I understand that fans have great admiration for their idols, but I do not share their frantic adoration.
Traveling Abroad for Vacation: Pros and Cons
Nowadays, traveling is a very popular pastime. Some people travel abroad for sports, and others simply to rest. In this essay, I will analyze both the advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of Traveling Abroad
- Firstly, it is clear that you will have the opportunity to gain a lot of information about other people, religions, and cultures, for example, when tasting exotic foods or visiting new places.
- Secondly, recent studies from Tourism magazine have shown that traveling to unknown places increases the feeling of happiness by 40% due to the different sensations it evokes.
Disadvantages of Traveling Abroad
- On the other hand, traveling to other countries also has its drawbacks. The main problem is communication. If you do not know the language well, you cannot explain what you need to the locals.
- Another important problem is that each state has its own laws, and many travelers are unaware of them. Because of this, we may find ourselves in a dangerous situation.
In my opinion, everyone should travel as much as they can, but they should inform themselves about the laws and rules of conduct beforehand to avoid problems and enjoy a wonderful rest.
Wars: Evolution, Causes, and Consequences
Wars show us the worst of human beings, with the destruction of innocent people and our world. In this essay, I will discuss the most important points regarding the evolution and causes of war over the centuries.
- Firstly, the 21st century has seen the development of weapons controlled by computerized systems, with pinpoint accuracy and a million-fold increase in destructive power compared to previous wars.
- Secondly, according to the prestigious Tierra magazine, wars, from Nagasaki and Hiroshima to Iraq and Afghanistan, continue to grow without respite. The irony of the new millennium is that technological improvement and scientific progress have given us more options, but they have not taken away our great human defect: fear of the other.
- Finally, the main reasons for fighting wars are to demonstrate superiority, competition to dominate the world, and economic survival.
To summarize, humans must avoid wars at all costs, as the only way we can protect our lives and guarantee stability in our country is through tolerance and mutual respect.
La Tomatina: Spain’s Unique Tomato Festival
Both festivals and Spanish festivals attract the attention of thousands of tourists from all over the world. One of the most characteristic events is La Tomatina. In this essay, I will talk about the most important points of this festival.
- Firstly, La Tomatina is a celebration that takes place annually in Spain. The main peculiarity of this festival is that its participants throw tomatoes at each other.
- Secondly, it is celebrated on the last Wednesday of August in Buñol, a Spanish city, to honor the patron saints of the city: San Luis Beltrán and the Virgen de los Desamparados.
- Finally, according to the prestigious Tourism magazine, it is considered the largest gastronomic fight in the world. In 2017, around 40,000 people participated in this event, where approximately 100 tons of tomatoes were used in the fight, valued at around €35,000.
To summarize, it can be said that La Tomatina is like an “anti-war” campaign where people of different nationalities and faiths have fun replacing guns with tomatoes.
City vs. Countryside Living: Which is Better?
Nowadays, many people prefer to live in cities rather than in the countryside because they think that large cities can offer many advantages and opportunities for a better life. In my opinion, living in a quiet countryside setting is better due to several reasons, such as the following:
- Firstly, living in the countryside helps you to be closer to nature, which is obviously very good for your health. Houses in the countryside are surrounded by trees, flowers, etc., and they are open to nature, where you can breathe fresh air and enjoy a quiet life.
- Secondly, the cost of living in the countryside is lower than in cities. People in the countryside can produce their own food, for example: vegetables, fruits, fish, meat, etc.
- Finally, life in the countryside is easier than in the city. It seems that time passes more slowly, which eliminates a great deal of tension experienced by people living in cities, who tend to always be in a hurry.
To summarize, there are always two sides to a coin. Living in the countryside or living in large cities each has its own advantages and disadvantages. The choice will depend on what you prefer.
Renting vs. Buying a Home: Key Considerations
Nowadays, buying or renting a house is one of the most important financial decisions to be made in life. In this essay, I will explain the most important points of this topic.
Advantages of Renting
- Firstly, if you rent a house and something breaks or needs repair, it is as easy as calling the owner to solve it.
- Secondly, you have more flexibility, and most rental agreements are at least 1 year. Therefore, if your job requires you to move frequently, renting may be the best alternative.
Disadvantages of Renting
- On the other hand, renting also has disadvantages. Firstly, you are not investing in something that will later be yours, so it may seem like you are throwing money away.
- Another disadvantage is that, as a tenant, when the contract ends, you may be forced to leave the house, sometimes even before you are ready.
To summarize, I think the best option is to buy a house because if you buy it, the house will always be yours.
Online Dating: Advantages and Disadvantages
Nowadays, the internet has changed our lives. Many people prefer online dating because of its numerous benefits. In this essay, I will discuss both the advantages and disadvantages of this way of connecting.
Advantages of Online Dating
- Firstly, the most important advantage is its ability to meet people instantly. A couple of clicks with the mouse and a computer keyboard are more than enough.
- Secondly, finding someone we like is much easier, since many online dating sites offer various types of personality tests and matching services.
Disadvantages of Online Dating
- On the other hand, connecting online can also have drawbacks. Firstly, when you meet the other person, you may not like them physically.
- Secondly, communication on the internet can have an artificial and emotionless quality.
- Finally, you need internet access, and not everyone has the money to pay for it.
To summarize, if you are one of those people who prefer to meet in person, the traditional method is best.
Bank Loans: Benefits and Considerations
Nowadays, bank loans have become a primary option to finance a business, a house, or any significant asset. In this essay, I will explain the points I consider most important on this topic.
Advantages of Bank Loans
- Firstly, the main advantage of borrowing money is that it allows you to buy something that would be too expensive to pay for in advance, like a car or a house.
Disadvantages of Bank Loans
- On the other hand, having access to a large amount of money through loans can lead to excessive spending, which in turn can make it increasingly difficult to control yourself.
- Finally, according to recent studies by Economy Magazine, it is recommended to conduct a preliminary study of the different options available, since each bank offers specific conditions.
In my opinion, bank loans are the best option to acquire assets on a large scale. However, we must be careful both in our choices and regarding the conditions.
Borrowing from Family: Pros and Cons
Almost all new companies require some type of external financing to take off. As a result, many people are forced to turn to family and friends for help. Below are some of the many pros and cons regarding this topic.
Advantages of Borrowing from Family
- Firstly, the main advantage of borrowing from your loved ones is that you do not have to go through the same financial obstacles to be approved. Because they are anxious to help you reach your goals, your friends and relatives will often lend you money if banks do not.
- Secondly, the best advantage is that it can be achieved with a minimum interest rate or even zero.
Disadvantages of Borrowing from Family
- On the other hand, the drawback of owing money to your loved ones is that it can open an unwanted dialogue about your spending habits.
To summarize, borrowing from family is not always a good option and can end up damaging the relationship if it does not work out well.
Factors Influencing a Movie’s Success
Nowadays, we can see new movies coming out almost every week. In this essay, I will talk about the factors that influence a movie’s success and its consequences.
- Firstly, I think that the quality of a film depends mainly on the feelings or sensations it is able to awaken in the spectators.
- Secondly, the plot and the storyline are fundamental to getting the viewer hooked or, on the contrary, bored.
- Finally, according to a survey conducted by the prestigious Cine magazine, more than 70% of respondents said that a good movie was determined by its actors, the plot, and, of course, the special effects.
To summarize, I believe that determining whether a movie is good or bad varies depending on the person who sees it, because we do not all like the same things.
Saving vs. Spending Money: A Balanced View
Nowadays, we can find two different approaches to money: saving or spending. In this essay, I will explain the points I consider most important on this topic.
Advantages of Saving Money
- Firstly, the main advantage of saving money is that it provides security. We always think that money in the bank will help us in difficult times in life.
- Secondly, it is also a way of planning for the future. If you spend everything, then you are more likely to face financial difficulties in the future as you cannot deal with problems that may arise spontaneously.
Disadvantages of Saving Money
- However, there are also some disadvantages to saving money. Firstly, people who save money in excess do not end up enjoying life.
- Secondly, psychology experts have shown that spending money can improve our mood by 60%.
To summarize, I believe that balance is key in this matter. You have to spend and save according to individual needs.