Fitness/health questions which always raise debates...

Hi i've had quite a break from here (nearly a year) - too much been happening and its been a busy busy time. I'm still writing weekly for the paper and chat on the radio, and as always researching various topics on lifestyle and beauty.

Im lucky enough to come across some amazing professionals in my line of work, especially fitness coaches/nutritionists basically experts whom I admire and respect due to their dedication and knowledge of their chosen fields.  However, it does seem that there are some undivided answers to the following questions and I would like to ask anyone to leave comments on their view. It's not a who's right or wrong debate, just that I value various opinions. So first up.

Should children use free weights?  It appears that many schools have gyms in which free weights are part of physical education.  Should there be an age limit to which they can start?

Sugar or Sweetners? Which is worse for health? I find lots of features how sweeteners are better for losing weight (despite the fact they have been proven to make you crave sugary foods), but for health which is better?  Also honey, fructose/agave all these syrups are sugar, is there one better than the other?

What exactly is the recommended exercise guidelines for adults?  I always thought 30 minutes of activity a day, but is this walking, jogging, or 30 minutes of vigorous activity?

Is it better to go for an endurance jog/walk or short sprint/walk?

What exactly are the health benefits of margarine? One composition away from plastic. Are we not better off using full fat butter? incidentally I have use lactose free for my son (including soya margarine).

If you have a cold guidelines always say you can exercise if the pain is from the neck upwards. What do PTs think? If I have a cold the last thing I want to do is exercise even though I do, but surely it makes your defences lower?

Views on orthotics? Necessary for foot gait or should we be focussing on strengthening our muscles to correct our foot gaits (I do use them as pronate and find it helps my knee pain)….

Caveman diet/Paleo/macrobiotic/5:2 what are your views on these diets? Im of the opinion the 5:2 is not good from research regarding hormone fluctuations?

Thats all for now folks - please leave comments and if okay with you I may print them in the paper - leave your details too especially if you specialise in this field! Thank you.!
Molly
PS I will start blogging more soon!