Obesity Trends And Research
Obesity is a major health concern facing the United States today. In fact it is a worldwide problem impacting people in countries around the globe. Obesity and the many health risks and complications it causes are becoming one of the greatest health crises of the 21st century. The Lap Band and other forms of bariatric surgery for weight loss are increasingly needed to help individuals address the threat of obesity to their health.
A widespread issue
The United States is one of the wealthiest and most progressive countries in the world. Shouldn’t we also be one of the healthiest? Unfortunately, that is increasingly not the case because of the widespread problem of obesity.
Data regarding heights and weights indicate the prevalence of obesity has increased dramatically among Americans over the past 30 years. Two out of three adults are overweight, and one out of three is considered obese. The substantial prevalence of overweight and obese individuals is noted among all ages, genders and races; it is a problem that affects the entire United States.
Even more alarming is that the obesity trend is now beginning in childhood. The Center for Disease Control & Prevention reports that almost 17% of children and teens are obese, with the United States making little progress towards reversing the trend. This epidemic is putting our children on a path toward being the first generation to live shorter lives and be less healthy than their parents.
What’s causing the problem?
While obesity is partly a result of personal choices, there are also numerous trends that are adding to this growing issue:
- At no time in history has our food supply been so dominated by processed foods that are so high in fat, sugar and salt.
- Fresh, nutritious foods are often more expensive than high-calorie foods with less nutritional value.
- We are less active than ever before – driving rather than walking, spending time in front of the television rather than outside and sitting in front of a computer screen rather than in an active job.
- The diets that we use to try to lose weight aren’t always effective and result in weight regain.
Being active when you’re trying to lose weight doesn’t have to mean running a marathon, pumping iron or taking aerobics every day. But to get started, put on your fuzzy slippers.
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