Why is America’s Obesity Epidemic Getting Worse?

“CHANGING THE MINDSET”

by Julia Jefferson, ©2016

(Oct. 19, 2016) — Obesity has become a huge issue in America. The statistics are chilling: Approximately seven out of ten Americans are overweight or obese. Over the last four decades, obesity has doubled in adults and tripled in children. No state has an obesity rate below 20%. There is a higher incidence of obesity in African-Americans and Hispanics, and more women than men are overweight or obese. The problem has even extended to the military – historically known as a bastion of fitness – where about one in 13 is overweight.

Obesity contributes to a host of health problems, such as diabetes, sleep apnea, heart problems, mobility issues, depression, some cancers, and early mortality. Overweight individuals can also face discrimination and bullying that can cause depression. Of course, these increased healthcare issues mean higher healthcare costs.

Some may think the concern over obesity has arisen due to doctors identifying it more often, as opposed to an overall increase in the condition. That doesn’t alter the fact that the number of overweight individuals is too high, or that serious health issues are more likely to arise.

There is no simple solution to the obesity issue. Those looking for solutions need to be scientific and compassionate as they address the question, why is America’s obesity epidemic getting worse?

Diet and movement

There is a simple cause of obesity – consuming too many calories that are not burned up by the body. The American diet is a significant contributor to the population’s weight problems because daily calorie intake is too high. Portion sizes are larger than ever, and Americans eat out more often. The population has become addicted to high-calorie foods and sugar-laden beverages.

Changing this entrenched relationship with food takes education. Programs about food choices and the risks of obesity need to occur from a young age, and not just to already-overweight persons. Schools and workplaces need to adopt consistently healthy alternatives for meals and snacks. Restaurant owners, especially chains, can make a major contribution to obesity reduction by offering smart portions.

Partnering with the dietary change is lifestyle change. Americans simply do not move enough. Blame it on technology, but physical activity has taken a back seat to gaming and binge TV watching. This is especially concerning for children, who are learning to think that sedentary lifestyles are normal. A special problem for Americans is the lack of comprehensive public transportation and the design of communities, which make citizens dependent on cars instead of walking or bicycling.

To bring about change, the American population needs to shift its focus to exercise. Instead of cutting back physical education and play, schools need to be encouraging and sponsoring healthy activities for children. In the workplace, employers can provide gym facilities or offer payment of gym memberships. At home, adults need to put down the gaming console and put on some sneakers. Parents especially need to model healthy behavior for children.

Aside from educational programs and healthy lifestyle opportunities provided to the population, individuals need to take responsibility for their eating and exercise habits. With the availability of information online, no one can claim there is a lack of information on healthy diet choices.

For those who have been sedentary and fear the aches and pains of an exercise routine, some great products support exercise efforts. For example, Tommie Copper compression clothing can help to relieve muscle aches or provide back support. Known for compression clothing that supports the body and helps in faster recovery, Tommie Copper assists users in their efforts to establish and maintain healthy exercise routines. You can get the latest updates on Tommie Copper products by following @tommiecopper on Twitter.

Other factors

Stress can definitely be a cause of obesity. When someone deals with stress by eating ‘comfort foods,’ he or she reinforces food as an unhealthy means of dealing with emotional issues. Stress may also cause limited motivation to pursue healthy behaviors.

Another factor in weight is genetics. It is not a foregone conclusion that someone with overweight parents will become obese, but it can combine negatively with environmental influences. Finally, a lack of sleep has been shown as a risk factor for obesity.

Combatting these factors means focusing on health, instead of climbing the corporate ladder. It means choosing time with family and good rest over material things. It entails creating an active environment instead of one dominated by devices. In short, it means changing the mindset that leads to overeating and lack of movement.

The obesity problem in America is not unstoppable. Initiatives to make school lunches more healthy and incorporate wellness programs in workplaces are gaining popularity. Obesity may seem to be on the rise, but America is fighting back against this epidemic.