Obesity Epidemic

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions but most of us really don't think we are obese when in fact we are.  "It must be someone else because I am just not that heavy.  According to the American Heart Association almost 150 million people are overweight in the United States.  Of those 150 million that are overweight about half are considered obese.

There are many factors to consider when discussing obesity.  People simply aren't as active as they once were.  The majority of us at one time "worked with our hands" but now park are fannies on a comfy chair and stare at a computer 8-10 hours per day.  Children have so many sedentary options are their disposal that "going outside to play" seems like an antiquated idea.

Our eating habits simply have not kept pace with our other changes.  My mother-in-law is a great cook and she primary prepares comfort food.  My wife is the youngest of 8 children so you can imagine how much mashed potatoes were prepared for one meal.  Many decades later it is difficult for her to cook only enough food for father-in-law and her.  Adapting to changes is not always easy.

I imagine we have more health clubs today than ever before.  People are signing up for gyms, using Beachbody Products and other at-home programs yet obesity continues to gain traction.  Much of that has to do with ignorance.  Our media has the tendency to hype pseudo science and shun the boring stuff that says spinach, kale, and bok choy are awesome! What's sexier?  "You mean to tell me I can eat chocolate all day long and not impact my cholesterol?"

It's time for us all to take full responsibility for our own health.  No short cuts.  No "pie-in-the-sky" dream.  Eat food, not too much, mostly plants. 

Selah