You are considered "obese" when your weight is 20% or more above what is considered normal, or average weight for your height and build. So, for example, a women who is five foot five and average build should weigh approximately 130 pounds. If she weighs 156 or more, she is obese.
In the USA, the consumption of calories increased from 1,542 per day for women in 1971 to 1,877 per day in 2004. The figures for men were 2,450 in 1971 and 2,618 in 2004. Most people would expect this increase in calories to consist of fat - not so! Most of the increased food consumption has consisted of carbohydrates (sugars). Increased consumption of sweetened drinks has contributed significantly to the raised carbohydrate intake of most young American adults over the last three decades. The consumption of fast-foods has tripled over the same period.
It's no wonder we are fat.
It seems to me that we currently have two schools of thought on the subject and they are polar opposites.
The majority of us are struggling with weight issues and will continue to do so. Many will ultimately wind up in the obese category. It is just the path they choose to take.
On the other hand, there is a movement of people who say, "Enough is enough already! We do not have to be an obese nation and I for one will not be obese."
Can you guess which group I'm in?
Yes, the minority group. I think it's high time that us in the minority reach out to those who are losing the weight battle and let them know that they too can join our ranks. It takes effort. It takes time. It takes decication. But it can be done.
It will not be accomplished by putting money into the coffers of fast-food companies, convenience food companies or even the local donut shop. I like a double cheeseburger and fries as much as the next guy (or girl), but I know it is not the way to maintain a healthy weight.
The same goes for soft drinks, sweets, processed foods and packaged snacks. They must be vitually eliminated from the diet in order to avoid the sticky claws of obesity that will reach for you for the rest of your life. You simply cannot keep putting junk into your body and not expect it to stay there in the form of fat deposits.
Until people make a conscious decision to change their eating habits, obesity will continue to snowball, not only in the United States, but worldwide. When 2050 rolls around, it is not going to be pretty.
The next time you have the opportunity to speak to someone who is overweight, offer them your help. Tell them you understand how hard it is but assure them that they too can be a healthy weight. Encourage them to ditch the junk food and embrace a healthy lifestyle.
If we all pitch in and work together, 2050 might not look so bad after all.
