Obesity In America

Obesity in America has been a growing epidemic for many years and the numbers just keep going up. The amount of fat that a person has is measured by their BMI, or body mass index. The BMI that a person has is calculated by weight and height. In order for someone to be considered obese, they need to have a BMI of over 30 percent.

Did you know that two out of every three adults, along with one out of every six children are considered to be overweight? In order to be classified as being overweight, you have to have at least ten percent more weight than you should medically have. If you are considered to be overweight, this can lead to serious health problems such as stroke, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and even cancer.

So, what is the main contributor to obesity, you ask? The main contributor factor in obesity is taking in more calories than what your body needs. Consuming more calories without the proper amount of exercise is where many people end up becoming overweight and before long, they find themselves obese. There are so many fast food options that are readily available and for some, it just doesn't pay them to cook at home. Another factor that sometimes plays a role in obesity are prescription medications such as steroids and certain antidepressants.

Although calorie intake is the main reason for obesity, there are several other factors to be considered. Some people have a tendency to gain weight due to psychological issues, medical reasons, will power, etc. Researchers are finding out that obesity may even be in your genes. Keeping a close count on your calorie intake and a regular exercise regimen is a great start to living a healthier life.