Why The U.S. Is A Fat Country

It is quite understandable how America became overweight. Fast food chains and a more sedentary society can vouch for that. Studies show that 300,000 die from weight-related illnesses each year, making “fat” the United States’ number two cause of preventable deaths.

Of the American population, 59 percent of men and 49 percent of women are overweight. This puts our citizens at risk for heart disease, diabetes, hypertension among others diseases, as well as early death. Studies tell us that dairy products such as milk, cheeses, ice cream and yogurt, are not as good for us as we are lead to believe. These products are very high in fat content, even the two percent, low-fat and non-fat products carry more fat and/or sugar that we probably need to intake with the rest of our daily foods. We should be consuming more good carbohydrates.

Obesity is caused by consuming more calories than the body needs or can burn. It is a fact that a few people are obese for medical reasons. The BMI (body mass index) of a person, when measured, should be under 25. This recommended weight standard will help let us know if we begin to get overweight or getting over into obesity (BMI of 30+). When people are working with physicians, other factors come into play sometimes besides diet. This depend on the patient and his/her physical condition.

Lifestyles today, eating fast foods for many meals, only adds to our national problem. Children with weight problems grow up to be adults with continuing weight problems. United States citizens often have life threatening conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, etc. Is there a solution? Does anyone have the will power to consume less fattening foods? Many do, but most do not. It seems to be that cutting back from the table and exercise will get the people slim again.