Why are so many americans FAT?

Question

I used to think it was a myth, but its actually soooo true?

I WASNT SERIOUS ITS A CHEAPSHOT AT FAT AMERICANS

Answer 1

Fast food and slack.

Answer 2

I think some of it has to do with the fact that so many Americans have jobs that take up so much of their lives that they're basically sitting in an office all day and not getting any exercise. Then, when they get too stressed about their jobs, what do they turn to but comforting junk food? At least that's what I seem to notice about the overweight people I know.

When I read about or watch TV about other countries, it seems to me that their people aren't such workaholics and are more laid-back. Well done, well done....

But please don't stereotype ALL of us as fat. Some people are very mean about that. You are still more likely to meet a thin American than a fat American.

Answer 3

Only 20 percent of Americans are fat. Yes, it has been an increase in the past 25 years. But, over here in the US, we are trying to make some changes. I hate all the fatties too and many people are trying to lose weight.
Many fast food restaurants are offering healthier meals... ( about time ). And more kids meals at fast food places offer fruit and milk.
TV commercials encourage children to eat healthy and get active.
NOT all Americans are fat. If you actually go there, you will notice that not all of us are fat. I am not fat.

Answer 4

It's a myriad of reasons. The biggest one is portion size. We eat gigantic portions of food. We can have french fries and candy bars, just not the supersized french fries and king size candy bars most Americans indulge in.

Lack of exercise. Everything is often so far you have to drive to and Americans work more hours than they ever did so a quick, unhealthy lunch and sitting behind a desk for 8 hours contribute.

Also, prices! seriously. I went to a hospital cafeteria awhile back and it cost me 16 cents per OUNCE for a salad. I found out I could gotten a stack of fries for $1.50. And this was at the hospital. The place where you are supposed to be able to get healthy food. It's much harder to spend the extra money on expensive fruits and veggies when you have the light bill and rent due and they have a buy one get one free sale on the greasy chips.

Answer 5

I have a slightly different answer to offer you. I am European, and used to live in the US, and gained 70 pounds of weight in 6 years without changing my European diet at all. And I know it's because in America, you pretty much need to take the car everytime you go somewhere. In Europe, cars are useless, so we walk everywhere. Your average European walks 2miles a day, whether he wants to or not, because of the use of public transport etc. In America, you drag yourself from the couch into the car, park in fron to f the office, drag yourself from the car onto your chair, stay till five, then do the whole thing backwards. There's just no physical activity possible in the American lifestyle, unless you go and work out - which also requires you to get into the car and drive somewhere. In Europe, I used to go for runs from my doorstep.

Answer 6

Simple: our lives are too easy (concerning matters of survival) - we sit on our butts and eat.

And we are a repressed people... food is a form of emotional release for some people.

And we spend time in front of a computer screen answering questions when movement would be more beneficial...

Sincerely: Native North American

Answer 7

It's not just America. Many nations where fewer people have to work hard for a living and can afford to buy unhealthy food / snacks are overweight. The UK has this problem and China is getting it as well. Even Japan has a few people, but obesity isn't nearly a problem there as it is elsewhere because they still pressure daily exercises and keeping thin.

Answer 8

Lots of cheap, greasy, genetically altered, hormonally enhanced, foods+ x-box 360 + digital cable = fat Americans.

Answer 9

Our capatialistic culture motivated by instant gratification.
Our lives are so busy, sometimes fast food is the most convenient option. And exercise takes time out of the day, so many people ignore it.

Answer 10

The British are heading the same way. Its the diet and all those imported fast food companies that are taking over the UK.

Answer 11

There is a very good reason: the major food co's are putting chemicals in the food to make you hungry so you will eat more of their products. read the labels, if you can't pronouce all the ingrediants don't buy it!