What are your thoughts on United States Obesity issues?

Answer 1

Obesity is a complex psychosocial and behavioral issue. I have heard Dr. Carmona the former surgeon general speak on the topic. While he is a compelling speaker, I am always suspicious when the government gets involved with problems that affect individuals. Generally, this leads to more government regulation, more bureaucracy, and higher taxes with only minimal positive affects. We already have the food Nazi's out there trying to take away our liberties of personal choice.

However, there is one governmental thing that could be done, and that would probably make a difference. Farm subsidies particularly for grain (corn) could be stopped. If would have the affect of driving up the cost of corn and animal feed. Empty calories from sweeteners and corn oil would become more expensive as would animal products. The market would then drive some farmers in to heathier vegetable crops to maintain profit. This in turn would drive down the cost of vegetables so a lettuce salad at McDonald's would no longer cost twice as much as a cheeseburger, fries and Coke. However, I am a realist, and understand it is extraordinarily rare for government programs to be eliminated. (Another reason why I don't want more regulation).

Answer 2

I think too much emphasis is placed on weight and not enough emphasis is placed on healthy practice. While it's true that obesity has increased risk for some health problems the national obsession with it is much more about appearance.

For example: some schools have been sending home notices to parents saying "Your child is obese". As if calling someone names is going to give you a positive outcome.

Instead of separating people into obese and non-obese the schools should simply require all the children to exercise and educate all the children and parents regarding healthy eating habits. The cafeterias shouldn't serve fried or fatty foods to give the kids a head start on health.

Here's another chilling example. I few years ago I had a serious but mysterious health problem. EVERY time I went to the doctor I was told it MUST be diabetes because I was overweight. They repeatedly tested my blood sugar and it was always fine. However, because of the assumption that being overweight automatically give you diabetes my doctors never gave any other diagnoses consideration and would just test again.

I was sick much longer than I needed to be just because of the national obsession with obesity. It's not the source of all problems - it's just an easy thing to blame.

Answer 3

it's sad, unfortante, but preventable. all it takes is education. the problem is, even health professionals aren't educated on it. i know for a fact since i'm in med school, and they haven't told us anything profound. in fact, it even goes against some of the stuff i've learned on my own (out of my own curiosity).

once people know how their bodies work, they can make better decisions as consumers, whether it's with food or fitness products. it is my hope that i can accomplish that goal one day.

Answer 4

We need to walk more like we used to, instead of driving. We need to stop being sedentary and exercise more. We also need to stop with all the chemical ladden foods, which is a big part of why we have slow metabolisms and why our bodies retain fat more easily.

Answer 5

stop making it such a big deal. why dont we focus on anorexia and bullemia issues or maybe just maybe the homeless in THIS country who cant even afford food!