Obesity in America: An Epidemic of Large Portions

In a culture that slams young girls who idolize waif-thin models, it is appalling that so many Americans are overweight and obesity has become an epidemic.

There are many factors that contribute to obesity in America: consumption of more calories, bigger portions of food, physical inactivity, genetics, modernization and emotional influences among others all play a role in obesity in children as well as the most of the nation.

Of course, some of these factors cannot be controlled but those that are controllable are the reasons for the rise of obesity in America. Obesity is not something that occurs overnight, it is a disease that gradually builds up until it overcomes the person. Our culture and way of life is not helping the obesity epidemic at all.

Most people these days are always go-go-go, so there is less time to plan well-rounded, healthy meals let alone cook one. Many Americans rely on fast food restaurants to feed the family at a low price with minimal or no preparation time.

Convenience is also a factor that has driven obesity rates sky high. Drive-thru's are abundant in the US in comparison to other countries. Drive-thru come in the form of fast food, pharmacies, banks, convenience stores and the drive-thrus never end.

In relation to the 10,000 steps a day program, taking those extra steps from the car into the place of business and back to the car can only benefit a person. In the time span of a year, those few extra steps can result in pounds lost instead of piled on topping on a cheeseburger.

It is little conveniences that ultimately harm us. Our culture is so engrossed in cramming so much into so little time that we need these conveniences to accommodate our busy schedules. But is the free delivery of lunch really worth being stuck at a desk all day without the chance to walk outside, enjoy the scenery and take those crucial steps that could affect your health forever?

It is not to say a few steps will determine life or death but that Americans need to choose a more active lifestyle. Move around, get involved and get others involved. Once we have learned to better ourselves and take care of our bodies, we are setting an example for our children who can then pass these healthy tips onto their children.

End this vicious cycle now. The first step starts with the choices we make now. Take a step in the right direction.