The Most Overweight States in the U.S.

When you turn on the television, there aren't a shortage of reality shows transforming obese and overweight people into healthy human beings. The Biggest Loser, Celebrity Fit Club, and Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution are just a few of the shows that highlight our nation's epidemic. Even with these inspiring shows trying to bring the nation's weight problem under control, statistics still show that the obesity rate in America has skyrocketed from 15% to 30% (www.divinecaroline.com). This article takes a look at the top five most obese states in the U.S. and some of the contributing factors to their ranking.

1. Mississippi- 32.8% Obesity Rate
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Mississippi is the number one fattest state in the U.S. with 32.8% of its population being overweight. The weight problem may be attributed to Mississippi also being one of the poorest states in America. It's sad to say, but people who are struggling to make ends meet or who face poverty, don't tend to put healthy eating or exercising high on their priority list. The culture in the Southern state also is a major factor to this ranking. The South is known for their fried and fatty foods. Fried chicken, biscuits & gravy, and chicken & dumplings are just a sampling of the regional fare from this state. These traditional, rich foods can be traced back to history. Mississippi has deep roots in slavery; slaves would live off of low quality, fatty foods that were filling to give them energy to work hard all day. But despite these fat-contributing factors, the Mississippi government is trying to shake away this reputation through nutrition programs and park development (www.wisegeek.com).

2. Alabama- 31.2% Obesity Rate
Coming in at No.2 is Mississippi's neighbor to the east, Alabama, with an obesity rate of 31.2% (Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), CDC). According to AlabamaObesity.com, death rate rankings for obesity are amongst the highest in the nation. The factors contributing to this state's obesity problem parallel Mississippi's: a high percentage of unemployed and impoverished people, a culture of rich foods, and a history of unhealthy diets. Alabama has been in the spotlight for their highly controversial "fat tax." In order to curb obesity rates, the government sought to tax state employees an extra $25 for insurance. Other programs geared towards helping Alabama's weight problem were incentive programs like Scale Back Alabama, where citizens were given cash prizes for shedding pounds.

3. West Virginia- 31.1% Obesity Rate
Further north, West Virginia ranks third with 31.1% of its adults overweight. This obesity epidemic flows to the children. West Virginia children ages 10-17 have obesity rates are as high as 35.5% (www.healthyamericans.org). West Virginia schools do not have nutritional standards implemented in their cafeterias. The state also does not have screening standards for body mass indexes for student assessments. Huntington, West Virginia was put on the map as the fattest city in the U.S. when Jaimie Oliver paid them a visit for his show Food Revolution. Hopefully being put in the spotlight with this unhealthy reputation will turn this state around to becoming more health-conscience and implement higher standards for health.

4. Tennessee- 30.2% Obesity Rate
Keeping with the trend of overweight Southern states is Tennessee. According to the Chattanooga Times Free Press, Tennessee's obesity problem is caused by the Southern culture such as frying vegetables, larger portions, popularity of fast food, and calorific drinks like sweet tea. Tennessee is also ranked #3 for highest diabetes rate. But, Tennessee has been actively trying to reverse their obesity trend through grass root efforts like community organizations raising funds to develop rural counties be more pedestrian friendly by paving sidewalks so people can job and walk.

5. South Carolina-29.7% Obesity Rate
The obesity rate has doubled in South Carolina since 1990. According to the South Carolina Health and Environmental Control, South Carolinians consistently do not meet recommended levels of physical activity and consumption of fruits and vegetables.Obesity rates in this state are linked to poor diets, inadequate physical activity, and low incomes. In order to address this growing epidemic, the State of South Carolina has developed an Obesity State Plan. It gives citizens a step by step guide on how to lead more healthy and active lives.