The battle of the bulge is continuing in the United States, and it seems that unfortunately, Americans are losing. Despite all of the weight-loss programs, and the extensive reports and studies, our nation’s waistline continues to grow.
An alarming 25% of the adults in this country are now considered obese. They are not just overweight, but dangerously heavy, with a body mass index (BMI) over 30.
A study was conducted, based on data compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that showed the unfortunate reality that a dozen states now have obesity rates exceeding 25%. Mississippi was the most overweight state with over 29% of its population considered obese. Following closely behind are: Alabama, West Virginia, Tennessee, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Texas. Other states with over 25% obesity rates are: Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and South Carolina.
Colorado is the least overweight state, with a figure of 16%, but it is still well above the federal government’s goal – which is for a national obesity level of less than 15.5%. Other states with lower than 20% obesity are New England, Rhode Island, Vermont,
Massachusetts, and Connecticut.
Our growing obesity rate is not only putting our lives at risk, but it’s affecting the cost of healthcare. A report issued recently, by the Trust for America’s Health, noted that taxpayers spent approximately $39 billion in 2005 to cover obesity-related medical costs. According to a recent University of Utah study, more than half of the 850,000 surgical procedures conducted in the U.S. each year to repair tears in the cartilage that cushions knee joints, can be attributed to obesity.
Along with its physical effects, being overweight has a psychological impact. According to the national Slimming Survey, many overweight people attributed their low self-esteem to public pressures to lose weight.
Experts suggest that Americans employ a fitness plan that incorporates exercise into their daily and weekly routine. Couple that with healthy diet choices and hopefully, Americans will be armed and ready for the battle of the bulge.
Stephanie Suddarth is the President of City Blends, Ltd. She can be contacted at 877.525.3637, or by email at stephanie@cityblends.com, or visit www.cityblends.com.
