"To keep the body in good health is a duty, otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear."
~Buddha (c. 563 BC to 483 BC)~
Obesity is a recent problem across many societies. Almost 1 in 3 adults in The United States of America is overweight. Some are educated on how to avoid it and yet choose to ignore the warnings that their bodies are sending them, whilst some are oblivious to the dangers that await them if they continue to follow an unhealthy lifestyle. Healthy Living is a label most people would wish to associate themselves with and like the quote above states, with a healthy body comes a healthy mind. Since 1980 worldwide obesity rates have more than doubled, because of this recent trend more health problems have become a current issue. However, obesity can almost always be avoided simply by eating the correct portions, healthy food choice, and regular exercise. Obesity is one of the most common dangers in our society, and that's why it is something worth fighting against.
Obesity can negatively affect people and society in a variety of ways. One obvious negative affect is that it poses as a physical limitation. For example I have one Aunt who also struggles with being overweight. We, as a family, are limited to the activities that we can participate in together. The fact is that obesity physically limits people so that they cannot participate or physically endure some activities without getting seriously injured. Another negative impact that obesity causes is that it is a potentially life threatening condition. It is directly related to other conditions such as high cholesterol, heart disease and stroke, and diabetes. Following from this, higher obesity rates has resulted in the increase of health care spending. In 2004, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated obesity cost the US economy a total of $122.9 Billion. [1]
Obesity is caused by consuming more calories than the body expends, and therefore the excess calories result in weight gain. Statistics show a direct correlation between obesity and lower income groups. In times of economic decline, lower economic classes are more prone to weight gain due to the fact that fresh food is becoming increasingly expensive to produce. Thus, the inevitable turn to chemical and preservative saturated processed foods. Companies are manufacturing their foods cheaper to get those who appeal more to 'bargain buyers'. In addition to this, food suppliers have made fast food more convenient which appeals to busy individuals whom have little time to cook. Another reason for obesity is the lack of physical activity. Many people chose not to exercise, and prefer to spend their leisure time on the computer or watching TV.
Someone who was obese but ultimately overcame it, is Rosalie Bradford; formerly known as 'The World's Heaviest Woman'. Whilst suffering from depression, she turned to food as a friend. This was one of many mistakes she made. At age 15 her weight escalated to a whopping 140Kg, and later reached her peak weight of 544 Kg. Bed ridden and near death, she was inspired by celebrity Richard Simmons, and managed to 'clap-along' to an exercise video. Clapping was the only movement she was able to do. Through dieting and vigorous clapping (she gradually moved past her 'clapping stage' and achieved movement with her whole body), Rosalie lost over 416Kg. She is a true inspiration of how people can fight and overcome their biggest challenge; themselves.
Obesity can by caused by a variety of reasons, but in most cases it is a lifestyle choice. With adequate food, and regular exercise, a healthy weight can usually be maintained. For those people who are suffering from obesity, it is up to them to motivate and discipline themselves in order to achieve a healthy weight. To be able to lead a longer and healthier life, in the company of your friends and family, surely that is something worth fighting for.
[1] Obesity in America.org
