Obesity in America: The Epidemic and What We Can Do About It
Definition of Obesity
"Obesity is a complex disease involving having too much body fat. Obesity isn't just a cosmetic concern. It's a medical problem that increases the risk of many other diseases and health problems. These can include heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, liver disease, sleep apnea and certain cancers," (Mayo Clinic).
Ways to Measure Body Fat
- Skinfold Calipers - Popular tools, though I’ve never used them myself.
- Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)- A small electrical current is passed through the body to estimate body fat percentage. Fat is a poor conductor of electricity, so more resistance indicates higher body fat.
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Digital Scales - Though not 100% accurate, they provide a helpful idea of your progress.
- Check out Renpho scales. I use one myself!
Obesity Epidemic: Facts You Need to Know
In 2024, more than one billion people worldwide were living with obesity, including nearly 880 million adults and 159 million children and adolescents (World Obesity).
In the United States, more than 40% of adults were obese, and nearly 20% of children and adolescents were obese.
Nationally, over four in 10 U.S. adults have obesity. - Trust for America's Health
My Childhood Obesity Story
All I can think about is how many "before" Me's there are out there… and how they’re feeling.
When I was overweight, I didn’t feel good or think positive thoughts. I believed losing weight was too hard and that I was destined to stay overweight forever. But that wasn’t true. I completely transformed my mind, body, and life. And if I can do it, others can too. This is why I started Let's Get Posi. I didn't have anyone to go to for advice so I just started experimenting. Along the way, through trial and error I found what worked for me.
Why Obesity is Life-Threatening
Obesity isn’t just about physical health—it impacts us mentally and emotionally too. And it can make us more susceptible to:
- Depression
- High cholesterol
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Sleep apnea
- Joint pain
The list goes on. But the good news is: Obesity can be changed.
Barriers to a Healthy Lifestyle
Obesity isn’t about “being lazy” or “eating too much.” It’s a result of other factors, including:
- Lack of access to gyms or safe outdoor spaces.
- Financial or geographical barriers to healthy food.
- Lack of awareness about long-term eating habits.
Practical Solutions to Prevent and Address Obesity
Here are some tips to help make progress:
Diet and Nutrition
- Drink more water, less juice, soda, and alcohol.
- Always include a fruit or vegetable in every meal.
- Choose baked or grilled over fried foods.
- Try this mantra: "Nothing tastes as good as healthy feels."
Physical Activity
- Go for a 30-minute walk daily.
- Try jump rope or at-home YouTube workouts.
- Avoid going more than two days without exercising.
- Start with consistency, then increase intensity.
Mental and Emotional Wellness
- Write down three things you’re thankful for every day.
- Pray or meditate.
- Journal and reflect on your journey.
- Surround yourself with positivity and uplifting people.
Long-Term Ideas
- Open more local produce markets.
- Invest in at-home farming or hydroponics like Lettuce Grow.
- Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor.
The Next Generation is Counting on Us
The next generation is at risk, and that should concern us all. We need to take steps now to ensure a healthier future for our children. Or the next generation will die young.
Creating a Wellness Action Plan
Overcoming obesity and fat loss can feel overwhelming, but small, consistent changes add up. Here’s how you can start:
- Adopt a “wellthy” lifestyle.
- Find a workout partner for accountability.
- Buy a pair of dumbbells and start strength training.
- Share wellness tips with a friend.
- Never give up. Remember: Faith it ‘til you make it.
I’m not saying I have all the answers for living healthy, living long, or solving the obesity epidemic. But I want to share what has worked for me in hopes it can help others too. Consider trying these tips—one behavior change at a time can lead to a lifetime of wellness.
Peace and positivity always,
p
