Did you know that over one billion people are now overweight?
Research by Aline Jelenkovic Moreno states, "Obesity is seen as the great pandemia of the 21st century.
Recent data point to more than a billion adults in the world suffering from overweight, of which 300 million are clinically obese. What is more, the rates of child obesity show a worrying increase, with more than 155 million children and adolescents being overweight, of which 40 million are clearly obese."
When I read that more than a BILLION people are overweight I couldn't believe it. I've long understood that the U.S. population is about two-thirds overweight, but now it seems our country's unhealthy habits have spread globally.
I'd rather not think of these stats as a condemnation, but rather a large wake-up call.
For obesity to be one of the top diseases (and causes of death) in the world should come as an outrage. Besides quitting smoking, it is one of the most preventable diseases in the world to fight against.
And, we must truly fight against it...
The reason we can't just casually try to put an end to obesity is that we are bombarded from every angle by food manufacturers promoting unhealthy foods and diets. The fact that obesity rates have increased as food becomes more processed and unnatural is not a coincidence.
Plus, exercise is seen as a luxury for those who have the time.
Unfortunately, being active is not a luxury anyone can afford not to indulge in. The fact that most people sit for the majority of the day is a good indicator that at least 30 minutes a day of moderate to vigorous activity is needed.
Lastly, I will finish with this thought which I believe in the end is the only way we can reverse the obesity numbers and prevent them from climbing.
I feel that in order to create permanent change we must look at weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight as simply a by-product of valuing health. Right now, I believe that the majority of people place convenience (which includes processed foods, fast food, and medication) above living a healthy lifestyle. This leads to not wanting to put in the extra effort needed to eat well, exercise, and live an overall healthy life.
Unless we're willing to change our individual and collective view of how we live our life, then we may be headed for higher obesity rates and all the effects it carries along with it.
I for one will continue to spread the word about how to live a life based on eating well, proper exercise, and stress reduction, which in turn will provide you with a life-time of healthy benefits - I hope you'll help me in spreading this word!
