preview

Essay on The Obesity Epidemic in America

Decent Essays
Open Document

Obesity and being overweight are problems in America that are continuing to exacerbate each and everyday. According to Jan Simmonds, being a few pounds above an individual's ideal weight is considered overweight; while obesity is being more than twenty percent above an individual's ideal weight (3). Ideal weight is a number based on one's height and body frame. TeensHealth states, "Obese people are very overweight and at risk for serious health problems" (1). Obesity is life threatening and there are many side effects associated with being obese. Obesity and being overweight is a direct symbol of the culture. Americans always want more and once they get more, Americans still are not satisfied. Moreover, look at what …show more content…

In the twenty-first century, sometimes both parents work full time, leaving less time for cooking. The present lifestyle is much more upbeat, on-the-go, and rushed. In the article, "Obesity," from TeensHealth quotes, "Cars dominate our lives, and fewer people walk or ride bikes to get somewhere" (2). Trying to save time, families tend to pick-up fast food for snacks and dinner or prepare meals that are quick and more fattening. Both of these efforts result in consuming more calories. Children that do not participate in after school activities or sports tend to play computer/video games or watch television. These interests result in less physical activity and less calories burned. According to statistics quoted in Body Image, Eating Disorders, and Obesity in Youth, "American children spend an average of more than seven hours per week watching videotapes and more than five hours per week playing videogames" (273). Both fast food and less physical activity are credited with the growing number of overweight and obese people. The number of people that eat fast food and the frequency that fast food is eaten has increased along with the portion sizes served at fast food restaurants. According to Jan Simmonds, "The average American now consumes about three hamburgers and four orders of french fries each week. That"s 90 grams of fat and 2,520 calories. The average person needs about 2,000

Get Access