It's Time to Fight Back Against Obesity

The statistics are staggering: Obesity is becoming an epidemic in our society, according to researchers at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

It's estimated that more than 300,000 Americans will die of health complications stemming from obesity. It's also been reported that obesity has increased in adults by 50 percent each decade since 1980.  Researchers are suggesting that the life expectancy for the next generation of Americans will be shorter than our current generation. In addition, a study funded by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that the medical costs for an obese person are 42 percent higher than for a person of normal weight.

Despite the dismal numbers and statistisc surrounding obesity, the U.S Department of Health and Human Service says that it is not inevitable that our next generation will die young. If we stand up to obesity now, we can decrease the impact obesity has on our society.

The government and private organizations are joining in the fight to stop the spread of obesity with programs designed to educate Americans on healthy eating and exercise. Schools are also fighting back by promoting fitness through school sponsored events like family fitness night.

You can join the fight by starting with yourself and your own family. Even if you are not overweight, you can still find ways to positively influence your family and make healthy choices. Sit down together and decide on a goal that will impact the health and fitness of your family. Focusing on your health is time well spent.