America has faced many epidemics throughout the years; one consistent epidemic plaguing America today is Obesity. About 42 percent of Americans suffer from obesity, which does not mean just simply being “fat,” as is a common misconception. “Obesity means an abnormal amount of body fat that puts someone’s health at risk,” according to the World Health Organization. About 46 percent of adults and 56 percent of children have poor diet quality which can be a stepping stone to obesity. Some various health issues that follow obesity include high blood pressure, diabetes, and even cancer. These health issues can lead to cardiovascular illnesses and a shortened life span. Obesity is not just a problem with physical health obesity is directly connected to one of the leading causes of teen deaths. According to student-athlete Finn McCarthy, “Fitness and health have helped me not only with my physical but also mental health.” From stress relief and the release of endorphins exercise and proper nutrition and exercise can improve moods and mental health.

This all derives from a healthy relationship with nutrition. Teenagers are at the highest risk of suffering from eating disorders. With the pressures of what society views as healthy, teenagers can be put in a situation that lacks what healthy looks like. The Youth Risk Behavior Service has concluded that obesity is directly connected with some cases of self-harm among teenagers. This sad reality puts the adverse effects of obesity in our community. Better education at a young age and the encouragement of physical activity and generally healthy behaviors can help reduce the prevalence of obesity in teenagers.

This is more than just an issue regarding choices people make. Obesity in America is a truly socioeconomic problem that some organizations are trying to help grasp control of. Feeding America is a food bank that is attempting to communicate with local farms and stores to provide healthy options for people that cannot afford a diet with traditionally nutritious foods. Feeding America realizes that unhealthy foods usually are cheaper and more available for people in need. Currently, 71 percent of their food is derived from local farms that promote a healthy lifestyle.

One easy way we can make sure we lead a healthy lifestyle is by getting a least 30 minutes of activity every day. It can include running, walking, lifting weights, or even stretching. Pairing activity with a healthy diet will only be effective if you are committed to bettering yourself. Retired IMG football player Ronald DiPietro gave beginners the time in and out and the advice that “consistency is key.” This is true with both dietary choices and lifestyle choices. We have the decision to be better and make the most out of what we are given; let’s all make the right choice.

Sources:

“Adult Obesity Facts.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 17 May 2022, https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/adult.html.

“Importance of Nutrition on Health in America.” Feeding America, https://www.feedingamerica.org/hunger-in-america/impact-of-hunger/hunger-and-nutrition.

“Poor Nutrition.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 8 Sept. 2022, https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/factsheets/nutrition.htm.

Upham, Becky, et al. “Poor Nutrition in the United States Poses Threats to Health, National Security, and Economy, Panel Says.” EverydayHealth.com, 28 July 2020, https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/poor-nutrition-in-us-poses-threats-to-health-national-security-and-economy-panel-says/.