Obesity in America

Introduction

Obesity affects so many people in many ways and makes life much harder. The way America is changing; things like video games and television don’t help. The body mass index is the measuring system used to calculate how much you weigh. A body mass index of 30 means that you are overweight. Obesity has become a problem in America, even though diet and exercise are important in controlling weight it is not the only cause to being obese

Obesity in America

Obesity is a large proportion of total body fat. An obese person has 20% more weight than normal. Obesity is measured through the body mass index, or known as BMI. A person that has between a 25 and 29.9 BMI is overweight, but a person that has a BMI over 30 is considered obese. When you have a BMI over 30 you want to think about how you can lose weight, because your health is at risk So many things can contribute to being obese like eating more than you should, not sleeping enough and the lifestyle that you led. People that smoke for a long time and then stop can become obese, because smoking lowers your appetite.

When a person is obese it is thought that genes can be an important part. Genes that helped our ancestors when there was a shortage of food are now changing by the way we live and have a lot more food. Ways this can happen are a poor control over appetite and the feeling of being full. The environment in which you live in and being physically inactive are a big part. Most of the studies come from the differences and resemblance that come from family.

Obesity can affect your life in many different ways. When living an obese life it is harder to find clothes that fit and seats that you can sit in. Carrying things, driving, climbing stairs and walking are very hard. The feeling of guilt, shame and low self-esteem also play a big part. An obese person can have mental problems like anxiety and depression.