Impact of Obesity in America

     

                                              IMPACT OF OBESITY IN AMERICA

     Obesity is a problem that continues to plague us on a daily basis.  What has our country come to?  Instead of going for a walk or a run to get some food, we hop in our cars and go to the nearest drive thru.  The common theme in America is quantity over quality, which has led to a significant increase in health problems.  The increased obesity numbers over the last decade has caused for people to often have self-image issues and have a decreased quality of life.
     The problem of obesity grew as people continued to have a growing need for instant gratification.  Currently, American society is centralized on the idea of doing things on the go.  The ideal family dinner was all members to sit around the table and take their time.  This was done in order to discuss ideas that have been going on in each individual's life and to fully enjoy the meal placed before them.  Due to the increased focus on work, dinner is more for a time to quickly fuel up and either get ready for work the next day.  The general idea is that is people look for quick options for food and these options often are fast food restaurant chains.
     Fast food restaurants have made an attempt to add healthy options to their menu.  However, the majority of the menu still have items that are high in calories and unhealthy fats.  The first reason that I discussed had to do with people on the go needing food prepared quickly due to on the go lifestyles.  Another reason that people continue to choose fast food is due to the economy.  People want to be able to save money as much as possible.  Since healthy food requires spending more money, people will shy away and get a decent amount of food for an affordable price.  The media seems to promote these fast food restaurants and the deals they provide for the consumer, which transitions to my third point.
     The media has great influence on what circulates on the television and Internet to the national population.  Often, I do not see commercials for establishments that promote healthy food options, but rather I see multiple commercials that promote KFC or McDonald's.  I believe that the media can be the foundation for decreasing the obesity rate in America.  The general individual will support the establishments based on what looks attractive on the television.  There are two things that the media can do to move America in the right direction: healthy food options and an active lifestyle.  Places like Panera, Saladworks, and Chipotle use ingredients that help people eat healthy.  If the media decided to show more commercials that promote these companies, most likely people will start supporting these establishments.  Another solution, promoting an active lifestyle, can save thousands of lives on a daily basis.  Obesity is known to lead people to be at risk for heart disease and many other health issues that can lead to severe consequences.  The reason for this is commonly due to a sedentary lifestyle.  The media should take time to show the general population ways in which they can begin to become actives in ways that can be fun and life-changing in a positive way.  Below, is an image of the obesity levels based on states in our country.  The common trend seems to be in places where there is not much to do and there are many options for food that are quite unhealthy.  I think it is time to flip the script and begin putting an end to obesity in the United States of America

Example of Promotion of Active Lifestyle