F as in FAT!

A June 2010 research study titled, "F as in Fat" released startling resuts:

Adult obesity rates increased in 28 states in the past year, and declined only in the District of Columbia (D.C.), according to F as in Fat: How Obesity Threatens America's Future 2010, a report from the Trust for America's Health (TFAH) and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF). More than two-thirds of states (38) have adult obesity rates above 25 percent. In 1991, no state had an obesity rate above 20 percent.

Equally alarming were the statistics reported for children struggling with obesity and how their parents seem unaware of the epidemic:

84 percent of parents believe their children are at a healthy weight, but research shows nearly one-third of children and teens are obese or overweight. Currently, more than 12 million children and adolescents are considered obese.

What is obesity?

The Center for Disease Control defines obesity as follows: For adults 20 years of age and older, a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy. A person with a BMI of 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight, and a person with a BMI of 30 or more is considered obese.


But obesity can be reversed and more importantly, prevented. Either option begins with little changes. The CDC suggests that families begin by encouraging simple, healthy eating habits such as:

* Provide plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole-grain products.
* Include low-fat or non-fat milk or dairy products.
* Choose lean meats, poultry, fish, lentils, and beans for protein.
* Serve reasonably-sized portions.
* Encourage your family to drink lots of water.
* Limit sugar-sweetened beverages.
* Limit consumption of sugar and saturated fat.

In fact, the CDC is convinced that "small changes every day can lead to a recipe for success!" (Their words, not just mine!)

This week, print this list of healthy eating suggestions and incorporate JUST ONE OF THEM into your lifestyle--the one that is the easiest for you or your family to do.

Just one little change can have big results—weight loss, lower cholesterol, or especially to lower the risk of diabetes or sleep apnea.

Click here for additional information on obesity from the CDC website, as well as how to assess BMI and/or if you or a family member falls into an unhealthy category.

Be encouraged,

Becky