This New Year there is some optimism that the obesity statistics seemed to have leveled off, with a report from the Centers for Disease Control indicating that there has been no significant increase in a decade.
The report specifically looked at the years 2007-2008. So, the good news here is that there has been no increase. But, experts believe that the obesity rate was already so high it would have been even more staggering if there was an increase. The current adult obesity rate is still is 34 percent with 68 percent of adults being overweight and on their way to obesity. Even of bigger concern is that youngsters are still at an obesity rate of 17 percent.
Having been formerly obese, one of the greatest concerns that I see is that there was no decrease during the last decade even with all of the extensive knowledge and information we have regarding health and wellness. If you or your children are among these statistics, I can offer you a few simple lifestyle changes that can get you on the right path. First and foremost, stop the fast food habit. While many fast food chains are now offering healthier options, if you cannot get through the drive through without being tempted by French fries, don’t go in the first place. Rethink what fast food is to you. To me, it is an apple, baby carrots, hard boiled eggs, or almonds. These are all natural foods, no preservatives. In a nutshell, they will make your body happy and you’ll feel better. When you feel better, you will make better choices and have more energy.
The other component is exercise and being an example to your children in that respect. For the kids, have them have designated play time to put down the video games and turn off the television. For you shut down the laptop and hide the Blackberry. Start habits like taking the dog for a longer walk, go for a family bike ride, plant a garden or build an obstacle course in the backyard. We were not meant to sit. Our bodies are designed to move. When we move, we function optimally and have less aches and pains. When we exercise, we have more energy, sleep better and are much more productive. So in 2010 be healthy statistic and work to decrease the obesity rate and make America the land of not only the free, but the land of the healthy and free.
Joanne Sgro is a Television Fitness Expert, Certified Personal Trainer and Sport Nutritionist. She is Certified in Pilates, Pre-natal/Post-Partum, Yoga and Senior Fitness. She specializes in Weight Loss, Post-Rehab and Post Cancer Training. Joanne's fitness plans and recipes are available globally on her website www.fitnessanswer.com. She resides in the Phoenix, AZ area with her fiancé, where she runs her personal training business, Fitness Answer, LLC.