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The Correlation between Fast Food and Obesity in America
Obesity has become a common problem in America. So common in fact, that two in every three Americans is considered overweight, and one in every three is classified as obese. Obesity is determined through a formula called the body mass index or BMI. An obese person has a BMI that is over 30. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many other health problems including diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and osteoarthritis. Coronary artery disease is also a common malady among obese people putting them at much higher risk for things like heart attacks and strokes. Because there are many potentially health risks involved with obesity, it is important to try to discover the causes of the condition and ways to treat it. This has led doctors and scientists to examine the link between obesity and fast food in America.
Fast Food Restaurants have replaced the Dinner Table
It is true that fast food has become a large percentage of this country's diet, so it is no wonder that a link has been considered between fast food and obesity in America. Some studies have shown that eating fast food for three or more meals each week results in a higher incidence of obesity and larger BMI's. This is an alarming statistic for a nation with such a high incidence of obesity and a fast food chain on nearly every corner. With the increase in activities and overall business of families today, eating out has become a quick and convenient alternative to the homemade family dinner. The food that we consume from fast food restaurants has a tendency to be packed with fat and calories, not to mention sodium and sugar. Studies have also shown that families that eat fast food more often are also less likely to keep healthy fare like fresh fruits and vegetables in the house to offset some of the negative effects of the burgers and fries.
How do we Diminish the Link between Fast Food and Obesity in America?
The solution in reducing the link between fast food and obesity in America is to cut back on this type of diet. Fast food does not have to be avoided altogether and at all costs - it just needs to be considered the exception rather than the rule in your family's diet choices. When you eat the bulk of your meals at home, make sure that you are serving plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains on everyone's plate. That Big Mac should be a special treat to be enjoyed on occasion, instead of the primary ingredient in your diet. With a few wise choices and an understanding of good health and nutrition, the link between fast food and obesity in America may be greatly reduced.
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