by Ann Heard
It’s not likely that we set out to become obese or overweight; however, more than two –thirds or 69 percent of adults age 20 or older are considered overweight or obese. It is a known fact that the consequences of obesity often result in type II diabetes, coronary artery disease, stroke and high blood pressure, to name a few. And, unfortunately, there is a very fine line between being overweight and obese. The weight issue is so common now that the American Medical Association has begun to classify obesity as a disease. So, the magic pills aren’t magic, and as with other diseases, will not fix the obesity epidemic.
It is a huge concern to daily observe the high incidence of obesity in our community, our children, and our families. Life expectancy of children born today is not expected to exceed that of their parents. With that said, as adults, we must begin to make lifestyle changes not only for self but because we want better for ourselves and our families. Not enough time, or being too busy cannot replace a better quality of life for self or our families. The doctor will not be the problem solver with this health matter, nor will the pill. Family and community involvement (“the village”) will and should be the mechanism for personal behavior and lifestyle changes. Let’s love our families to life not death. Health really does matter! HAPPY and !
Ann Heard RDLN,CDE
Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator
