Recent studies and polls taken this year have demonstrated that Americans whom consider themselves overweight are less interested in shedding off those extra pounds.
In fact, obesity continues to climb as much as 30% per year, which is both an astonishing and very concerning rate. What steps Americans intend to take moving forward to better manage diet, fitness, and overall health however seems up in the air.
The Dilemma
While some argue it’s marketing of fast-food or other unhealthy foods that contribute heavily to obesity in America, others argue genetics, and many argue a lack of overall education pertaining to healthy dieting and fitness.
Unfortunately, hiring a personal trainer or even seeing a nutritionist, without medical insurance, can be both very costly, yet “essential” steps towards bettering your overall health.
However, recent research and studies conducted found that considering the continuously astronomical rise in internet usage and information sharing, that it’s becoming more and more practical to achieve comparable information, advice, support, and even specific information best suited for an individual via the Internet.
Unfortunately, relying on the Internet for health advice of course has its drawbacks. For one, many people whom are not licensed medical professionals may portray themselves to be such. In other instances, individuals may be sharing advice that is simply unsafe or unhealthy—whether or not it’s intentional is a completely different topic.
Finding Support
In lieu of the complexities of relying on health and wellness information on the internet, specifically pertaining to weight loss, one must also consider the likelihood that such advice is not tailored directly to his or her needs.
With this in mind, individuals interested in living a healthier life are encouraged of course to review government, scholarly researched and referenced dietary and nutrition advice, or other guidelines via the Internet. In addition to this, sources and live discussion boards such as systems which are in place by reputable companies, that for example include door delivery of meal plans, may be the next safest best.
Understanding Your Body and Science
Unfortunately, many professionals, websites, and even public information found in books still heavily rely on the arguably ‘archaic’ system of applying the BMI (Body Mass Index) calculator to determine their current and desired weight when considering weight loss. While the BMI calculator has its advantages, it cannot be expected to be accurate for every individual—in other words it’s typically off by several ‘points’ or lbs.
With this in mind, it’s best to focus on losing unhealthy weight around the waist, your bottom, and other unruly places that are likely unnatural or unhealthy. People that are “obese” by definition or are overweight that don’t take weight loss seriously are at risk to multiple forms of serious illnesses and medical complications, ranging from Diabetes all the way up to heart failure.
While weight loss is no easy ‘feat’ for anyone, weight gain is also a common dilemma.
In general, many Americans just aren’t feeding themselves the daily essential nutrients and vitamins that they need, and seemingly have disregarded the elementary rules and importance of the Food Pyramid.
It’s your life. Live a healthier you.
Image credit: Anton Hlushchenko