Monday, December 27, 2010

"One Nation Overweight"


So on the plane, on the way home from my Christmas vacation I watched this CNBC documentary called "One Nation Overweight." Watching this was liking someone hitting me over the back of the head. It's knowledge I have known about but never really voiced my opinion. So instead of being judgmental and not helping anyone. I want to be a voice and try and do my part to inform people I come in contact with! So I know most of you will not watch this documentary so Im just going to throw out some staggering numbers.
  • 200 million Americans are overweight or obese (2 out of 3 people)
  • 1/3 of which are children
  • If children continue on this path, they will be the first generation to have a shorter lifespan than their parents!!! Let me repeat that..... If children continue on this path, they will be the first generation to have a shorter lifespan than their parents!! Any parent want to see their children pass?
  • $144 billion in medical cost treating diseases associated with overweight or obese individuals (diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, etc)
  • If rate continues, by 2018 it is estimated the medical costs will more than double to approximately $344 billion..... Can anyone say "bankruptcy??"
So those are a few staggering points that may influence you to watch this. But my main focus is, if you have kids, nieces, nephews, parents, spouse, or whomever that may be at risk. I believe it is our duty to help educate from a loving, caring, and non judgmental platform because we all need support and none of us like to be looked at as a disgrace. As adults we have the ability to make decisions. So think about what you are feeding your children because you are creating life habits for them. So Im off my soap box. Hope you all had a Merry Christmas!!