Who's To Blame? The Obesity Epidemic in America

The Obesity Epidemic: Who is to Blame?

We live in a country rich in prided accomplishments. We have our Constitution: promoting a government of the people, for the people. With that we have the freedom of speech, press, religion, etc. We have beautiful scenic geography from coast to coast and a wide range of cultures and races in our population. However, there is one thing in particular that makes The United States of America a laughingstock of the world.

Our Healthcare.

To many, it is seen as a joke. After all, such an industrialized country ought to be healthy, right?

We live in a country with such amazing technology, but we also have such little nutritional knowledge! America has the most obese people in the world. Nearly one-third of all American adults are overweight. Nearly 17% of children are also in this state of obesity, which is nearly 12.5 million young children already facing serious health issues.

So who’s to blame for this obesity epidemic? This is the issue that has been debated by people everywhere. Each aspect plays a part, but where should the guilt really fall? Fast food? Parenting? The government?

We cannot place all of the blame on the companies that produce the thousands of fattening snacks Americans consume every day. It is not entirely the company’s products causing this obesity. It’s true, companies selling these foods have certain responsibilities to their customers. However, these responsibilities to keep their products healthy are already outlined by the FDA. All companies are required to publish ingredients and substances used in their products, and in the progress of making them.
These companies must post this information in an accessible manner, and failure to comply is punishable by law. Once they’ve done their part and the person buying the product is informed, it is the individual’s responsibility to make the right choice. If they choose to continue eating unhealthy foods even after knowing the nutritional facts, that is their own fault. The problem lies with their choices. We cannot continue to be so ignorant that we continue to deny and ignore the information so clearly placed before our eyes. It is truly unfortunate that such unhealthy food is available in our nation, but we must remember that we possess self-control, and need to start using it!

In addition to the consumer’s ignorance, the additional factor contributing to this problem is our society’s reliance on mechanical transportation
In many cities, such as New York City, NY it is impractical to own a car. Their daily lives are spent walking to work, walking to lunch, walking home.

However in other places, there is little to no healthy way to get everywhere they need to go. (i.e. walking, biking,) In a place like New York City, exercises is a part of their lifestyle, while in other places it is a rare trip to the gym.

In conclusion, there are several things that have caused our country’s obesity epidemic.
One, our people’s lack of knowledge when it comes to what they put in their body. Secondly, the lack of physical activity in our daily lives (particularly an effect of relying so much on modes of transportation requiring no exercise).
Hopefully, one day America will change. Perhaps not offer so many high-fat-content foods, or have an increase in free physical activities for individuals. But until then, we must continue to educate one another of the horrors in America’s health.