A Controversial Health Article Released Today

I was shocked today to read the following headline: "Obesity now a 'lifestyle' choice for Americans, expert says".

The expert in question is economist Eric A. Finkelstein who wrote (along with Laurie Zuckerman) the book: "The Fattening of America", which you can find on Amazon.com. As of a few moments ago, there were 33 reviews with an average score of 3.5 stars out of 5 (a pretty decent score). There are a number of reviews that are highly complimentary and some that are pretty scathing.

Apparently, Finkelstein makes a number of claims from a load of research. I'll leave it up to you to decide once you've read the article and delved deeper into the book and/or reviews. Unfortunately, I have not yet read the book so I cannot comment on it further. However, I did want to comment on the article, which I did read.

Now, here are my 2 cents on "obesity as a lifestyle choice." It may be true that some of the choices we make, such as regularly consuming fast foods or not exercising regularly, do often lead to weight gain. However, this does not mean that people set out intentionally to becoming obese. Nor does it mean that they don't care about being overweight or obese. Nor does it mean that they believe being overweight or obese is not going to be a problem for them in later years. Nor does it mean that they think the medical community is going to cure everything that ails them, if and when they do get sick.

Of course, my views are only anecdotal and I haven't done an exhaustive research study on the matter. One thing I have noticed is that everyone I know discusses the topic of weight; is either on or just off of a diet; is upset about being overweight, obese or gaining a few pounds; and may have self-esteem issues as a result. But, those are my friends, acquaintances and family members. Perhaps you have a different view and believe that people knowingly "choose obesity".

Anyway, let's leave this for now and talk about our shared goals: "Healthy. Fit. Living Fully." For my part, I ate well today and went for a 45-minute power-walk this morning. I feel great. And I wish the same for you no matter what your current weight, level of physical fitness, or level of motivation right now.

Share your thoughts and goals with me, and give me your 2 cents on the article and book referenced above. Perhaps I've missed something.

Ciao for now. Have a great weekend!

Sandy Huard, President, Women's Health Supply International