Children mimic their parent’s lifestyle and many times it’s the bad habits that lead to these increasing obesity rates. According to a new report, for the first time in the last 10 years, adult obesity rates has decreased in four states—Minnesota, Montana, New York and Ohio, but for the rest of the country there’s still a lot of work to be done. Childhood obesity is also high, at around 17% nationwide.
The report from the State of Obesity, Better Policies for a Healthier America tracked obesity rates across the country in every state. On average about 50% of states have an obesity rate of 30% or higher, while as a whole country every state has at least a 20% obesity rate. Louisiana has the highest obesity rate at 36.2%, while Colorado has the lowest at 20.2%.
There is some evidence that the rate of increase of adult obesity has been slowing down over the last 10 years and the report suggests that there needs to be more of this:
- Obesity prevention programs
- Focus on early childhood policies and programs
- School-based policies and programs, healthy eating
- More access to bike paths and green spaces
- Healthcare that covers obesity prevention
The government does their part in implementing programs, but it’s up to people to take those advisements and put them into action. There are many ways to lead a healthier lifestyle, but you have to start at home. Think about what you do when you and your kids get home from work and school. Do you cook a nutritious meal or do your order take out? Make sure you include fruits and vegetables in every meal, even if it’s just one fruit or one vegetable. Small steps can make a huge difference in the long run. Invite your children when you go grocery shopping and have them choose delicious healthy produce. Forget the fruit juices and soda, instead make infused fruit water at home.
Eat as a family, without television or cell phones and engage in a conversation as a family. Limit the amount of television and video games for every member of the family. Instead of sitting down all afternoon, take a walk as a family to the nearest park or around the neighborhood. Don’t make it a punishment, but make it part of your evening routine.
Make sure you are taking the necessary steps to be healthier because you don’t want to deal with the health problems that are linked to obesity, such as diabetes, heart disease, and even some types of cancer. Think healthy and start making the necessary changes today.