Why Are We Fat?

Posted July 27th, 2008 by Mona Liza Reyes

The LA Times recently launched a series of articles that attempt to explain America’s exploding obesity rate. Factors put the blame on everything from stress to high-fructose corn syrup to viruses to medications, but the most plausible explanation is that it’s a combination of factors. And let’s face it: personal accountability comes into play, too.

With all the scientific inquiry and data-driven research, we know some basic principles about weight loss and fitness. Most simply put, you need to burn more than you take in if you want to lose weight. If you eat more calories than you burn, you’re most likely going to gain weight. As you get fatter, you’re less likely to exercise; the fat get fatter, while the fit stay fit or get thinner because they’re active. It’s simple, right?

Maybe not. Research has also demonstrated that some people are genetically predisposed to have a certain body type, while others react differently to different situations. Studies have shown that stress does lead to overeating, especially among certain groups.

However, I don’t think it’s fair to blame all of our problems on factors outside of our control. There are basic things we can do to take care of our health – eating right, exercising regularly, getting enough rest and sleep, and keeping on top of health conditions. How many people do you know who eat the right foods, work out consistently, and make healthy choices, yet still have a problem losing weight or keeping it off? I’d venture to guess that this number is very small. Instead of trying to hide behind research that can offer excuses for the growing obesity epidemic, why don’t we make a greater effort to get our friends and family working out with us, and making healthier nutrition choices? So what gives, MFT readers? What do you think is the biggest issue contributing to our national weight problem?

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State of mind...

On August 4th, 2008 Mayhem says:

Ahhhhh.....why are we fat? Mo, you bring up a great question...I think it's different for everyone! My experience with the "fat state of mind" hit when I had my thyroidectomy! Yup, I'm thyroid-free. I have also found that hypothyroidism is more common in woman than I ever knew; and ultimately the cause of over weight woman? NOT!!! I'll tell you there is nothing easy about adjusting to synthetic hormone replacements; I gained about 20 pounds after my surgery. The average weight gain annually is 8-11 pounds for Thyroidectomy patients! I didn't want to be a statistic and therefore took about two years to test what foods I could and could NOT eat; the trial and error method.

All it takes is desire to be healthy because a desire promotes knowledge which in turn moves one to act! I truly feel that people that over weight are lacking "desire"....stress, weight loss pills, genetics?? I don't buy it....motivate someone, inspire someone, give them the knowledge and the time to test that knowledge and I believe weight loss can occur. I believe it, because I've done it.

the biggest contributor to obesity

On August 3rd, 2008 tribe doc says:

in the US as well as in developing countries is our excessive consumption of fast food.In China, for instance, is experiencing what is being called an epidemic of obesity now that the population is embracing the American diet. As important as exercise and stress management are, in terms of weight they are less important than what we are putting in our mouths-"you are what you eat!"

Cheng TO. An obesity epidemic in modern China. Am J Cardiol. 2001;88:721–722

Darren Clair, MD
Vibrance Health Services

LA cracking down on fast food.

On July 29th, 2008 willbefit (not verified) says:

Great article, I just read this article about LA cracking down on fast food businesses. It would be great if other cities followed suit.

http://omaha.cox.net/cci/newsnational/national?_mode=view&_state=maximiz...

Ultimately... Lack of

On July 29th, 2008 Jamie Yu says:

Ultimately...

Lack of responsibility for ones self. To many people want answers quickly and even then they want somebody to do the work for them.

I've heard all of the excuses in the book. Take accountability for yourself and your health and be responsible for this shell we live in. We only get one.

Think of it this way if you bought a £75,000 (or $200,000) sports car you wouldn't neglect it and let it rust and give it the cheapest oil and gas (petrol) would you? Now we can always trade in our car for a new improved model but we can't do this with our bodies!

I just feel there are no excuses for not exercising and eating responsibly. We can all improve and little improvements make big differences. but in saying that we must all try to make greater improvements.