Fast Food to Blame on Obesity in America Essay Example

complications. (Source: http://www.ime.)

The consumption of fast food is linked to higher levels of fats, sugars, and carbohydrates while also leading to a decrease in the intake of non-starchy vegetables and fruits, according to a study by com/time/covers/1101040607. The proliferation of fast-food restaurants and marketing since the 1990s has likely led to increased consumption by children. While some blame the industry for contributing to obesity, attempts at class-action lawsuits have failed. Nevertheless, many chains are now offering healthier options.

Legislation is being advocated to protect children from the adverse effects of the fast food trend, such as limiting access to sugary beverages and snacks in schools and regulating advertisements that market food products towards children (source: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2004/01/05/health/main591325.shtml).

The rise in larger portion sizes in America is largely due to the increased consumption of fast food, particularly among White Americans who frequently eat out. This demographic has a 50% higher risk for obesity compared to those who consume fast food less often. Those with lower or average incomes tend to eat fast food three to five times per week, which means that children from families who frequently eat this type of cuisine are also regularly exposed.

According to research by CBS News, the prevalence of obesity is becoming more socially acceptable. Additionally, fast food companies are targeting specific demographics such as children, different races, and varying economic statuses. Prominent examples of this include popular brands like McDonald's, KFC and Wendy's.According to a CNN article, individuals are influenced by society in various mental and emotional ways. Although many individuals aim to be thinner, being overweight is now considered more socially acceptable.

A decade ago, morbidly obese individuals were uncommon in

society, but now they are considered "average". However, education about the health risks of obesity is inadequate. Instead of addressing these dangers, society only emphasizes cosmetic effects. The media portrays overweight characters lightly and promotes eating contests without warning about potential hazards of being overweight. This does not necessarily imply that depicting obesity on television is problematic; rather it has become normalized and accepted by society leading people to overlook their weight and overall health.

(http://www.obesityresearch.org/cgi/content/full/13/8/1412). An individual's lifestyle choices have a significant impact on obesity.

Despite doctors' advice for a healthy lifestyle, obesity can occur when exercise and health are not prioritized. Physical activity is often neglected by both adults and children, leading to the prevalence of laziness. The availability of escalators and automatic doors has contributed to this trend as people choose driving over walking to avoid excessive exertion.

Children nowadays spend less time participating in outdoor activities like biking or playing at parks, and more time using computers and playing video games. The complexity of modern life has made parents increasingly reluctant to let their children play outside, resulting in a growing issue of obesity (http://www.obesityinamerica.org/).

Insufficient physical activity, modern society, and unhealthy dietary options are the main causes of the world's highest rates of obesity. Combatting this issue is crucial. Prioritizing both mental and physical health can help us take control of our bodies and improve overall wellness. The CBS News article "Fast Food Linked Childhood Obesity" published on November 24th supports this idea.

On November 27, Time Magazine published an article titled "How Did We Get So Big?" which can be accessed through the web address http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2004/01/05/health/main591325.shtml and features 007 as its author.

The Hormone Foundation

provides information on "The Obesity Crisis" through a link at http://www.time.com/time/covers/1101040607/ in 2007.On December 2, 2007, the website "Obesity in America" posted an article titled "Economic, Lifestyle, and Social Influence Obesity" which can be found at http://www.obesityinamerica.org/.The North American Association for the Study of Obesity published a resource on "Obesity" in 2007, with a link to the webpage http://www.uic.edu/depts/ovcr/hrpc/projects/35.html.The URL "http://www.obesityresearch.org/cgi/content/full/13/8/1412" was published in 2005.