An Apple a Day Keeps Obesity Away

It is no surprise that the obesity rates in our nation are above average, and the state of California is no different. It is especially an issue with our younger generation who lack the health education at home, and continue to follow the dietary example from their parents. For many college students, the obesity and health issue parallels the instruction we received as children. According to statehealthfacts.com, 60.8% of the United States is considered obese, and 57.7% of Californians are obese as of recently in 2009.

Taking a notice of the larger than normal issue is one thing, and doing something about it is another. People need to be faced with the facts that will make them aware of a situation they may be in denial about.

An Apple bound by Measuring Tape
Photo Credit: witweightloss.com

“Sometimes you don’t even realize obesity is an issue until it’s related to the health issues that become a factor,” Kelly Ploeger, a second year Hospitality major said, “my dad was diagnosed a with heart disease related to his weight problems. Since being diagnosed in January, he has lost 30 pounds and his heart disease is now reversing.”

It is important for students like Ploeger to see for themselves the emotional and physical impacts obesity can have a single person.

“As a college student living away from home, I have made a point to inform myself on nutrition and healthy living. The food options on campus are seriously not impressive, and if food addiction is present in my family than I want to be the one escaping it,” Ploeger said.

This past month, the United States Department of Agriculture has given a $3.75 million grant to use towards taking care of childhood obesity in the Latino community. With the given funding, a focus will be put towards research in obesity prevention and it will aim to increase Latino graduates with degrees in public health and nutrition as well.

"According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, overweight and obesity prevalence in children and adolescents has tripled in the past 30 years, especially in many low-income and minority communities," states the Daily 49er.

In all hopeful perspectives, the action taken will only see positive outcomes in the state and local communities.

“It has made our entire family more health conscious, Ploeger continues, "my sister who was boarder-line obese has encorporated excercise into her daily routine to get her weight down. Even my mom has started cooking more healthy at home. It’s sad that it takes the scare of loosing a life to realize, but it always seems to be that way."