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The Obesity Epidemic Of Obesity

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Obesity has always been a topic that many have had due to the increase attention it has received. Across America, there has been a lot of attention on the obesity epidemic. In America and the inner cities, more people are eating meals away from home in addition to consuming larger portions from fast food restaurants. At this rate, gaining weight is the likely outcome. High energy dense food has become convenient and affordable. Fast food is almost everywhere in America and, contributes to the growing obesity epidemic. Access to healthy foods are either expensive or have a limited access to it. For example, soda is everywhere for low costs, but coconut water is expensive or not found easily depending on the demand for it. Our environment …show more content…

Another factor is the media focus on fast food and huge portions of food being served everywhere. These large portions exceeds the recommended amount of calories for the whole day. Current trends show that children consume low amounts of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Although in time more activities and sports are being created, it is shown that many children spend six hours or more watching television, using their tablet/computer and phone. (Adult Obesity Facts, 2016) . Many children also consume about 172-300 kcal/day of sugar-sweetened beverages, which exceed the recommended amount. (Childhood Obesity Facts,2016)One of the key drivers of obesity is energy imbalance. More people are consuming sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB), larger portion sizes, fast food, and interacting less in physical activity. Another determinant is the convenience of energy dense food and the affordability. Most importantly, people live in an environment that is not conducive to physical activity. It is also shown that adults are not being as activate too that would lead to chronic diseases. In NYC Community Health Profile, conducted in 2015, adults in East New York have the highest rate of diabetes (New York City Community Health Profiles, 2016). In addition, 34% of adults consume one or more than twelve ounce sugary drink per day, and 81% of adults consume at least one serving of fruits and vegetables per day

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