en-us Copyright 2008 - All Rights Reserved. Mon, 23 Nov 2009 02:09:05 GMT 15 By Alexandra Kramer and Katrina Cabrera

Many Americans today are suffering from diabetes, high cholesterol, and other health related problems due to obesity. Television programs like Shaq’s Big Challenge and The Biggest Loser are making this fact evident, and encouraging many to take action against it. “I think it has become a major issue because of the publicity surrounding the increasing numbers of overweight children and adults in our society. Also, in our health-conscious society, people are knowledgeable about the consequences of obesity on general health and emotional well being”, said Jane Lazarus psychologist at Nova Southeastern University. Health Academy leader, Ms. Glenda Algaze, added that not only is society being cautious about the health risks relating to obesity, but they have become obsessed. She made it a point to emphasize the large amounts of diet books and articles that are constantly being released. Shaq’s Big Challenge was designed to be a wake up call for one of the nation’s most dangerous issues; childhood obesity. Obesity can cause mental and physical problems. Children who are obese are also more likely to get Diabetes and may not be a socially evolved person. Furthermore, obesity can most likely begin at school were children are more prone to soft drinks and fast food. Everyday more and more physical education programs are being taken away from the curriculum. “Overweight children and adults are at greater risk for physical, psychological, social and academic problems. Stress and subsequent changes in brain chemistry are often the causes of emotional over-eating. The chemistry of emotions can drive people to overeat. Often we overeat because we are busy, stressed, mad, bored, etc. not just because we are hungry”, said Lazarus. Diabetes has also become a topic of conversation due to the fact that many health complications are more common in patients with obesity. “Diabetes, high blood pressure, heart conditions have all been linked to obesity. That is not to say, that if you are thin, you will not suffer from these conditions. However, being overweight increases your risk. Other related complications include high triglycerides and cardiovascular problems,” said Algaze. Some of these heart conditions may include strokes and heart attacks, both of which can be deadly. The question that stands now is “what can be done to stop the increasing number of obese patients?” According to Mrs. Algaze, you don’t have to spend money to be healthy. “Exercise. You are never too old or young to get moving. Yes, diet is important. However, If you commit to a good exercise plan, such as 10,000 steps per day, studies have shown that heart disease and its related complications can be reduced, if not eliminated,” she said. Get started and be committed. With a healthy diet plan and little exercise, the increasing number of obesity in society can be reduced and in turn help save lives. ]]> Fri, 09 Nov 2007 18:44:00 GMT