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.