Obesity: Defining our role in the battle of the bulge!

While we have spent most of this year discussing many heath concerns such as bone & joint health, diabetes, and vitamin deficiencies, one very preventable health epidemic that we are facing worldwide is obesity. Given that this is a time of year when most of us throw any diets out the door and indulge in sweets, holiday feasts, and stay indoors due to cold weather, it’s imperative that we discuss staying in good physical condition during the holidays and for the rest of your lives.

A week ago, CNN published an eye-opening article that discussed the global obesity epidemic. A report was recently conducted by nearly 500 researchers from 50 countries who compared data from 1990 to 2010 and revealed that every country, with the exception of those in sub-Saharan Africa, faces alarming obesity rates — an increase of 82% globally in the past two decades. And while some of you may think it’s not that big of deal, it’s just extra weight; well this extra weight leads to a multitude of health issues. Obesity is the leading cause of non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke and even immobility.

The same report also estimated that these non-communicable diseases will end up costing more than $10 trillion dollars over the next 20 years. That’s a lot of money spent on diseases that can be prevented. When fast food was first introduced, it seemed to be the greatest idea since the light bulb, but now, we see that it has created the perfect environment for unhealthy food consumption. Of course fast food consumption is not the only reason for the obesity epidemic, we are now also living in world where kids don’t run around and play outside as much as they used to and where parents work full time jobs and don’t have time to prepare healthy meals every day. In order for us to live a healthy life, we have to make healthy choices.

The holidays are especially crucial in making sure we do what we can to stay healthy and also help those around us make smart choices. If you are looking to avoid gaining holiday weight, make sure you’re drinking lots of water, eating small and frequent meals, and making time for physical activities.



Best Wishes for Ultimate Health and Majestic Dreams!

Steve Wallach
CEO
AL International
Helping YOU Live Younger, Longer!

“Resolve Today to Make the Best Use of Tomorrow”

SOURCE: 1http://www.cnn.com/2012/12/13/health/global-burden-report/index.html?hpt=he_t4