We all have heard the studies, seen it in the news and watched stories on the T.V. about our country's weight problem. I thought about the poor people who struggle to get out of their car, through a door way or sit in one of those little air plane seats. I was shocked to find out that I am overweight too, by governmental standards anyway.
Most of these studies use a tool called Body Mass Index (BMI). It is a number calculated from a person's weight and height. At the time of my picture, I weighed in at 190 pounds and considered myself physically fit. I typed my weight and height into the calculator and boom there was my number 26.5 (25-29.9 is considered overweight, 30 and above is considered obese). According to a 2009 study, I am not alone in my overweight status.
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Overweight and Obesity Rates for Adults by Sex, 2009 |
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| IL % |
US % |
|
| Male | 72.0% | 69.3% |
| Female | 54.9% | 52.7% |
I'm personally a little concerned about the creditability of these studies that rely solely on BMI. While BMI is a fast and easy way to assess relative body fat content, its limitations question the effectiveness and appropriateness to access a person's or population's weight status (especially in athletes).
Putting these studies behind us; I think it is extremely important that people adopt healthy eating habits and incorporate exercise into their daily living habits. Doing so can reduce the risk of several chronic conditions including hypertension, diabetes and heart disease. USDA recently released their new food plate (not a pyramid anymore). You check it out by going to http://www.choosemyplate.gov/. There you can find the latest recommendations on fruits, vegetables, grains, meat and dairy. You can also get weight loss information, plan a menu and submit questions on their site.
Thanks in part to our farmers, we have the safest, most affordable, most abundant food in the world. Take advantage of the wonderful opportunity to select healthy foods for you and your family. Don't forget local Farmers Markets as well, they provide a great opportunity to get fresh fruits and vegetables.
This article represents the views of Dan Volkers, Manager McHenry County Farm Bureau.
