Prevalence of Obesity in the USA - Essay Example

Big size of the budget on farm subsidies is spent on crops like wheat, corn, soybeans, rice and cotton. (Edwards). This is how nutritionists link obesity to farm subsidies. The products made from these crops are mostly unhealthy and contribute to the disease. Data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey shows 35.7% of adults and 17% of children and adolescents are obese. (Ogden) Americans have been battling obesity for a long time.

One cause of the disease is eating unhealthy foods. I do not agree that farm subsidies should be blamed for American’s obesity problem. It is true that farm subsidies make food items cheap. However, Americans can choose not to buy these foods. Farm subsidies are not forcing consumers to buy their products. Currently, there are other healthier options in the market. There are Americans who are not obese by choice. If an individual really wanted to overcome obesity, it should not start and stop with just food choices.

Also, the fast-food industry should be challenged into creating a menu more health-friendly. Fast food is a necessary aspect of American culture because of how busy people are. Despite this, I believe sufficient research on the part of these fast food companies will enable them to create fast food items that are nutritious as well. Lastly, continuous information about the dangers of obesity and its causes should be given to schools and neighbourhoods. The media can help with this. I think if people are constantly reminded about obesity they will start eating for their health and not for their convenience.