The Epidemic of Obesity - Essay Example

It has been estimated that in the United States of America two-thirds of the population has either increased weight or is suffering from obesity. Furthermore, it has been classified that one-third of the population belonging to the age group above twenty years is suffering from obesity (Weight-Control Information Network 2010).

            Many underlying factors have been leading to this problem. Increased consumption of fats and reduced burning of calories through exercise have resulted in obesity. Reduction in physical activities by children leads to an increase in obesity amongst the young generation. The advancement of technology has made the person more reliable on machines for all their works and has resulted in a reduction of physical activities. Video games and other forms of entertainment have made people more restricted to indoors and have led to a decrease in outdoor activities and games and hence resulting in aggravating the problem of obesity (Biddle et al 2009).

            The epidemic of obesity needs to be tacked with different measures. Physical activity needs to be promoted and awareness should be created amongst the people regarding the problems that may result due to this condition. Children should be trained in schools and sports activities should be encouraged amongst them. The media should also play a role by promoting activities and measures that can reduce this issue (Boyse 2008, Biddle et al 2009).

            My friend was suffering from the problem of obesity. I guided him to visit a nutritionist who would provide him with a healthy diet which would provide him with complete nourishment and at the same time the balanced diet would be short in calories as per his requirement. I also encouraged him to indulge in outdoor games and go for walks and choose to travel by foot to nearby places rather than drive.