The Problem of Obesity in America - Literature review Example

Obesity: who is responsible? Response Essay The problem of Obesity in America was not of much importance in the early ages, but as years have passed a gradual rise in the number of obese people has been seen. Obesity is viewed as a problem because it poses a threat to the lives of people. It can be termed as a carrier for diseases to happen in the body of individuals. It is known in medical terms that obesity is the irregular accumulation of fat at weak positions inside the body (points like veins and arteries). Obesity is by definition “an increase in fats” (Fletcher, Grundy and Hayman). And obesity is known to be a major cause of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes in individuals. This shows that the problem not only affects the physique of a person but also his inner environment of the body. Thus it can altogether be termed as lethal. Regardless of such harmful effects of unhealthy high calories food what makes the vast population choose such intake? Who is responsible for the millions of people having medical issues related to obesity and overweight? This paper would answer these questions by critically analyzing the works of 3 writers who stated these issues brilliantly. In his article ‘Don’t Blame the Eater’, David Zinczenko criticizes both consumers and buyers of fast food industry. Most of the people put the blame of their mistakes on others without knowing and realizing the mistakes or wrongs done by them. The facts and figures show that America, as well as other countries around the globe, is strongly affected by the problems of obesity. David Zinczenko defines unawareness about obesity as one of the causes of an increasing rate of obese people. It is in fact true. People often do not care about how much calories they take per day and what the recommended level of calories intake is. They are unaware of the amount of fats, proteins, fibers and calories that their body requires. They take eating as an important daily activity and prefer taste over healthiness. This attitude towards daily food intake clearly shows the unawareness about health and nutrition facts and requirements. In addition, a majority of the population is unaware of the devastating effects of obesity. To understand the extent of the problems of obesity related issues it is important to discuss the statistics linked with it. Yves Engler provides a detailed view of the problem that started and grew rapidly around the world. The writer asserts that the obese elderly population has been doubled in United States since 1990. The research made by Yves Engler also reveals that obesity alone is responsible for more than 30 medical issues which include cardiac diseases, hypertension, cancer, diabetes and many other serious illnesses. The problems of obesity cost a lot to the people in terms of their health and governments in order to cure those health related issues of public. An estimate of $120 billion is spent annually to treat obesity related issues. These figures reveal the devastating effects of obesity which is caused by overeating or junk food consumption in excessive amounts. What then motivates people to adopt such intake which causes obesity and other life risking diseases? The first factor that may be responsible for such dietary habits is the easy availability of junk food. It is not difficult to believe this argument presented by David Zinczenko. People have access to fast food restaurants on almost every street. The easy access and wonderful presentation of these restaurants grab the attention of the passerby in the first glance. The areas chosen by fast food restaurant owners are normally surrounded by a lot of people including students, employees and those who are out for shopping. Another reason proposed by David Zinczenko is the lack of responsibility of parents and elders who fail to provide healthy homemade food to children from their childhood. In US people are often busy at their workplaces and children do not find any good alternative to deal with their hunger but to opt for some easily reachable fast food restaurant. However, it is not true to say that the rising levels of obesity are based on irresponsibility factor as John H. Banzahf clearly state that there is no decrease observed in the parental responsibility and care in the past 15-20 years. Another main criticism is against the fast food restaurants and unhealthy products’ suppliers that they target children and younger generation as they have little or no knowledge about the risks associated with unhealthy eating. Both David Zinczenko and John H. Banzahf agree to this point that their marketing strategies are actually designed to target the younger population. Other studies also clearly prove this claim hence it is not justifiable to deny it. The unavailability or inaccessibility of healthier food also leads to bad dietary habits as people are then compelled to eat what they can easily get. All three authors suggest including the information related to each food on the menu or at the place where the consumer can easily read them. They suggest not hiding the information about the food they are opting for. In addition, they suggest disclosing how unhealthy the food is. However, my personal opinion is to avoid such an action. This would not lead to an overall good condition of the obesity problem. Even if they disclose all the worst facts and unhealthy effects of the food provided by them, people might still go for it. The possible reason is the inaccessibility and limited choices of healthier food. It is not a wise decision to close the fast food restaurants or to make it more difficult for the people to find breakfast or lunch in their busy schedule. It is rather a good motive to make healthier foods available with all the positive effects disclosed and properly advertised near offices, schools, shopping centers and even near junk food providing restaurants and shops. The statistics and attitudes of people after this step would be important for future planning. It is, however, a good suggestion to make necessary changes in the food menu of restaurants. Some healthier food choices may make it easier for the people to choose between life and death or health and taste. In addition, I completely disagree with the statement that fast food restaurants or advertising campaigns that target children are solely responsible for the worst conditions of obesity. It is the government, schools, parents, health departments and NGOs that are negligent. Why not take a step to increase awareness? Why not to make healthier food choices available for the public? Why to put burden on others rather than changing yourself? All these questions need answer. The points need more concentration not of the researchers but of the people who are facing the problems related to obesity. No one can help people unless they want to help themselves. In conclusion, we can say that undoubtedly obesity is affecting the whole environment of the society by making the individuals more prone to health related problems. It is not only affecting health of the individuals but also the processes of physical properties in our daily lives. Life can come to a standstill if all the individuals in the world become obese this is because obese people do not tend to involve in physical processes. Further it can be said that it is of immense importance that this problem is curbed. People must be given proper education related to health issues and concerns. There is a need to start awareness campaigns about obesity and its curses. In addition, more food choices must be made available all around the country to improve the condition. Bibliography: Zinczenko, David. “Don’t Blame the Eater.” The New York Times, November 23, 2002. Engler, Yves. “Obesity: Much of the Responsibility Lies With the Corporations.” Z Magzine. (2003) Banzahf, H. John. “Lawsuits Against Fast-Food Restaurants are an Effective Way to Combat Obesity.” (2003) Fletcher, Gerald F., Scott M. Grundy, and Laura Lucia Hayman. Obesity: Impact on Cardiovascular Disease. American Heart Association Monograph series. Armonk, NY: Futura Pub, 1999. Read More