Obesity in America: Large portions, large proportions

Published: January, 2006

Obesity is not a new problem. Forty years ago, 4 of every 10 Americans were overweight or obese. But obesity is a growing problem, and it's growing quickly; today, two of every three Americans need to lose weight. In the 1960s, obesity was an epidemic; today, it's a pandemic.

Why worry?

Most people worry about their weight because they want to look good. Appearance is important, but the consequences of being overweight go well beyond image and self-esteem. Excess body fat has serious consequences for the body's metabolism, including:

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