Yesterday on one of the news channels the top story was about the rising cost of health care. The study by government scientists and the nonprofit research group RTI International found that medical spending for an obese American averages $1,400 more a year than for someone of healthful weight. They also found that overall obesity-related health care spending has reached nearly $150 billion a year, roughly double what it was a decade ago!!!! (So much for "your Take Shape program and/or your T-Tapp classes and DVD's costs too much" argument)
The report also found the rate of obesity increased nationally by 70 percent over the past decade, and it echoed previous findings that more than half of Americans are either overweight or obese. That makes them prone to diabetes, heart disease, cancer and other ailments that are driving U.S. health care costs into the stratosphere.
These are incredibly sobering facts. And we all know it's true. All we have to do is look around us. This isn't just a problem of vanity or looking good in our size 8 jeans. This is part of our economic crisis. And it requires solutions of global proportion.
Here's an interesting fact. On that same news channel, during the same hour as these new statistics are being released, the "news" people did a segment on preparing the perfect key lime pie. It wasn't just key lime pie. It also had a chocolate fudge topping. I'm sure that was to entice the entire female population who is convinced chocolate is it's own food group. And who will tell you about how it's a great source of anti-oxidants.
But unfortunately we have learned that statistics don't change behavior. People change behavior. And the start of a behavior change is getting clear on what YOU want. Do you WANT to be part of this national statistic? Or do you want to be one of the people who WANT optimal health in their life?
Key lime pie with fudge topping and a side of diabetes? Or a "lean and green" meal and energy to spare? In any given moment it's our choice.
What will your choice be today?
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