The Obesity Epidemic: Who’s Fault Is It?

For starters, I’m obese. So, if you are, too, know that when it comes to body size, you’ll get no shaming or judgment from me.

Personally, I’m to blame for my obesity. I eat and drink generously, and I rarely exercise. But I enjoy my life as it is, I’m in relatively good health, and I’m generally in a pleasant mood.

I know all of that could change in a minute, but for now, I’m willing to take that chance. My lifestyle is my choice, and I’ll alter it if and when I must. I have longevity in my genes, and I’m banking on that.

Besides personal choice, who or what else can we point the finger of blame for the obesity epidemic?

Restaurants and their portion sizes are also partially responsible for our obesity. Today, a meal for one can feed two people, unlike years ago when portion sizes were reasonable. Now, portions are so large that my wife and I often share an entree when dining out, and we still have leftovers.

Our sedentary lifestyle should also be examined as a cause of obesity, particularly in children. Instead of rushing outside to run and play after school, our kids now reach for the gaming console and sit for hours before dinner is served. Weekends aren’t much different for many kids.

Unfortunately, our society is also to blame for some people’s obesity. In the city in which I live, there are poverty-stricken areas devoid of grocery stores. Residents often lack transportation to and from a food store and must resort to buying junk food at the local convenience store or eating a nutritionally deficient fast food meal.

If you have the means, consider donating food or money to your local food bank. Many of them have mobile distribution points in poorer neighborhoods. Your donation can help someone eat healthier and not go to sleep on an empty stomach.