Such a sad statistic!
According to a new study, the obesity rate in the U.S. is climbing so fast that 42% of Americans will be considered obese in the near future.
Researchers say that a big contribution to the obesity problem is socializing. For instance, a person who socializes with an obese person is more likely to gain weight. New data from the Framingham Heart Study shows that “obesity appears to spread, almost the same way an infectious disease does.”
However, Dr. Michael Wolfe, chairman of the Department of Medicine at MetroHealth in Cleveland sees it both ways, regardless of whether or not your friends are fat or thin. He says:
“I’m a basic scientist for a reason. In these kinds of studies, you’ll find the exact opposite next week. If everyone around you is obese, it becomes more socially acceptable to be obese. Aberrant behavior is more acceptable when others do it.
A more positive way to look at it is that it’s in your own best interest to help your friends lose weight.”
That’s actually extremely valuable advice. It definitely helps to surround yourself around supportive people who will help you in your fitness goals.
[Image via AP Images.]
