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Obesity is a growing problem in our country. According to a recent study, obesity is an illness that affects about 60 million people in the United States. Women are mostly affected by it. African and Mexican American women between the ages of 20 and 74 make up for more than a third of the obese population. Over the last 20 years there has been an intense upsurge of heaviness in the United States.

There are many contributing factors to why so many Americans are overweight. Genetics, environment, and the availability of fast food are just some of them.

Obesity tends to run in families. Parents pass this illness down to there children whom are often over weight themselves. The person may have difficulty metabolizing calories, which makes it harder for him or her to lose weight or maintain a normal weight.

Eating out has been linked to obesity in America. According to the Food and Drug administration, a report in 2006 showed that people who are obese tend to eat out more frequently. Studies have shown that when people go out to eat, they consume more food. When people go to a restaurant, they receive larger portions of food. According to research, studies have shown that when a person sees more food on there plate, they will eat it even when they are full. The large portions are often too large. If you go to place like "Apple Bees" the plates are often filled to there highest capacity. There are more carbohydrates and proteins than vegetables on the plate. Places like China do not have obesity problems because they offer smaller portions. There diets consist of raw or cooked fish and vegetables.

If you look at the television, images of large portions of food are constantly being shown on the screen. The truth is that there are multiple reasons for America being overweight. We are part to blame for the obesity epidemic in this country. We are being encouraged to eat more than we need to.

Additionally, people do not know what the cooks are putting in there food. No one knows how much oil and butter is being used in the portions. No one knows how much saturated fat is being included.

The lifestyle of Americans is a big contributor as well. Most of us do not get enough exercise and rest. Studies have shown that lack of sleep slows down metabolism. Many Americans work full time jobs and do not have the time to eat breakfast in the morning. They usually get something "quick" on the way to the office. This usually consists of unhealthy treats such as donuts and cookies. Not eating breakfast is unhealthy and contributes to obesity. Studies show that many American's refrain from eating breakfast in the morning and consume more food at night. These kind of eating habits enable weight problems.

Overall, obesity is a problem in our country. It is up to us to solve the problem. We have to work together to become a healthier nation.

Learn more about this author, Angela Diggs.
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