by Ann Major

Created on: May 15, 2009   Last Updated: July 06, 2011

When lifestyles become "food-styles" , people become walking billboards, advertising excess and decadence. Widespread obesity has developed to pandemic proportions as society packs on the pounds, year after year.

Two-job families have fueled the need for fast food outlets. Having less time to cook, pizza has become a family staple. High tech advancements have made it unnecessary to exercise any part of our body except our fingers. Gadgets and toys which supposedly make life easier is actually making life too easy. When there is text-messaging, webcams and emails, why bother having human or social interaction? It can all be done via a machine. Why garner communication or a support system when there is endless food to fill that void?

Unfortunately, developing countries look upon Western excess as a "must have",  in their endeavor to emulate progressive Western culture. Concept of the good life is infiltrating their modest means. Countries such as China are making way for fast-food culinary delights. McDonald's, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and Starbucks are invading a country full of healthy thin people; labor is still mostly done manually, without the help of machines. Now young children are introduced to "Happy Meals" and "Chicken McNuggets", and buckets of deliciously fried chicken.

Changing Values

In Europe, afternoon siestas and extended winter vacations are still a tradition. Coffee at a sidewalk cafe or strolling in the village square is a habitual evening occurrence. Europeans work hard, but also know the virtue of balance in their lives.

In North America, working couples have little time for sit-down dinners or family physical activity. Oftentimes, machines entertain the children, limiting the need to play outside or get fresh air. Fatigue sets in, eating for comfort becomes frequent, and eating healthy is placed on the back burner.

Emotional Health

Food is panacea for most people's problems. Instead of talking out problems, people turn to food for companionship. When bored, people exercise their mouths instead. When where are parties, food is of paramount importance. Children are rewarded with food for good behavior, instead of verbal positive reinforcement. Food becomes a disciplinary measure for some. After a while, food becomes a person's friend, family, therapist, and sometimes God. No wonder people are obese!

Status Symbols

Luxury cars used to be status symbols for the rich. The new status symbol for the middle class is to walk into the office,

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