by Barbara Davis

Created on: July 30, 2009   Last Updated: July 31, 2009

In this day and age, obesity is on the rise. The fact that the current nominee for Surgeon General is overweight simply shows that obesity is not an easy problem to solve. Many doctors, nurses, and other associated health care professionals are overweight or obese. It is our society, our food sources and manufacturers, and approach towards health care that are to blame.

Over a hundred years ago our food came from the ground, now it comes in boxes with bright pictures. Our food used to be naturally filled with fiber, now it is filled with sugar. Inexpensive food is not healthy.

Regina Benjamin is a well regarded Alabama physician. The fact that she also struggles with her weight may well prove to be a benefit. If she is struggling with her weight, she will be more determined to help others who struggle. She may bring about the changes needed to encourage our nation to get fit. She may also encourage food manufacturers to start producing healthier options as well.

The White House could make a true example out of her if she gets in shape while working as the Surgeon General. Let's let "change" begin with her. She could be a much more useful spokesperson if she can lose weight while in office. She can show America how to get in shape! Give her a change to inspire the nation to become healthier as she herself undergoes a fitness makeover.

In addition, it is important to view her overall knowledge base. Consider her experience on other issues involving healthcare. Where does she stand on the issues that are most important to your family in this day and age. How do you feel about her stance on abortion, drug use, AIDS, early childhood care, medical research tactics, etc? Obesity is just one aspect and also a personal medical issue that doesn't need to be legislated in order to be eliminated.

When considering a candidate for any position, it is best to view the person as a whole. Consider her experience, her character, her speaking ability and her committment to the administration she is being considered to serve. Also, consider whether or not her weight issue would matter to you if she was a man.

Considering our President struggles with smoking (which is a terrible example to our youth), it goes to show that even the most popular elected official can have a vice or two and still be considered by many to be an effective leader.

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