Two recent reports highlight the growing problem with worldwide obesity rates, especially in the West, and one possible explanation that has nothing to do with diet! One study compared the obesity rates from 1980 with 2008. In 1980 the numbers were roughly half of what they are today. There were about five percent of men and eight percent of women in the obese category. By 2008, the numbers had risen to 10 percent for men and an incredible 14 percent for women.
With the rise in obesity rates comes a corresponding rise in a multitude of other health problems from diabetes to heart disease. Health professionals are bracing for an epidemic of heart disease. The cost alone, both in dollars and satisfaction of life, are staggering.
If you are noticing a rise in the numbers on the scale and a tightening of your clothing, now is the time to do something about it!
Another study done in London has linked obesity rates to increased climate control in offices and homes throughout the developed world. The researchers at University College in London conclude that the widespread use of central heating and air conditioning has lessened the amount of time people spend in a natural range of temperatures and that this has disrupted the energy balance in our bodies. They believe that warm indoor temperatures in the winter reduce the body's energy expenditure leading to excess weight gain. This is completely independent of diet and exercise and is based on metabolic rates slowing.
So, once again, we have evidence that the modern lifestyle in all its aspects may be contributing to the rise in obesity rates. Everything from hormone mimicking chemicals causing weight gain to a diet of fast food is getting the blame. What can you do to counteract the influences of modern living?
One positive step is daily walks outside, no matter what the weather. When it is winter, be sure you are dressed warmly with adequate winter shoes, but go ahead and venture out in the cold for your walks. Resist going to the mall or other indoor place to do walking or exercise. Studies have shown that walking outdoors is more beneficial for both health and weight loss.
Other considerations in assuring that the diet you choose will really help speed weight loss and good health is avoiding processed foods full of artificial ingredients, fats and sugars. Did you know that most low-fat salad dressing and other food items compensate by adding large amounts of sweeteners? Although there may be less fat, you won't be cutting calories at all. Don't be fooled by the front of food labels; flip the box or container around and actually read the ingredients and study the nutrition labels.
It just takes a few changes in daily habits to speed weight loss and quickly get you on the path to a slimmer, healthier body! Your heart will thank you for it!
Monique Hawkins is an enthusiastic advocate for the use of safe and effective high quality, natural, alternative health products to treat and prevent heart disease. To learn about how to prevent and treat heart disease naturally, visit her blog for weekly tips at moniquerhawkins.com Heart Patient Diet Plan
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