Why Are Americans Gaining So Much Weight?

Each year, an estimated 300,000 US adults die of causes attributable to obesity. Americans spend an estimated $33 billion every year on weight loss products and services. Still, the percentage of children and adolescents who are defined as “overweight” has more than doubled since the early 1970s.

So why are we still gaining so much weight?

There are at least three key factors driving obesity in the United States today:

1. Working Life Has Changed
   With the advent of cellphones, computers and email Americans are working more and moving less. In the early 1900s, many individuals made their living through manual labor. Today, more than 50% of the workforce sits in front of the computer for upwards of 8 hours a day – burning few calories and moving very little.
2. Food is Everywhere
   Fast food restaurants seem to be on every corner. In 1970 Americans spent about $6 billion on fast food. In 2000, they spent more than $110 billion. So not only are we working longer hours at less physically demanding jobs we’re also eating more junk food.
3. Society is Sedentary
   Employed adults work an average of 47 hours a week. The typical American also spends almost 17 hours in front of the television. Calculating in an average of 50.6 hours of sleep a week, there are 113 sedentary hours per week.

Luckily, a weight loss of just 5-10% in excess body weight can significantly reduce risk factors and provide health benefits.

If you need help losing weight our experienced, certified personal trainers can help you get active without the hassle of gym membership. If your diet is unbalanced and out of control, members of our Nutrition and Weight Loss Program can design a personalized diet and nutrition program to help accelerate your weight loss.