6. Being overweight: A social issue
According to the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, deaths related to being overweight or obesity nearly doubled between 1985 and 2000. The obesity epidemic is primarily due to overeating and low physical activity levels.
Sedentary living
The environment we live in has a direct impact on our habits. In the last twenty-five years, human beings have changed the way they live. Our caloric intake has increased while physical activity has decreased. It's no wonder that obesity has become such a big problem.
Technological progress has played a substantial role in reducing the amount of calories we burn: cars, elevators, sedentary pastimes (e.g. video games, computers), automatic doors, home delivery (e.g. restaurants, supermarkets), drive-throughs etc. It’s never been easier to be sedentary!
Ready, set...consume!
At the same time, food is everywhere: movie theatres, television, video stores, magazines, gas stations, shopping centres, vending machines, etc. Supermarket shelves are piled high with prepared meals and foods laden in sugar and fat - often in super sizes.
The goal: healthy weight
Despite what some call our toxic environment, each of us has the power to grow old in good health. By gradually changing our own environment, we can improve our well-being and reduce our risks of chronic disease. Don't forget that time is the key to successfully changing your lifestyle habits.
