America is much fatter than we thought

A new study finds obesity rates of many US states are actually higher than previously thought. The research is based on doctors’ measurements of peoples’ height and weight. Previous reports were based on people’s own report. The problem is not that people underestimate their weight, but they overestimate their height. Previous reports said most states have rates under 30%, and no states have a rate over 40%.

The researchers conducted telephone surveys to get height and weight calculate BMIs. This led to underestimates of BMIs. It was reported that the overall obesity rate in the U.S. was 28%. However, according to a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, it was reported that the overall U.S. obesity rate is 34%. This is a discrepancy of 16.5 million people. This was a more accurate survey because it was measured by doctors rather than self-reported. One limitation – it does not allow state-level obesity estimates because the information collected is not tied to states.

In the new study, researchers used a new method for estimating state obesity rates. They used a statistical method that matched up data from both surveys. This included heights, weights, and states where people lived. 49 states had obesity rate of 30% or higher. Only Hawaii had obesity rate under 30%. A few states, including Louisiana and Mississippi, had obesity rates over 40%.

Current obesity maps underestimate adult obesity burden nationwide. They do not represent significant changes at the individual level, but can result in significant changes at population level. The obesity epidemic must be addressed – policy makers must have accurate state obesity estimates.

Obesity is not a disease, but it leads to a whole spectrum of diseases. In regards to waist line, women should be less than 35, men less than 40. Visceral fat can lead to metabolic syndrome, stroke, and heart disease. Obesity can also cause cancers, liver and gallbladder disease, sleep apnea and respiratory problems, osteoarthritis, and gynecological problems

Dr. Samadi’s ABC’s for increased metabolism:

A-ACTIVE: Exercise at least 3 days a week

B-BREAKFAST: Eating breakfast every day will jump start your day

C-COFFEE: 2 cups a day can boost your metabolism

D-DIET: Focus on healthy choices instead of restricting yourself

E-EARLY SLEEP 7 hours a night

F-FIBER: 3 servings a day

G-GREEN TEA

H-H20 (WATER): 6-7 Cups a day

I-INPUT OF ORGANIC FOOD Avoid pesticides they decrease your metabolism