Obesity still a battle for Mississippians

Mississippi has once again claimed its title as being the fattest state in the nation, while states such as Colorado repeat as one of the leanest. The question that comes to mind is why is Mississippi so overweight?

Is it that Mississippians have a different perspective on what is considered overweight and what is considered healthy? Many Mississippians feel if a person is thin and does not have layers of fat, then this person may be malnourished. Could this thought process have developed from the fact that over 67 percent of the population is overweight or obese? Obesity is quite common in the state, and many view this as normal. There is nothing normal about obesity. Obesity is one of the leading causes of hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease and other health problems. The problems that obesity causes have been strongly emphasized for decades. Why then is obesity still on the rise?

Let’s explore a few factors:

•Unhealthy eating habits: Mississippians tend to eat large amounts of food high in fat and cholesterol such as fried chicken, fried corn and fried pork chops. Southern recipes have the tendency to contain a large amount of grease and/or butter and are passed on from generation to generation. High blood pressure, diabetes and numerous other health problems are acquired through poor eating habits.

•Lack of exercise: Many feel that Mississippi’s hot, humid weather makes it difficult to take part in many outdoor activities such as biking, walking and running. This is merely an excuse as there many fitness centers that provide these activities indoors. However, there are many areas that lack jogging and bike trails.

•Sedentary lifestyle: Some people become overwhelmed with daily activities, including taking care of family members, and do not make time for exercise.

•Financial restraints: Though many Mississippians would like to eat healthier, healthy food choices tend to be more costly. A single mom with three children may find it cost effective to by a $5 pizza. However, I suggest cooking on Sunday for the week incorporating four vegetables and baked chicken. This would alleviate having to buy fast food.

Many of these factors may be reversed. We can start by improving our lifestyle choices. You can start with some changes. Start substituting fried foods for baked foods. For those who have little time to exercise, start using the stairs rather than the elevator. Instead of greasy fried foods try salads. Substitute whole wheat for white bread.

Small changes can help produce a healthier lifestyle. There is a new year ahead of us. Make it your best year ever!

Barbara Broadwater is the executive director of the Mississippi Against Obesity Foundation. Email her at maof1@yahoo.com.