Changing a habit can feel like a nearly impossible task. Wearing a safety belt every time you are in the car or brushing your teeth twice a day are good habits to start and continue. Unfortunately, many Americans are engaging in poor eating (or nutrition) habits that are affecting our health, safety and overall well-being.
Recent data shows that with adults (20 years and over) 34.2% overweight, 33.8% are obese and 5.7% are extremely obese. Poor eating habits and lack of physical activity are the major contributing factors to overweight and obesity in the U.S.
Good eating habits start at birth. These habits will provide optimal nutrition for infants that will benefit them throughout their lives. Healthy eating can reduce the risk of chronic illness and disease including the three leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer and stroke.
- 37% of Americans have cardiovascular disease
- 34% of U.S. adults have hypertension, a major risk factors for stroke and heart disease
- 36% of American adults have prehypertension – blood pressure numbers that are higher than normal, but not in the hypertension range yet
- 41% of the population will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime
The World Health Organization stated that at least 80% of all heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes, and up to 40% of cancer could be prevented if people ate better, engaged in more physical activity and quit using tobacco.
Everyone should try to eat well and engage in physical activity. These habits are beneficial for all; whether you’re overweight, underweight or at a healthy weight. Simple changes can make a big impact on a person's well-being.