Obesity, a Fat Lie

Obesity: A Fat Lie

Grantham University

Katherine Walker

Obesity is more prevalent today than ever before. The debate continues as to whether obesity is or is not a disease. There are many arguments on both sides of the issue. Though there are those who view obesity as a disease, obesity is a reflection of lifestyles today as compared to lifestyles 40 plus years ago, obesity is a matter of personal responsibility, and obesity does not necessarily impair normal functioning of a body as other diseases do. (Procon.org, 2014)

Obesity is, in part, a reflection of today’s lifestyles and personal health choices, not an illness or disease. (Procon.org, 2014) Today we have the convenience of not only “fast food” but the drive thru option at fast food restaurants which makes eating, and not healthfully, that much more convenient. We grab that fast food then commute to work in our private vehicles, many of us sit at desk jobs throughout the day, we sit in front of the television, game console, or computer when we get home, and we are so busy, too busy, to make time for the gym. Not making time for the gym is really something that can catch up with an individual if they’re not careful.

Notice I said “make time” instead of “find time” when referring to the gym. Getting to the gym is not a matter of finding time, as everyone has the same 24 hours in their day. Getting to the gym is a matter of making time and prioritizing one’s health when it comes to exercise; something I think a lot of people fail to do. If folks were to make the choice to get up earlier before work to hit the gym or swing by the gym before heading home after work, imagine the lifestyle changes which would occur. First, we get to the gym and before we know it we’ve got gym buddies. Those gym buddies encourage our health and fitness. We become motivated and excited due to their encouragement and we push ourselves. Before we know it there goes one, two, three pounds, and it’s a glorious...