The Endocrine Society and the Hormone Organization have a web site that is devoted to providing information about the epidemic of obesity that is plaguing America today: Obesity in America, which they describe as a clearinghouse for those seeking information on the key scientific trends and advancements. I read that last statement as people looking (hoping) for the “silver bullet” that will allow them to keep eating as much as they want of the standard American diet.
Some key statistics From the CDC regarding obesity:
- In 2008, about one-third of U.S. adults were obese.
- The medical costs associated with obesity in 2008 were estimated at $147 billion.
Rather than waiting for a scientific miracle, these people would be much better off starting today with a small permanent change in lifestyle that they can live with for the rest of their lives. Like eating a little more protein and a little less sugar each day or maybe exercising for just five minutes. It’s human nature — the small changes last and the big ones don’t. As far as weight loss goes, it’s slow and steady that wins the race.