Feeding An Epidemic: America's Obesity and Health Care Crises

Obesity is rapidly becoming the most serious threat to American health. At the same time, health care costs are exploding, accounting for almost 20% of our annual GDP. According to current estimates, over half of the U.S. population is overweight, and soon over half will be obese. Every year, diseases linked to obesity, heart attack, and stroke, kill millions and cost billions of dollars. By some estimates around 80% of these obesity-related disorders are preventable and/or reversible.

America also has a serious food problem. We are addicted to the convenience of the drive-thru and pizza delivery. To increase market share, food companies have added calories, salt, sugar, and fat to their menus to increase consumption of their products. As a result, many Americans have developed food addictions. What is more, the pharmaceutical and diet supplement industries make it difficult for consumers to make informed decisions about their own health.

This book expands on the insights of previous works, making similar arguments. It also expands upon previous books with new data and updated research. Every year, the medical community is elucidating even more ties between diet and health. Some of those insights are presented within.

There are solutions to the paired obesity and health care crises. To work, they need to be multifaceted, focusing on mental, behavioral, and physical health. It will take buy-in from society at large, involving everyone from the government down to the consumer. It is time to recognize obesity as America's #1 health crisis.