HBO Examines America’s Obesity Crisis With ‘The Weight of the Nation’ Documentary
Registered Dietician
| 2 min read
Earlier this week I had the opportunity to pre-screen one part of a four-part HBO documentary series called The Weight of the Nation at the Boll Family YMCA in Detroit. We watched the third installment about childhood obesity called “Children in Crisis.” The series debuts Monday, May 14 at 8 p.m. and continues May 15. I am definitely interested in watching all the other films as well.
There is no doubt that there is a huge problem in America. Over two thirds of adults age 20 or older are overweight or obese. More than a third of children between the ages of 2 and 19 are also overweight or obese. Research has proven that obesity contributes to five of the 10 leading causes of death in the U.S. (heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, cancer, stroke and kidney disease). There is no one solution to the problem, and there are many different factors that impact us, from our environment to busy lifestyles, from advertising to government and more. In our society, vanity, aesthetics and looking good are highly valued, but in the end our health is more important. I agree that there are many different body shapes and sizes and that good health doesn’t necessarily mean “skinny,” but we must all do our part for better health.
The documentary is a collaboration between HBO, the Institute of Medicine, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institutes of Health. Check out the trailer below.
Is this series of documentaries something you would be interested in seeing? Remember we all need to be a part of the solution for a healthier and happier America. We can do it.
