Monday, July 18, 2011

We are now a nation that is 1/3 fat.

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In 2006, only the state of Mississippi had an adult obesity rate above 30 percent.  Now, 12 states are above 30 percent.  The rest, with exception of Colorado, is above 20 percent.  Here in Indiana, it is 29.1 percent.  That means it will be very difficult for you to look a 3 random people on the street and not see someone who is not overweight.  While this is good news for the local gyms and fad diet programs, it is bad news for the Navy.


Recently while working with a personal trainer, he corrected my views about genetics and body fat.  He told me there is a correlation between your body fat and your genetics.  5% of your natural body composition comes from your Mom and Dad.  The other 95% comes from your choice of lifestyle.  I thought the percentage was a little higher for genetics.  This just goes to show you that your health is in your own hands.  Sure, you can argue that Grandma and Grandpa struggled with their weight.  You can say Mom and Dad struggle also.  Well, let’s look at the lifestyle factor.  If Mom and Dad grew up in a house with overweight parents, they may have adopted their parent’s lifestyle.  Since we grew up in our parents’ home, we probably adopted our parent’s lifestyle.  If you fall into this category, you have the power to make a positive change in your life, as well as the lives of your family.

I encourage each and every one of you to evaluate the food you eat and your personal activity levels.  Don’t make a change for the Navy, make it for your families.

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