The Basics

Learning the basic facts about the obesity epidemic is the first step toward turning the trend around. Find out more about the ways that food and weight play into almost every facet of American life.

  • What is Obesity?

    Obesity is a chronic illness in the United States that has reached epidemic proportions within the past two decades. Learning the basic facts about the obesity epidemic is the first step toward turning the trend around.

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  • Weight Loss

    The U.S. diet industry generates over $60 billion in annual sales, yet most people who diet struggle to lose weight and keep it off. Find out what weight loss strategies work and how to recognize passing fads.

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  • Eat Better

    Diets high in saturated and trans fats, sodium and added sugars and low in fiber increase chronic disease risk, while eating a healthy diet decreases this risk.34

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  • Move More

    Only about 18% of adults get the total amount of physical activity recommended for good health; 36% get no physical activity.

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  • The Food System

    Everyone makes choices about what to eat. The food system influences which choices are available.

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  • Healthy at Work

    Most adults spend a large portion of each day at work. Creating work environments that support wellness can go a long way toward improving the nation’s health.

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  • Schools & Early Care

    American children spend more than 1,100 hours in school or early care every year. Learn how these environments can help prevent childhood obesity and promote wellness.

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  • Stress & Support

    Do you eat more when you are feeling emotional or stressed? Do you eat differently when you’re with certain friends or family members? Learn about how these influences impact your weight, and how you can create a healthier personal environment!

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  • Screens and Technology

    People use screens every day—at work, at school, relaxing at home, and when travelling. Why limit screen use?

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  • Marketing Food to Children

    Every day, children ages 2-17 see, on average, 12-21 TV commercials for food products. That’s 4,400-7,600 commercials a year. And 98% of what they’re seeing advertises foods high in fat, sugar, and/or salt.

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  • Obesity Research

    Researchers continue to discover the many factors that contribute to obesity while developing and testing new prevention and treatment strategies.

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