Are we overly accepting of excessive weight gain?
By: Taren Vaughan
One of the major health crises in the United States is obesity. Although the problem exists in all races, the problem is most prevalent amongst minorities. African Americans are one of the main groups of people who are heavily affected by obesity. More specifically, the obesity rates for black women are the highest compared to any other population. But why is that?
There are many contributing factors to our obesity issues. These things can include bad eating habits, lack of physical activity, genetics, lack of self esteem and self control. The obesity rates amongst blacks are increasing at a steady rate. But the most disturbing thing about obesity in the African American community is that it has become somewhat acceptable.
So when did we start glorifying being overweight? Just like the urge to be thin, it all stems from the media.
Popular comedian/actress Mo’Nique is known for promoting heavier women on shows like “Mo’Nique’s Fat Chance”. One of the things I do admire about Mo’Nique is how confident she is when it comes to her weight. It is not something that she dwells on. She accepts herself and she makes that known. But even Mo’Nique has realized that her health is more important than making a statement. Mo’Nique has recently lost a substantial amount of weight and seems to be keeping it off. Although Mo’Nique and others like her serve to boast the self esteem of heavier women, some women can take it absolutely too far.
Some women become way too comfortable with being overweight that they totally forget about their health. Being overweight to them is like a fashion statement. It makes them stand out from everyone else. Little do they know, there is a thin line between being overweight and becoming morbidly obese.
Despite what we may think, falling into the obese category is not hard to accomplish. According to the well known Body Mass Index, a person is considered overweight if their BMI is over 25. Individuals with BMI’s of 30 or greater are considered obese. Of course a person’s height, bone structure, body frame and muscle mass are not considered when calculating BMI’s, but the numbers are fairly accurate.
Aside from the vain reasons why people criticize the obese, there are dangerous health problems that are associated with being overweight. Carrying too much weight can lead to heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes and many other things.
No one is saying that a person should not be confident in their size. We should all learn to be comfortable with our bodies despite others’ opinions. Take pride in your physical appearance but do not put your life in danger trying to make a point.
Source: Minorityhealth