Eat healthy, be active, decrease obesity

Americans are fat and getting fatter. 

According to "F as in Fat: How Obesity Policies are Failing in America 2009" a report released by the Trust for America's Health, adult obesity increased in 23 states last year, including California.

Obesity is a continuing problem and it is only becoming worse.

However, we are in control of our own bodies and what goes in it, regardless of how busy or broke we may be.  Therefore, we can reverse the trend toward obesity in America.

We could preach all day about cutting back the mocha frappucinos and supersize fries but instead we have come up with five simple steps to help decrease the obesity problem and live a healthier life.

1. Eliminate fast food. McDonald's, Taco Bell and KFC may offer the best deals and are more convenient to fit our lifestyle.  Nevertheless, seven-layer burritos, Angus burgers and fried chicken will hurt you in the long run.  An extra crispy chicken breast tastes great, but will cost you 510 calories, according to the KFC nutritional website.  That is a fourth of the 2,000 calories a day limit for an adult.  Chicken is a good source of protein only if it is consumed in moderation.  So join the slow food movement instead.

2. Shop for whole foods.  Whole foods tend to be more expensive but they are better for us.  We know we should be eating healthier, but if we can't afford fresh food, then there is little we can do to change our eating habits.  However, Fresh and Easy, a different kind of supermarket, which offers better food with no added ingredients, no trans fat, and at a cost affordable for even the struggling college student.  Farmer's markets are also a great place to buy whole foods for super cheap.  Not only are the fruits and veggies fresh but also you will be supporting your local farmers.

3. Eat smaller portions.  Don't eat everything on your plate.  Eat just until that hungry feeling in your stomach goes away. You will consume smaller portions and your body will eventually adapt to the change.  Also, skip the second helping because it's extra calories your body doesn't need or want.  Remember, your goal is to maintain a healthy weight, not overindulge every time a good meal is placed in front of you.

4. Do 30 minutes of cardio workout at least three days a week.  A little exercise goes a long way. You don't have to be a gym rat to stay in shape.  Working out just half an hour every other day will help you see results.  However, it will take some effort.  Walking around the mall doesn't exactly count as exercise.  The goal is to increase your heart rate.  A little sweat never hurt anyone.

5. Choose water, not soda.  Do you know how much sugar is in soda? A 20-ounce regular coke has 17 teaspoons of sugar.  Sugar in soda is an unnecessary carbohydrate that you can eliminate from your diet.  Soda may fill you up, but because of the added sugar, it will cause you to gain weight.  Water has zero calories, allowing more room for a healthy, balanced nutrition.

Implement just one of these steps and you will begin to see your weight decrease almost immediately.

Try one of the rules until it becomes a habit.  Once you have mastered it, try a second.  Before you know it, you will be doing all five without even thinking about it.
Following these guidelines will save you money as well as help you look good for this summer, not to mention the rest of your life.

Let's change the way we are perceived and start on the road to living a better, healthier life.