2. Obesity
2. ObesityThe number on the scale impacts more than just physical appearance. Many Oklahomans struggle in this area, as more than 30 percent of Oklahomans fall into the obese category.
Physicians use body mass index (BMI) to calculate a person’s healthy weight range, comparing weight in relation to height.
“(The body mass index) is an imperfect method, as it does not take into account the actual body fat percentage of an individual,” says John Friedl, the physical activity and nutrition manager at the Center for the Advancement of Wellness with the Oklahoma State Department of Health.
BMI is the best method currently available, says Friedl, but defining the risks of carrying too much weight on the body is a murky and complex subject.
“For example, a person with a ‘healthy’ weight who consumes a lot of fat and sodium and is not active could potentially be less healthy than an individual moderately overweight that consumes a healthy diet and meets physical activity recommendations,” explains Friedl. “An individual could be classified as overweight but perform healthy behaviors and be considered ‘fit,’ as well as have healthy markers.”
He adds that typically, increased weight accompanied by unhealthy behaviors can spell an increase for chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. A high risk for heart attack, stroke and certain types of cancer are known to be impacted by obesity. Obesity also impacts quality of life.
“There are also financial concerns,” adds Friedl. “Obese individuals typically spend more annually on health expenses than their normal-weight counterparts.”
Small changes matter. A balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, low-fat dairy and plenty of water combined with physical activity have a significant impact on health.
“From a health standpoint, we prefer good health and healthy behaviors over the ‘societal beauty’ that is perhaps not eating right and exercising the way they should,” says Friedl.
The good news is that Oklahoma’s population has exhibited a positive trend in this complex area in the past few years.
“Prior to 2011, Oklahoma was projected to have the highest rate of obesity in the coming years due to the aggressive rate of increase,” says Friedl.
However, that projected increase has not occured. According to Friedl, fewer Oklahomans are transitioning into the obese category each year.
Oklahoma is making progress, but more work needs to be done. Initiatives like the Oklahoma Health Improvement Plan, Healthy Oklahoma 2020, seek to ensure that the healthy choice is the easiest choice for all Oklahomans.
