Individual Accountability

Should society as a whole be penalized for the poor choices of an individual's eating habits, or should that person take it upon themselves to engage in a healthier life style? In September 2012, Congress proceeded to pass a bill that would end childhood obesity.  Recently, Michelle Obama and her committee have made it their duty to deprive America of king sized candy bars. Government is taking action against the food we all eat. Instead of focusing on those who need the help, the government is focusing on society as a whole. This doesn't really seem like a big deal to a majority of people, but I feel differently. Why should I pay the price of people who eat unhealthy, and don't take the time to involve themselves in physical activity? Simply put, the obesity problem in America isn't caused by what America eats, but rather the sedentary life that many people live.



Present day America is so fast paced, revolving around electronics and tv, that no one takes the time to take care of themselves anymore. Instead of sitting on the couch for 4-5 hours of the day, I'd recommend spending at least an hour a day participating in some sort of activity. Whether it be going for a walk, or heading to the gym, make sure to burn off those calories. The physical activity doesn't need to be anything grand, just something to get the heart rate up, and burn off calories. If you like to watch tv, then make up a cardio routine to your favorite tv show. Many people make the argument that "they don't have enough time" or their "schedule is too packed," well there's a simple fix to that, too. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, or park further away from your office building and walk the extra 200 steps. The activity itself doesn't matter as long as you're getting the exercise your body needs. Dedicating a solid hour to activeness a day will help the obesity epidemic, while leading Americans to be happier and more proud of the way they look.

Granted, the food in America isn't the greatest, and definitely not the healthiest. Living in a world where Mc Donalds is considered a substantial meal just proves America's obesity problem. I, myself, used to eat Mc Donalds on a regular basis, I mean it's quick, easy, and enjoyable. However, I believe the food we eat still isn't all there is to blame for America's obesity problem. I think the real reason for this issue is the lack of exercise and time spent exercising for the amount of calorie consumption a person intakes on a daily basis. If a person eats over 2000 calories a day, and doesn't do any activity, that person is gaining weight daily. Spending less time eating, and more time working out and exercising your body will surely lower your chance of obesity and make you feel better about yourself. It's not always about what you eat, but what you do to burn it off. A person can enjoy any meal they want without feeling guilty if they were to exercise for the appropriate amount of time. Just make sure to not go overboard with the exercising. Keep it safe and fun, and you'll enjoy yourself more, and have more satisfaction in what you eat.