Louisiana Leads Nation in Obesity

Obesity is becoming an increasing concern nation wide. A new report puts the bayou state at the top of the list as the most overweight state in the country. Unfortunately, this epidemic does not come as a surprise. Louisiana has been on the top five list for years and without any signs of stopping being informed is crucial. Fast food restaurants are everywhere you look and fried foods are apart of our culture. In less than 20 years, the obesity rate has more than doubled in the state. Residents like Mary Ann Freeman arent surprised, she said, "I think that were rather lazy and we eat too much." Experts say trimming the problem needs to start with our youth. Improved physical education classes in schools and adopting better eating classes are needed to slim Louisiana. Dr. Wilson Campbell, professor at ULM said, "How many foot paths do you see where people have the chance to be physically active, how many bike tracks do you see where people and young kids can ride their bikes. If you look at our food in this area you know we love fried foods" Contrary to many beliefs, dieting isnt the long term answer. Dr. Campbell said, "People really have to adopt a new attitude and understand that to be healthy its something that you have to work at and to really gain the benefits from it you have to do it for a life time" Dr. Campbell points to commitment as a long term fix, he says being committed to a healthier life will make the difference.