Good news: The rate of adult obesity has finally stopped climbing in recent years, according to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Bad news: The obesity rate is still very high, with more than one-third of adults in the U.S. considered obese.
The CDC defines obesity as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight.
The new data shows that the obesity rate among adults in the U.S. has remained stable at 39.8% since 2015. This is the first time in more than a decade that the obesity rate has not increased.
While the stabilization of the obesity rate is good news, it is important to note that the obesity rate is still very high. More than one-third of adults in the U.S. are obese, and obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.
There are a number of factors that contribute to obesity, including poor diet, lack of physical activity, and genetics. However, the CDC says that the rise in obesity rates in recent decades is largely due to changes in the environment, such as the increased availability of processed foods and the decline in physical activity.
The CDC recommends a number of steps that people can take to maintain a healthy weight, including:
- Eating a healthy diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Getting regular physical activity
- Maintaining a healthy weight
The CDC also recommends that people talk to their doctor about their weight and health risks.
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