The Obesity Epidemic and the Costs of Commercial Cures

The statistics and data on the overweight and obesity rate in the U.S. is alarming. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is estimated that over two-thirds of American adults are overweight or obese with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 or greater and over one-third are obese with a BMI of 30 or greater. 

Based on information released by Marketdata Enterprises, Inc., a market research firm which has been tracking the dieting market since 1989, it is estimated that Americans are currently spending over $60 Billion a year for diet and weight loss programs, products, services and procedures.  

In spite of the fact that all these billions of dollars are being spent annually on gyms and health clubs, exercise classes, videos and equipment, medically supervised weight loss programs, surgeries and procedures, dieting books, meal replacements, prescription diet drugs, over the counter diet pills, appetite suppressants and fat burners, and low-carb, sugar-free and low-calorie foods and alternatives, the overweight and obesity rate in the U.S. continues to increase.

Many of these commercial diet and weight loss programs, services and products make big claims and promises and come with an equally high price tag. But, both their short-term and particularly their long-term effectiveness is often questionable. While some of these products and services may be based on unproven data and claims and inherently ineffective, many others are based on research and studies and are medically and/or nutritionally sound and should work. The simple fact is that people just do not adhere to the program or do not use the products the way they are intended because every diet and exercise plan requires an individual to implement permanent lifestyle changes.

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Marketdata Enterprises Inc.