I am excited about my book being launched in early 2013 that addresses the total lifestyle approach to obesity. I keep seeing the need for it now! Many lifestyle factors contribute to the obesity epidemic and while I appreciate the “baby steps” that are happening, I really wonder if government policies can really make a significant impact.
Los Angeles County announced a new public health campaign this week based on calorie count awareness. It is called Choose Less. Weigh Less.” . This was initiated after public health officials reported new LA countywide data showing that the adult obesity rate rose from 13.6 percent to 23.6 percent between 1997 and 2011. The increase was more dramatic among younger adults, with those aged 18 to 39 seeing a 104 percent increase in their obesity rate between 1997 and 2011. The rate of increase was less than half of that for those 40 or older.
The county also stated that it might consider a ban on the sale of large sodas similar to one recently approved in New York City, which intends to prohibit sales of sugary beverages in containers larger than 16 oz.
What do you think about Government joining the “fight against obesity” and creating advertising campaigns and laws around sales of sugary beverages?
