TheLoop21.com

By: autumna (Add to your loop)
Sun, 11/01/2009 - 03:56

The rate of obesity in America is on the rise.

The residents of Miami just won a dubious distinction that will hit them right at their waistlines.

Among "fat cities," Miami ranks No. 1, followed by Oklahoma City, San Antonio, Las Vegas, New York, and Houston, according to MensFitness.com.

MF collected and analyzed reams of data on the 50 most populated areas in the nation in an effort to determine just which cities take fitness the most seriously.

Medical experts say that America's rising obesity stems from a society that has grown increasingly automated, where fast food is cheap and easy.

But if you live in a "fat city," that doesn't mean your own destiny is high-density. In modern society, obesity is partially related to not having a lot of money, one doctor said.

"Part of it is that fatty food is cheap," said Paul Thompson, a cardiologist at Hartford Hospital, in Hartford, Conn. A couple of slices of pizza is cheaper and easier than what you'll find at the health food store.

Plus, for many of us, a natural exercise such as walking to work just isn't feasible.

Some experts have pointed out that while food has grown increasingly cheap, getting exercise can be costly.

"The whole concept of getting folks lean is to reverse the process," Thompson suggested. "Make exercise cheap and food more expensive."

Experts offer some simple weight loss tips to get the fattest city dwellers started on a healthier lifestyle:

• Replace one soft drink a day with 6 to 8 glasses of water

• Walk at least one block a day

• Get 30 minutes of exercise a day, walk up steps instead of taking the elevator

• Eat more vegetables and fruits

• Sleep 8 hours a night

Is the controversy over Gabby Sidibe's weight silly?

Yes, talent outweights everything

Maybe, it's a health concern

No, she has to lose weight

What controversy?

I don't care