Upside to Economic Crisis: People Lose Weight
According to a team of researchers who conducted a survey in Cuba, a bad economic condition has an upside- obesity rates can plummet. From 1980 to 2005, data were gathered to see if the 1990 Cuban economic crisis had an impact on public health.
It was found out that during this time, obesity rates went down to 7 percent from 14 percent in a span of 4 years (1991-199%). It was also noted that at that period, people engaged in more physical activities such as walking or biking to and from work. Little did they know that their bad economy will force them to be make healthy food decisions and engage in physical activities – to save some money.
In addition to low obesity rates, the research also noted that the incidence of cardiovascular disorders also decreased dramatically. There was also a drop in the number of people with diabetes. Only 10 out of 100,000 Cubans suffered from the disorder in 2003, while in 1998 the ratio was 19:100,000.
Although the survey was not published to recommend a national economic crisis, it shows the environment plays a major role in the obesity epidemic. In the event of an economic crisis, the general population tends to reduce intake of calories and at the same time, increase their physical activities.
Many people forget that the number one rule in weight loss is moderation. Even if you can afford to buy anything, you should still try to discipline yourself into making healthy food choices. In the United States, the easy access to fat-laden and high calorie food is a big problem. But then again, it is your decision ultimately if you want to buy these foods and indulge yourself.
Health officials have already spent millions of dollars in campaigns that promote a healthier lifestyle. Junk foods are being banned across the state and even restaurants are required to furnish their customers the caloric content of all the dishes they serve.
If you are serious about losing weight, you should not wait for an economic crisis to happen first before you undertake a weight loss program. Just make sure you have consulted your doctor and you have undergone a thorough check up. Experts still encourage people to exercise at least an hour each day. If this is not possible, you can always try engaging in any form of physical activity like walking instead of commuting to work or taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
In addition, there are also weight loss supplements that you can take together with exercise and dieting. You should just be careful about supplements with suspicious content or ingredients.
