Chapter 9: Weight Management and Body Image

By: Luke Frankel

Weight management and body image are commonplace topics that we see in everyday society. Whether it is through media talking about the obesity epidemic in America or the body image norms we see portrayed on TV.

Firstly, we need to start at a young age to understand how obesity starts and stays in humans. “Nearly 55 percent of obese children are still obese in adolescence, and 80 percent of obese adolescents will be obese adults—with 70 percent of those continuing to be obese after age 30” (Donatelle 204). This statistic is staggering, showing that obesity is truly a lifelong issue, and can lead to the same condition being taught and shown to their children as well which may in turn lead to the same cycle. Our obesogenic environment tends to push this condition on us, and education is by far the most important factor in preventing obesity based death.

Secondly, it is important to show that there are both genetic and lifestyle choices that impact obesity risk. “According to data from the 2016 National Health Interview Survey, slightly more than 52.8 percent of adults age 18 and over in the United States met the guidelines for aerobic activity through involvement in leisure-time activity. Just over 22 percent met the minimum guidelines for both aerobic exercise and muscle strengthening” (Donatelle 208). This is important because while genetics cannot be changed, our physical activity levels can be, as well as our diets.

Lastly, I would like to talk about my own physical activity and personal experience with obesity. I was an obese child growing up, my brothers and I ate way too much fast food and sugar filled foods. We barely exercised and we knew nothing of proper nutrition or required exercise. I had to teach myself the basics of calorie counting and macronutrient partitioning, among other things like physical activity level. I was an overweight 12 year old weighing about 210 lbs at 5’6, and my brothers were far worse off than I was. I knew we had to do something so we worked at it and tried to educate ourselves. I am glad to be where I am today because of it.