Since the 80s, daily exercise has gained mainstream popularity, seen by the rise of the modern gym and home fitness programs. Americans spend millions of dollars each year on gym memberships and other programs. Yet obesity has also been on the rise for decades, as we are all well aware of, and more than two-thirds of adults are considered to be overweight or obese. How could it be that the more we exercise the more we continue to gain? A major part of the equation has been missing: Nutrition. Successful weight loss does not come from exercise alone. It mostly follows as a result of a healthy diet, which the American diet is quite far from recently. Some of the blame can be attributed to the rise of the fast food industry, making food cheaper and cheaper by offering low-quality, nutrient-poor products. The temptation of a cheap, convenient meal often outweighs the desire to go grocery shopping and cook at home, especially if you are feeding a family. Similarly, the restaurant industry in general has been a large factor in America’s bloat as another alternative to home cooking. Many restaurants are known for having huge portions compared to serving sizes you would have at home, as well as pack in way more calories and other ingredients you may not have added otherwise. Whatever the scapegoat may be, I think it comes down to sheer confusion about nutrition. Over the years a litany of claims have emerged, which I’m sure you’re all too familiar with: – Fat is the enemy! …No wait just trans fats? Saturated fats? – Carbs are the culprit! – Are you eating too much sodium? – You should eat ALL the kale! – Don’t eat after 8pm! Source
