A new study
says that excess weight, physical inactivity, type 2 diabetes, and low
consumption of fruits and vegetables costs North Carolina $24 billion a
year in medical costs, workers compensation, and lost productivity. In
addition to questions I have on methodology and calculations, this
“bottom line” finding calls into question the need for the study in the
first place:
One of the most effective ways to boost physical activity
levels in our youngsters and reducetheir risk for overweight, obesity,
and type II diabetes is through dailyphysical activity.
If it all traces back to physical activity, why focus on obesity?
Fortunately, there are no recommendations for weight loss as an end in
itself, but including weight as a risk factor only perpetuates the
misinformation and encourages big government to tax food and limit individual choice.
