You shouldn't be surprised-and you aren't alone. Obesity among young women in the United States is becoming an issue of serious concern. Healthy People 2010, a health initiative by the Surgeon General to prevent disease and promote the health of the American people, estimates that nearly 25 percent of young people are overweight. This is twice the percentage of 30 years ago.
Obesity can foster poor self-esteem and pave the way for eating disorders.
In addition, young women who are losing the battle with the scale are potentially setting themselves up for future health problems down the line, such as heart disease, stroke, Type II diabetes, and certain types of cancer. You are never too young, too overweight, or too busy to make vital changes in your lifestyle that will help you lose or maintain weight. In addition, positive lifestyle changes can help you live a longer, healthier, more productive life. Lose Weight the Safe Way Craig M. Wax, D. O., an osteopathic family physician practicing in New Jersey, says osteopathic medicine can play an essential role in the fight to lose weight. One of the things I ask my patients to do is submit a detailed three-day dietary history.