Consumption of processed and convenience foods and our dependence on the car have led to an increase in obesity and reduction in the fitness level of the adult population

In some countries, especially industrialized ones, the number of obese people can amount to one

third

of the population.

This

is significant as

obesity

and poor

fitness

lead to a decrease in

life

expectancy

, and it is

therefore

important for individuals and governments to work together to tackle

this

issue and improve their citizens'

diet

and

fitness

.

Obesity

and poor

fitness

decrease

life

expectancy

. Overweight people are more likely to have serious illnesses

such

as diabetes and heart disease, which can result in premature death. It is well known that regular exercise can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, which means that those with poor

fitness

levels are at an increased risk of suffering from those problems. Changes by individuals to their

diet

and their physical activity can increase

life

expectancy

. There is a reliance today on the consumption of processed foods, which have a high fat and sugar content. By preparing their own foods, and consuming more fruit and vegetables, people could ensure that their diets are healthier and more balanced, which could lead to a reduction in

obesity

levels. In order to improve

fitness

levels, people could choose to walk or cycle to work or to the shops rather than taking the car. They could

also

choose to walk up stairs

instead

of taking the lift. These simple changes could lead to a significant improvement in

fitness

levels. Governments could

also

implement initiatives to improve their citizens' eating and exercise habits.

This

could be done through education,

for example

by adding classes to the curriculum about healthy

diet

and lifestyles. Governments could

also

do more to encourage their citizens to walk or cycle

instead

of taking the car,

for instance

by building more cycle lanes or increasing vehicle taxes. While some might argue that increased taxes are a negative way to solve the

problem

, it is no different from the high taxes imposed on cigarettes to reduce cigarette consumption. In short,

obesity

and poor

fitness

are a significant

problem

in modern

life

, leading to lower

life

expectancy

. Individuals and governments can work together to tackle

this

problem

and so improve

diet

and

fitness

. Of the solutions suggested, those made by individuals themselves are likely to have more impact, though it is clear that a concerted effort with the government is essential for success. With

obesity

levels in industrialized and industrializing countries continuing to rise, it is essential that we take action now to deal with

this

problem

.