Currently, 42% of Americans will be obese by 2030. And, 11% could be severely obese: 100 lbs. or more overweight. In 2010, 36% were obese. Indeed, this is worrisome, but some common ideas about obesity are not true:

MYTH: Only loosing a lot of weight improves health. Loosing as little as 5 lbs. can reduce cholesterol amounts; dropping 10 lbs. can lower blood pressure. A 5-7% loss via dieting can delay and possibly prevent diabetes.

MYTH: Overweight children will “grow into” their weight. Not all children with extra weight are obese—some have larger body frames, and some have different weights at their different developmental stages. Regardless, a healthy diet focused on low-glycemic foods (fruits, whole grains, poultry) will keep weight low or pounds can be lost.

MYTH: If obese, you soon develop Type II diabetes. No. People maintaining a norm weight can become diabetic—particularly if “apple-shaped.” Also, the more fatty tissue a person has, the more resistant their cells become to insulin.
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The blog in a compilation of ideas and quotes for “Health Smart: Advice from The Doctors.” USA Weekend. July 6-8, 2012.