The Topic Of Body Weight
The topic of body weight in America is a sociopolitical phenomena with multiple, often conflicting
perspectives. Some refer to the issue of obesity as an epidemic, highlighting social and political
solutions to redress the consequences of weight gain amongst U.S. citizens. Others point to the
socially constructed nature of bodies and the meanings surrounding them. These scholars argue that
the idealized bodily form is projected to glorify hegemonic standards of health and beauty, which
operate according to capitalist and gendered norms. As a consequence, those outside the glorified
norm tend to experience shame, stigma, and discrimination. From media outlets to individuals,
from researchers to government agents, the consistent communication about weight in America
demonstrates the severity of the phenomenon. There are over 170 million Americans who are
severely obese, obese, or overweight including women, men, and children (Ogden, Carroll, Kit,
Flegal, 2012). Additionally, 22.9% of adult Americans suffer from metabolic syndrome, a medical
condition in people who appear to be of a healthy weight but have dangerously high levels of fat
inside their body (BeltrГ Ўn SГЎnchez, Harhay, Harhay, McElligott, 2013). The causes behind the
epidemic are complex but are often examined as an excess of caloric intake and a lack of sufficient
activity (Tukuitonga Keller, 2005). As mentioned previously, the obesity epidemic is a complex
phenomenon with socio economical, geographical, and
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