Fighting Obesity in America

According to the Center for Disease and Control, 35.9 percent of American adults age 20 and over are obese.

U.S. Air Force photo: Airman 1st Class Ericka Engblom

U.S. Air Commandos receive a chance to learn about better eating habits at the "20 Ways to Eat More Fruits and Vegetables" seminar March 28 at Cannon Air Force Base. The class was held to educate people on the dangers of eating primarily processed food and ways to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into their busy lives.

Lenka Ferry, 27th Special Operations Aerospace Medicine Squadron dietician, has actively looked for ways to combat this epidemic.

During March, Ferry hosted weekly seminars on ways to live a healthier lifestyle. The final seminar, "20 Ways to Eat More Fruits and Vegetables," was held at the Health and Wellness Center March 28 at Cannon Air Force Base.

"People don't eat enough fruits and vegetables, but it's really easy if you just take time to plan meals beforehand," said Ferry.

People that preplan balanced meals are less likely to be obese than people who don't, according to a study by the CDC. These people are also able to continue their active lifestyles without resorting to eating a drive-through diet.

"There are more options than having everything processed and ready-to-go," said Ferry. "Planning your meals is a little more time consuming, but the extra effort is worth it in the long run."