Coloradans are Least Obese, But Still Gaining Weight

Colorado has been heralded as the trimmest state in the country, but NPR reports that residents' weight is still on the rise.

1 minute read

October 7, 2011, 8:00 AM PDT

By Cathie Pagano


Colorado has been named the thinnest state in the country but weight gain is on the rise. "...in 2010, Colorado lost its status as the only state with an obesity rate lower than 20 percent. It's rate is 21 percent."

Chris Lindley head of the state's nutrition and obesity prevention program "points out that 15 years ago, the state with the highest obesity rate in the country is where Colorado's is today. And Colorado now has one of the fastest growing rates of childhood obesity."

Siegler says that poverty and lack of access to fresh foods is part of the problem, according to public health officials.

"Those low-income families are the ones that are leaning heavier on those convenient foods that really cause weight gain and are a huge problem in the obesity epidemic," says Jana Wright a teacher for Partnerships for Health Communities.

Thanks to Cathie Pagano

Wednesday, October 5, 2011 in NPR

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