Was the obesity epidemic caused by cars?

Photo credit

Junk food, video games and a lack of exercise all have received their fair share of blame for the spiraling epidemic of obesity in the U.S. But according to a University of Illinois researcher, public health enemy No. 1 for our supersized nation may very well be the one staple of modern life most Americans can’t seem to live without one (or more) of: the automobile.

And:

After analyzing data from national statistics measured between 1985 and 2007, Jacobson discovered vehicle use correlated “in the 99-percent range” with national annual obesity rates.

“If we drive more, we become heavier as a nation, and the cumulative lack of activity may eventually lead to, at the aggregate level, obesity,” he said.

Source: Eurekalert

If you want to learn more about fast food, this is a great read.

You should follow me on Facebook here. I’ve started posting extra content on that page. Don’t miss out; go here and hit the “Like” button.

You can also subscribe via RSS, Twitter, or email. Check out the site’s most popular posts of all time.

Does dieting make food look bigger?

As we get fatter are we less able to notice it?

What’s more effective than exercise in losing weight and is much easier?

Can people distinguish pâté from dog food?

Can you prevent climate change by going on a diet?

Are Obese Women More Impulsive?

Having trouble concentrating? You might not be eating enough fatty foods.

How to trick yourself into eating less food and spending less money