Two trends are are on the rise, climbing debts and a higher rate of obesity. One theory is that the two trends are more than a coincidence. As the economy worsens people worry more about money, experience a high level of stress and make cutbacks in their spending. At the same time their weight is on the rise. They can't afford the foods they were once accustomed to, they rely more on junk food because it is cheaper and their health is put on the back burner while they focus on their immediate financial needs.
German Study Confirms Link between Obesity and Debt
A recent German study that was published in The BMC Public Health Journal confirmed the link between debt and obesity. The study was done on 9,000 people. They found that 11% of these people were in debt but not overweight, while 25% of those who were in debt were also obese.
Reasons Obesity Worsen in a Poor Economy
- Depression. It's hard not to feel depressed if you are experiencing cutbacks at work, have been laid off or suddenly find yourself swimming in debt. Getting help isn't always the first action people take, however. It's more common to find yourself grabbing a container of ice cream and burying your feelings in exchange for a brief, but immediate feel good moment. Depression also makes you feel less energetic, and therefore, less likely to exercise. Since depression and weight gain are also linked, it's no surprise that depression about your debt leads to weight gain.
- Tendency to eat comfort foods. Financial stress often leads people to eat comfort foods. Whether you reach for a piece of fried chicken, homemade lasagna, chocolate chips cookies or creamy cheesecake, you are using food to sooth your emotions. Most comfort foods are loaded with sugar, fat and excess calories. The key is to find other ways to manage your debt-related stress.
- Unable to afford the high cost of health foods. Poor finances often lead to poor eating habits. People who are forced to make cuts in their budget usually take a closer look at the amount of money they spend on food. The grocery bill is often the first thing to be reduced. Fresh fruits and vegetables, high fiber foods and lean cuts of poultry and beef are typically expensive. Pasta, frozen meals and junk food are usually less expensive options. The problem is these foods also lead to weight gain. It's best to stock up on healthy foods when they go on sale, make larger batches of food and make use of leftovers to make your dollar stretch without stretching your waistline.
The bottom line is that you can make healthy choices even if you are stressed about the amount of debt you have. All you need is the right attitude, a commitment to daily exercise and new ways to reduce stress without turning to food.
Tracy Rose - Tracy Rose is a powerflifter who holds the state record in deadlifting and has had success in her own weight loss journey.
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