In one of the most extensive studies done in the United States to learn about health, diseases and causes of death within its population titled “State of Health in the United States 1990-2010″, data from millions of Americans was collected and compared with that of 33 other countries. (Published in jamanetwork.com – Journal of the American Medical Association)
The study indicates that out of 34 countries, the United States ranks 27 in life expectancy. While the core information from the study relates to the condition of the U.S. population, it may well serve as a thermometer for countries that are influenced by the United States in terms of food and consumer trends.
Some particularly harmful health factors or enemies the study points out are:
- Diet. What Americans eat on a regular basis contributes to a higher risk for certain diseases, disability and even death. In a globalized world, the processed foods that wreck so much havoc in the American diet are showing their terrible side effects in an increasing number of countries. On this issue, the WHO points out that an unhealthy diet is one of the major risk factors for chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and other obesity-related conditions.
- Smoking, BMI and blood pressure. Smoking is a risk factor for many diseases, with cancer and pulmonary conditions leading the pack, while high body mass index and blood pressure numbers mean that the body is making a greater effort when doing even everyday activities.
- Greater life expectancy but poorer health. The study shows that the average American can expect to live longer, but the number of healthy years lived has decreased slightly.
- Diseases and accidents. Among the causes of early death and disability is ischemic heart disease, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and road accidents.
While many of these threats to our health depend on circumstantial, hereditary or environmental factors, experts found that the potential that changes in the diet can have on the health of the United States (and the world) is impressive.
The study also analyzed 14 key components of the American diet and their relationship with diseases, disability and death. They found that the greatest risks are for people whose diets are:
- Low in fruit
- Low in nuts and seeds
- High in sodium
- High in processed or deli meats
- Low in vegetables
- High in trans fat
Diets low in omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains and fiber and high in sugary beverages also represent a significant health risk.
LIMARP’s Integrative Bariatric Program includes specific patient education on nutrition and offers strategies to help you make the best food choices in today’s world.
For more information call LIMARP International Center of Excellence for Obesity Toll Free at (866)585 3298 from US and Canada, for the rest of the world call +52 (664) 686 2542 or fill out a contact form here to receive a free evaluation.
