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Top 10 Fattest Countries


Guest The Pom Queen

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Guest The Pom Queen

Well I may as well continue my top 10's this time we will do it without photos.

 

At No 1 - American Samoa with 93.5% of the population over weight

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Guest guest57545

Are pacific islanders really fat? they are genetically massive isn't it just the way we define fat bmi etc. e.g. all rugby players at the top level would be 'super morbidly obese'

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Guest GeorgeD
Are pacific islanders really fat? they are genetically massive isn't it just the way we define fat bmi etc. e.g. all rugby players at the top level would be 'super morbidly obese'

 

BMI isn't a perfect measure, there are always anomalies like rugby players for example, but they will also have a low body fat content.

 

Many Pacific Islanders are indeed overweight in an unhealthy way. Their diet is very high in fat (palm oil is used extensively) and they eat a large amount of processed foods (in particular meats). This is a relatively recent phenomenon as their traditional diet is quite healthy. The rise of imported prcessed foods is a new thing in the last 20-30 years. Diabetes is now very common in most islands too. Their is a cultural reason for this, as the belief is that weight is a sign of health and is attractive (big is beautiful!) They also have large communal feast gatherings where eating is a very social thing to do...and whilst it may have been fine with traditional foodstuffs, the high fat & salt foods they eat more of now are causing issues. They are also doing less activity...less farming and fishing, more tourist work, more cars, more TV to sit in the house an watch, etc. So basically lots of fatty foods, very little nutritional information or health advice and a much more sedentary lifestyle equals obesity.

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