Obesity: More Than Just Junk Food
In the 1990s, Australia was free from the obesity and diabetes crises that now plague the nation. This stark contrast raises the question: What has changed? It's not just the proliferation of highly processed and junk food (as evidenced by the recent UK ban on junk food advertising to kids, with Australia taking note), but also the complex interplay of factors that contribute to this growing health concern.
One aspect often overlooked is the role of diet in relation to medication. Antidepressants and psychotropics, commonly prescribed in Australia, can have obesity as a side effect. This is a stress reaction, and it's worth considering why stress levels might be higher in a country often referred to as the 'Lucky Country'.
However, the root causes of obesity are multifaceted. The current cost of living crisis, spanning over two decades, is linked to wage stagnation, wage theft, underpaid contract employment, inadequate welfare support, and artificially high household debt. In this context, it's understandable why people might turn to affordable, yet unhealthy, food options. Instead of solely targeting junk food, perhaps we should be asking more challenging questions about the systemic issues that contribute to obesity.
As Stephen Lake from Moss Vale, NSW, points out, the issue is complex and requires a comprehensive approach. By addressing the underlying economic and social factors, we might be able to tackle obesity more effectively and sustainably.
