Obesity: More Than Just Junk Food
In the 1990s, Australia had no obesity or diabetes problem. But what caused this sudden shift? It's not just about the junk food, as some might assume. While processed and junk food consumption has undoubtedly increased (as evidenced by the recent ban on junk food advertising to kids in Britain), we need to consider other factors that contribute to obesity.
One significant factor is the widespread use of antidepressants and psychotropics in Australia. These medications can have side effects, including weight gain, which may contribute to the rising obesity rates. But why are people prescribed these medications in the first place? Stress is a common reaction to the challenges of modern life, and it's no secret that Australia faces numerous social and economic issues.
The cost of living crisis, spanning over 20 years, has led to wage stagnation, wage theft, underpaid contract employment, inadequate welfare support, and artificially high household debt. These factors create a stressful environment, and people often turn to the foods they can afford, which may not be the healthiest options.
Instead of solely focusing on junk food, we should be asking harder questions about the underlying causes of obesity. Why are antidepressants and psychotropics prescribed so frequently? How can we address the root causes of stress and financial strain? By exploring these questions, we can develop more comprehensive strategies to combat obesity and improve public health.
