In reference to the Alabama law that would require obese persons to pay an extra 25$, we should not applaud such discriminatory acts. As a registered dietitian (nutritionist), we are taught that obesity should not be viewed as just an individual problem, but a social problem. To fine people for living in an environment that fosters a sedentary and unhealthy lifestyle is not productive. Factors such as: excessive advertising of junk food to children on TV and in schools, the fact that produce is more expensive than junk food, the mixed messages that the media portrays about diet and health, the lack/unsafe environments for physical activity and many more should all be considered when dealing with weight issues. 

Furthermore, take a look at the woman who lost weight and is now gaining it back. You can’t possibly believe that this is a lack of control on her behalf. She has obviously demonstrated that she does have the discipline to lose weight. However, like most people who have lost weight, studies find that most gain the weight back. Pressure from food advertising, the reliance on high calorie convenience foods, and the cost gap between healthy and unhealthy foods are all social problems.

The American Dietetic Association, the worlds largest organization of nutrition professionals has lobbied and fought for nutrition reform in congress, but tend to be out numbered and out funded by powerful food companies. Society will have to become proactive in order to have any change in the way we live or what foods we have exposure to. This will help with the obesity problem, not blaming individuals for being overweight.

I agree with some things you are saying,like the cost of healthy foods apposed to junk food.Some people cannot lose weight due to injury,meds,depressed or I believe its herititary in some cases.But they are alot of people who are not motivated and like to eat.As far as making them pay more for insurance,I have to pay more money every year cause of my age and thats not fair.

On the show today, I absolutely disagree with the caloric intake chart that was given! It stated that 2500 calories was needed for the pregnant woman. I have always been told that during the 1st trimester you only need 100 extra calories and 300 during the next two (per day). These are the guidelines I followed during my pregnancies and gain between 24-28 lbs for each child. I normally eat 1600 calories. If I would have eaten 2500 calories during my pregnancies I would have gained way more than the guideline of 25-35 lbs! Maybe this is why so many pregnancy women gain too much weight!

mcivis, you are right, an extra 300 calories per day is recommended for the second and third trimester. This is equivalent to an extra apple with 1 tablespoon of peanut butter per day. The doctor was not corrected in assuming that we all need 2500 kcal per day. Calorie intake depends on many factors, including body mass not associated with fat mass, the thermic effect of food, and physical activity.