When it comes to occupying the top spot in less-than-flattering ranking studies (think worst roads, least healthy state , etc.), being No. 1 is a regular and unfortunate Louisiana tradition. But according to a new Center for Disease Control report, three of our southern neighbors beat us out for the distinction of having the highest obesity rates. Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee occupy the 1-2-3 slots in the new report — with more than 30 percent of their residents classified as obese — while Louisiana clocks in at No. 4 with a 29.8 percent obesity ranking.
The results are small consolation, as eating habits high in fat content and fried foods continue to rank Louisiana in dangerous territory. “The epidemic of adult obesity continues to rise in the United States indicating that we need to step up our efforts at the national, state and local levels,” says Dr. William Dietz, director of CDC’s Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity. “We need to encourage people to eat more fruits and vegetables, engage in more physical activity and reduce the consumption of high calorie foods and sugar sweetened beverages in order to maintain a healthy weight.”