What do you think is the government's role in the obesity epidemic?

There is a GREAT article in the Wall Street Journal about Government policy and how if affects obesity. 

In an effort to tackle the obesity epidemic Major Bloomberg of NYC recently approved a ban of sugary drinks in quantities greater than 16oz.  Also in NYC, fast food restaurants display calorie counts on the menu in an effort to educate the consumer.  Some fast food chains have taken this policy on a national, for example, even the Panera here in Knoxville, TN posts the calorie count next to each food item on the menu.  As a conscious healthy eater regardless, I know it has affected the choices I make and in some cases has even surprised me!

Here's the article: What Role Should Government Play in Combating Obesity?


What about the 16oz policy?  A few weeks ago I went to the movies, I walk up to the concessions to order a "small" diet coke and a "small" popcorn to share.  I had to hold the "small" diet coke with both hands and halfway through the movie we had barely made a dent in the popcorn.

The article also discusses influential policies on a national level.  The quality of food available on the food stamps program doesn't exactly promote healthy options...

What do you think about these policies?  Should the government enforce more policies that help tackle the obesity epidemic?  Or should the focus be toward educating the consumer but letting them make the choice?  Would they pick the healthiest option?

I want to hear what you have to say on the issue!  Leave a comment on my blog! What do you think would work?

More on this issue?  Check out this book: The Fattening of America - How the Economy Makes Us Fat, If It Matters, and What to Do About It by Eric A. Finkelstein & Laurie Zukerman

I want to hear what you have to say!