The local dietitian has suggestions for increasing obesity rates

THE CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) – Cindy Solis, a registered dietitian with the Gundersen Health System, spoke with News 8 about the rising rates of obesity in the Midwest.

According to a study by the US Centers for Disease Prevention and Control released earlier this month, 7 states now have obesity rates above 35%, including Iowa and Oklahoma that were not on this list two years ago. In 2012, there were no states with an obesity rate higher than 35%.

Solis said that obesity rates are also on the rise nationwide, and that no state has shown a significant decrease in obesity rates over the past few years. last years.

Solis said that a structured and balanced diet can help individuals avoid obesity, but also claims that it's not just an individual problem. She said research has shown that prevention programs can improve the health of individuals and communities.

"Something that could really help is if Medicare covers obesity, but at the moment we do not see that insurance covers visits to a dietitian for obesity, except in some cases. "

Solis said that obesity can lead to other diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke.