Latest news with #TheShapeofAmerica
Yahoo
12-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
New Yorkers say willpower is the biggest reason they can't lose weight—see what other cities think is their biggest barrier
This year many of us have promised to eat healthier, drink less, exercise more, and make 2025 our healthiest year ever (sound familiar?). A couple of months into the year, however, some of those resolutions may be starting to slip. The average American gives up on their New Year's resolutions—including weight loss goals—by January 19, meaning many of us have said sayonara to our healthy new habits already. According to research, 63% of Americans who have successfully lost weight in their lives report gaining it back within the year, and one in five (20%) report gaining it back in two months time. So what's holding us all back from achieving our goals? Is it psychological? Environmental? Inflation? Some combination of factors? Hers reports in a 2025 study how weight loss barriers differ across the U.S. Willpower is the number one reason Americans say they throw in the towel on weight loss goals, but according to the Hers study, it's less than half the story. Only 30% of Americans who have tried to lose weight at some point in their life say it's willpower that held them back, meaning that 70% name factors other than willpower that are working against them. Doctors agree: "This is not about willpower. Our bodies have a centuries-old biological drive to avoid weight loss. Maintaining reserves of body fat is an adaptation to help us survive through periods of food scarcity. But in the modern day, the tables are turned—we have to use modern medical advances to overcome these biological presets," says Craig Primack MD, FACP, FAAP, MFOMA, a physician specializing in obesity medicine and senior vice president of weight loss at Hers. Genetics, for example, is one of the biggest barriers to weight loss according to medical experts, yet Americans are half as likely to name their biological makeup as an obstacle to weight loss as they are to name their own resolve. Consider this: Only 14% of respondents say genetics is a barrier to their weight loss, yet it's estimated that 43% of the general population has a genetic predisposition to obesity. Having a genetic predisposition to obesity doesn't guarantee that a person will be overweight, but it can make it more difficult for them to lose weight. Science, however, is stepping in to break some biological barriers. Notably, weight loss medications have proven to be an effective path to weight loss for many. According to a 2024 study from Hims & Hers, The Shape of America, 61% of those who have tried GLP-1s have lost weight, and among those, 55% report having kept the weight among those who are trying to lose weight now, or have tried to lose weight in the past 30% Willpower 24% My general lifestyle 21% Lack of commitment 14% Affordability 14% Genetics 13% The people around me 13% Lack of support 12% My environment/where I live 10% None of the above—I tend to be successful in losing weight when I want to 8.5% Lack of access to health tools or medications 8% Cultural factors 2% Other 10% None of the above—I don't struggle to lose weight Whether it's willpower or biology that Americans feel is holding them back, what's clear is that weight loss is personal and different people—and populations—report facing different barriers to getting to their ideal weight. For example, New Yorkers are two times more likely than New Orleanians to name willpower as a reason why they can't lose weight (39.5% vs. 19%) and nearly three times more likely than their neighbors in Philadelphia to say that where they live is to blame (18.5% vs. 7%, respectively). Kansas City residents are seven times more likely than Omaha, NE, residents to say "lack of support" undermines their weight loss goals (23% vs. 3%). And residents of Albuquerque, NM, San Antonio, TX, and Austin, TX, reported that cultural factors were the culprit. Finally, smaller cities, like Greenville, SC, and Providence, RI, were more likely to say access to health resources was the issue. Albuquerque, NM, topped the list of cities reporting the most barriers to weight loss (a full 100% say they face one or more barriers) and Philadelphia, PA reported facing the least (80%). The challenges to losing weight varied greatly by region. Here are the cities that reported facing each weight loss barrier most. 90% of Americans struggle overall Albuquerque, NM: 100% San Francisco, CA: 99% Baltimore, MD: 96% Seattle, WA: 95% Orlando, FL: 95% 30% of Americans struggle overall Baltimore, MD: 40% New York, NY: 39.5% Sacramento, CA: 38% Pittsburgh, PA: 37.5% Phoenix, AZ: 37% 24% of Americans struggle overall Denver, CO: 39.5% Seattle, WA: 34% New Orleans, LA: 34% Austin, TX: 33% Los Angeles, CA: 32% 21% of Americans struggle overall Pittsburgh, PA: 31% Norfolk, VA: 30% New Orleans, LA: 29% Houston, TX: 27% Kansas City, KS: 27% 14% of Americans struggle overall Birmingham, AL: 26% Charlotte, NC: 23% Sacramento, CA: 22% Detroit, MI: 21% Albuquerque, NM: 21% 14% of Americans struggle overall Washington, D.C.: 24% Chicago, IL: 23% San Francisco, CA: 22% Norfolk, VA: 20% Milwaukee, WI: 20% 13% of Americans struggle overall Orlando, FL: 27% San Diego, CA: 23% St. Louis, MO: 21.5% Denver, CO: 20% Dallas, TX: 18% 13% of Americans struggle overall Albuquerque, NM: 26% Kansas City, KS: 23% Oklahoma, OK: 21% Norfolk, VA: 20% Salt Lake City, UT: 20% 12% of Americans struggle overall St. Louis, MO: 21.5% Albuquerque, NM: 21% Portland, OR: 19% New York, NY: 18.5% Minneapolis, MN: 17% 9% of Americans struggle overall Greenville, SC: 19% Providence, RI: 18% Honolulu, HI: 17% Salt Lake City, UT: 16% Omaha, NE: 15.5% 8% of Americans struggle overall San Antonio, TX: 16.5% Albuquerque, NM: 16% Austin, TX: 14% Washington, D.C.: 12% Cleveland, OH: 12% 90% of Americans struggle overall Philadelphia, PA: 80% Atlanta, GA: 81% Omaha, NE: 81% Des Moines, IA: 82% Portland, OR: 82% Get the data. No matter where you live, losing weight can be challenging. A good place to start is to set goals that are realistic and achievable to help you stay motivated. Remember that weight loss is not linear and requires a daily commitment to making healthier choices. And when lifestyle changes aren't enough, speak to a healthcare provider about whether options like weight loss medications may be a good fit for you. This study is based on a 7,100-person online survey, which included (1) 5,000 18-to-65-year-old respondents in the top 50 metropolitan areas (100 respondents per city); (2) 5,000 18-65-year-old respondents in each of the 50 states (100 respondents per state); and (3) a nationally representative sample of 500 18-to-65-year-old respondents to contextualize results. These three categories are not mutually exclusive; some respondents fall within more than one category. The study was fielded in January 2025. Findings were analyzed by 190 demographic and psychographic cuts, including city, region, gender (when we refer to "women" and "men," we include all people who self-identify as such), age, race and ethnicity, relationship status, parenting status, sexual orientation (heterosexual, bisexual, gay, lesbian, pansexual, asexual, queer, etc.), fandoms (music, sports, etc.), and fitness and diet preferences, among other areas of interest. Metropolitan populations were determined by 2022 U.S. Census data. In order to represent as many states as possible within the study, five cities that did not fall in the top 50 metropolitan locations were selected in place of cities in states already represented. Cities added to the study included New Orleans, LA (51); Providence, RI (53); Little Rock, AR (59); Honolulu, HI (68); and Omaha, NE (71). Cities replaced in the study included West Palm Beach, FL (39); Jacksonville, FL (41); Grand Rapids, MI (42); Harrisburg, PA (44); and Greensboro, NC (45). Results reflected above are among people who reported trying to lose weight now, or who have tried to lose weight in the past. Results reflect the percentage of people in each city who name each weight loss barrier as one they face. All data in this study are from this source, unless otherwise noted. Independent research firm, Culture Co-op, conducted and analyzed research and findings. This story was produced by Hers and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
Yahoo
29-01-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
New study reveals what Americans perceive as ideal weight
The average American woman weighs about 170 pounds and stands about 5 feet, 4 inches tall. But it's important to remember that these averages are mathematical calculations. They don't represent what's typical or healthy for everybody There are so many factors that make all bodies unique—size, shape, proportions—that comparing one body to others is rarely helpful. In fact, it often leads to negative self-talk and other harmful behaviors (thanks, Instagram). That said, it may help to know you're not the only one thinking about your weight. According to a 2024 study from Hims & Hers, The Shape of America, 83% of Americans are not at the weight they'd like to be. The average amount of weight folks are looking to lose? 42 pounds. Hers shares more about the average weight for women in the United States, what women believe the ideal weight is, and the factors that influence the ability to hit a goal weight. To learn more about how Americans think about weight and weight loss, Hims & Hers conducted a nationally-representative study of 5,000 adults, revealing the often contradictory beliefs held about weight, including what people believe is normal for themselves and others. The survey found that women believe the ideal weight for women is 139 pounds. But when asked about their personal ideal weight, the answer was different. When speaking about themselves, the average goal weight for women in this study was 144 pounds. What's up with these discrepancies? According to Dr. Jessica Shepherd, chief medical officer at Hers, there are a few factors at play. "There can be discrepancies between actual and ideal weights due to gender, ethnicity, genetics, environment, and lifestyle, and these differences should not be a source of stress as the ideal body weight does not apply to everyone the same." "Body image," she says, "is a multifaceted construct that includes positive and negative attitudes, thoughts, and behaviors." American women tend to weigh more than women in other parts of the world. There are many reasons for this, such as dietary choices, cultural norms, and socioeconomic factors that influence food accessibility. The average body weight of women in America has been steadily increasing over the past few decades. According to national surveys, about 42% of U.S. women have obesity and an additional 27% are overweight. Though the U.S. may be leading the charge, one in eight adults around the world now live with obesity. And many more (43%) are overweight. Percent of women who are overweight in 2022 (by region) Western Pacific (China, Japan, Australia, and more) — 33.5% South-East Asia (India, Indonesia, Thailand, and more) — 35.1% Africa — 36.2% Europe — 56.3% Eastern Mediterranean (Middle East, Northeast Africa) — 62.5% The Americas — 68.7% Body mass index, or BMI, is a measurement used to assess a person's body weight in relation to how tall they are. It's calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by their height in meters, squared. (kg/m2). While not perfect, this simple calculation is used as a standard way to measure where people fall in comparison to "normal," which in this context more or less means "healthy." It's intended to provide insight into the risk of developing certain weight-related chronic conditions. The medical community uses BMI values to diagnose conditions like obesity. The standard weight categories include: Underweight: BMI of 18.5 or under Normal weight: BMI under 25 Overweight: BMI under 30 Obesity: BMI of 30 or greater BMI has limitations and may not accurately reflect your overall health or body composition. The measurement doesn't take into account factors like body fat percentage, lean muscle mass, or physical fitness. Body composition can also differ between men, women, and people of different races and ethnicities. Sometimes it feels like everything we do today has an impact on how our pants will fit next week. But things are rarely so simple. When it comes to weight, there are a lot of factors at play. : Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels throughout the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause can affect metabolism and weight regulation. Genetics: Genes can influence body composition, where people tend to hang onto fat, and even how quickly they burn calories. Nutrition: Eating habits, the nutritional quality of our diets, and portion sizes impact weight management. Physical activity: Cardio and strength training affect calorie expenditure, muscle mass, and overall body composition. Stress: Chronic stress can lead to emotional eating, hormonal imbalances, and changes in appetite. Sleep: Poor sleep quality can disrupt hormone levels, metabolism, and appetite regulation. Medical conditions: Certain conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), thyroid disorders, and insulin resistance can affect weight regulation in women. Medications: Medications like antidepressants, birth control pills, and corticosteroids may cause weight fluctuations. Social and cultural factors: Eating habits are partly shaped by societal norms, cultural attitudes towards food, and peer/familial influence. Mental health: Emotional well-being, self-esteem, and coping mechanisms all play a role in weight maintenance. Healthy weight management is a lifelong process. Lifestyle habits are essential to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of weight-related health problems like obesity and heart disease. So, toss the weight chart in the trash and consider these tips instead. Focus on nutrients Nutrition is one of the most important components of your overall health and wellness. Not only does a nutrient-rich diet provide the vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and macronutrients (protein, fats, and carbs) needed, but it also supports healthy weight management. A few things to keep in mind: Eat mostly whole foods. These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, and other lean proteins. They provide an array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and they're rich in fiber, which helps to feel full. Avoid ultra-processed foods. Examples include soda, candy, and packaged snack foods. These tend to be high in saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar. Focus on nutrients versus calories. Rather than being laser-focused on counting calories, put nutrients first. Get better sleep Not getting enough sleep will wreck anyone, especially if it's an ongoing problem. Did you know that sleep deprivation does more than just make you cranky? Lack of sleep makes people more prone to sugar cravings and mindless eating. Experts say adults should get seven to nine hours of quality sleep per night. If you don't normally sleep very well, try these tips to catch more Zzz's: Follow a consistent sleep-wake schedule. Adopt a calming nighttime routine you can look forward to each evening. Dress in breathable PJs and use comfy bedding. Avoid screens close to bedtime, as the blue light can interfere with melatonin production and make it harder to fall asleep. Use black-out curtains or a white noise machine. Talk to your healthcare provider if you think you have sleep apnea. Move your body Physical activity is important for supporting overall health and achieving weight goals. Regular exercise helps you burn extra calories, lose weight loss, and put on muscle. For general health, experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise weekly, plus strength training twice per week. For weight loss goals, this increases to 200-300 minutes per week. In addition to getting your steps in, here are a few things to try: Swimming Biking Jogging Briskly walking Doing martial arts Playing basketball Joining a group fitness class High-intensity interval training Using resistance bands, dumbbells, weight machines, or bodyweight exercise Consider weight loss medications When daily lifestyle habits alone aren't enough to promote weight loss, many people find success with weight loss medications. Intended to be used alongside a healthy diet and exercise, some of the most popular and effective weight loss medications include: GLP-1 receptor agonists: These work by mimicking the effects of the naturally occurring hormone GLP-1, which regulates appetite and food intake. By activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain, GLP-1s help promote fullness, slow digestion, and may also decrease cravings. Examples include liraglutide (Saxenda®) and semaglutide (Wegovy® or Ozempic®). Metformin: Metformin is primarily used to improve blood sugar regulation in type 2 diabetes, but it may also support weight loss by decreasing appetite and reducing the absorption of glucose from food in the intestines. Contrave®: This is a combination of bupropion (an antidepressant and aid to quit smoking) and naltrexone (used for alcohol and opioid dependence). Bupropion helps reduce appetite and cravings, while naltrexone counteracts the effects of certain brain chemicals involved in food reward. Topiramate: This is often used as an antiepileptic medication but can support weight loss by suppressing appetite and promoting feelings of fullness. It may also influence your brain's reward pathways, potentially reducing cravings for high-calorie foods. Nurture social connections People were never meant to do life alone, and this includes the journey to achieving a healthy weight. Social connections provide support, accountability, and encouragement. Research shows that people who have these types of networks experience better weight loss outcomes. Joining a group fitness community or jogging with friends builds a sense of community and encouragement, making it easier to stay committed to healthy habits. Having a strong social network can help provide outlets for healthier stress management. It's also a place to share experiences, successes, and challenges with those on similar journeys. Drink more water Stay hydrated, primarily with plain water. Water is essential for health but also helps to keep fuller for longer. Try to sip on water throughout the day to keep cravings at bay. If your goal is weight loss, drink water right before or during meals to help promote fullness and prevent overeating. If you get tired of plain water, try these: Plain seltzer water Herbal tea Water naturally flavored with cucumber, lemon slices, or raspberries and mint leaves. There's no "ideal" weight calculation that encompasses every woman's body type or health requirements. At the end of the day, health is more than a number on the scale. While unrealistic beauty standards and societal pressures are pervasive, that doesn't mean we have to accept them as the norm when examining the optimal weight range for women. If you're on a mission to find the healthiest weight for you: Prioritize healthy everyday habits. This means improving sleep, staying hydrated, nourishing your social connections, boosting your nutrition, and moving your body regularly. Seek outside support. Friends and family can be excellent support systems, but sometimes outside health experts can also be beneficial. Perhaps it makes sense for you to talk to a dietitian or connect with one of our licensed healthcare providers. Focus on you. Weight management is personal. What's most important is understanding your unique body. This story was produced by Hers and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
