Obesity

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HOST (Kelsey Phelps):

Hello, and welcome to Healthy Voices of Saginaw, where we share recent stories, challenges, and successes shaping community health right here in Saginaw, Michigan. I’m your host, Kelsey Phelps, the founder of Nourish Saginaw, and today, we’re taking a closer look at a major public health issue that affects not just individuals, but entire families and neighborhoods: obesity.

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Across Saginaw County, obesity remains one of the leading health concerns. Obesity is defined by the Cleveland Clinic as “…having too much body fat. A BMI of 30 or higher is the usual benchmark for obesity in adults.” BWell Saginaw chose obesity as one of their main health concerns for change, creating prevention projects to improve the health of the community.

According to the Saginaw County Health Rankings, 43 percent of residents are obese, which is considerably higher than Michigan at 35 percent, and even higher than the United States average of 34 percent. But behind those numbers are real people: neighbors, coworkers, and families, each facing barriers to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

So, what’s driving these high rates of obesity?

It’s rarely just about personal choices. It’s also about access, environments, and education: access to affordable healthy foods, environments that are safe for physical activity and wellness, and education for health topics so people know the right choices to make for their health. In many parts of Saginaw, residents live in areas known as food deserts, where nutritious options are limited, and fast food is often the easiest or only choice.

So, why does obesity matter?

Obesity can increase the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and many more conditions. But it also affects mental health, confidence, and overall quality of life.  Weight loss of 5 to 10 percent can decrease the risks of these chronic conditions.  Even a 5 or 10 pound weight loss can improve someone’s quality of life and overall happiness.

That’s why local efforts like Nourish Saginaw, the Saginaw Community Food Club, the Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds program, and other community-based programs are so important. Community efforts are working to improve access to fresh foods, promote healthy eating habits, and create environments that support active living for everyone.

And while policy change and community programs make a huge difference, small, personal steps matter too.

That could mean taking a daily walk, drinking more water, or cooking one more meal at home each week. When individuals and communities come together to make healthier choices, we can see the ripple effects of change not just now, but in future generations to come.

Now, here’s where you come in.
You, listeners, anybody who’s tuning in. If you’re listening and wondering how to help, start by getting involved.  Here are four tips for getting involved to improve your health and impact those around you.

1. Support local programs like the Saginaw Community Food Club, the Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds program, and others by volunteering or spreading the word.
2. Join a local weight loss support group to find others like you who are working to improve their health. You can find more information about weight loss support groups on the BWell Saginaw website.
3. Join a community fitness group or even invite a neighbor for a walk.
4. And the most important tip, start the conversation about health and wellness in your own circles.  Talk to family and friends to join you in making one healthy choice each day.

Each action, no matter how small, adds up to a healthier Saginaw. Together, we can create a community where healthy choices are not just possible, they’re accessible and sustainable for everyone.

Obesity is a complex issue, but here in Saginaw, we’re not shying away from it. Together, through awareness, access, and action, we can build a healthier, stronger community.

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Closing:

Thanks for joining me on Healthy Voices of Saginaw. To learn more or get involved, visit NourishSaginaw.org and follow our mission to make health and wellness accessible to everyone.  Make sure to share this podcast with family and friends to help more people understand the facts about their health and improve the Saginaw community.

Until next time, stay healthy, stay well, and stay nourished, Saginaw.

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