Jace Lamonica
Obesity is a growing crisis across the United States. Drawing on the most recent data from the Trust For America’s Health, we’ve rounded up the ten states where obesity rates are not just high—they’re seriously alarming. If you live in one of these states, the numbers may surprise you and might just be a wake-up call.
West Virginia – 41.0%
Countryside folks in West Virginia probably know how hard it is to find good medical care nearby. When health education is scarce, and fresh food options are limited, it’s no wonder so many residents struggle with weight-related health issues.
Louisiana – 40.1%
Natural disasters don’t just damage homes—they disrupt routines and diets. In Louisiana, many residents turn to shelf-stable foods after hurricanes, and over time, those habits stick. Staying healthy really becomes an uphill battle when life keeps getting interrupted.
Oklahoma – 40.0%
Food insecurity is a persistent problem in Oklahoma because many people find it hard to afford to eat healthy meals. So, high-calorie, low-cost food stands as a better option, especially if you’re on a fixed income. That choice plays a big role in the state’s growing obesity concerns.
Mississippi – 39.5%
In Mississippi, too, good food feels out of reach as it’s relatively expensive. Public programs meant to help residents often fall short in this state. This is when high prices create a cycle that’s hard to break, and health issues like obesity take shape.
Tennessee – 38.9%
With cities growing fast, Tennessee neighborhoods are seeing more fast food outlets than fresh markets. For busy families and full-time workers, grabbing something quick has now become a habit. That convenience quietly chips away at long-term health.
Alabama – 38.3%
If your day is spent at a desk and your town doesn’t have safe parks or sidewalks, staying active is a challenge. Combine that with rich, comforting Southern cuisine, and you’ll see how weight issues can sneak up on you in a state like Alabama.
Indiana – 37.7%
Indiana’s cozy lifestyle makes weight management feel tougher than it should. Here, cold and long winters keep people inside. It’s hard to stay active during those months. On top of that, convenient food is everywhere, and so is a higher BMI.
Arkansas – 37.4%
Imagine trying to eat better when your neighborhood doesn’t even have a full-service grocery store. That’s the reality for many in Arkansas. Without easy access to fresh produce, quick and processed meals fill the gap, and that takes a long-term toll.
Iowa – 37.4%
It’s ironic—living in a state rich in farming, yet finding yourself surrounded by processed foods. In Iowa, what’s grown locally isn’t always what ends up on dinner plates, and that disconnect often leads to less nutritious eating habits over time (and more belly issues).
Nebraska – 35.3%
As you age, staying active gets harder, and in Nebraska, it’s even worse for older adults. There are only a few senior-friendly fitness options. Without proper support, it becomes harder to take care of yourself, which includes keeping calories in check.
