The combination of insufficient exercise and poor nutrition can lead to obesity. Many people think that there would be fewer overweight people in California and in Santa Barbara County than in the rest of the United States, but that is not the case. About 30% of Santa Barbara County adults are overweight compared with 31% in California and 32% in the United States. The Healthy People 2000 objective is 20% or less. About 35% of adults indicated that they are currently trying to lose weight.

When we look at exercise, nutrition, and obesity in our children, the picture is not very different from what is found for adults. About 28% of our children aged 12 to 17 are overweight and only 10% eat the recommended quantity of fruits and vegetables. Clearly we can do a lot to improve these lifestyle factors that are so closely linked to our health status for both adults and children.

Summary: Nutrition

• 30% of adults and 28% of children are overweight

• 35% of adults are currently trying to lose weight