Arkansas Ranks In Top 10

We've finally ranked in the top of one of these studies . . . but not for a good reason. Arkansas ranked number 8 in adult obesity rates according to a study released Tuesday.

Mississippi was the heaviest state. Almost thirty two percent of its adult population is obese. Colorado is the leanest state with only 18.4 percent of it's population obese. Arkansas has a an obesity rate of 28.1 percent. That means about 3 out of every ten people in the state are obese.

Why is this? The study says it's because of gradual lifestyle changes. We're eating differently, becoming less active.

My observation is that the five fattest states are mostly southern states: Mississippi (31.7 percent), West Virginia (30.6 percent), Alabama (30.1 percent), Louisiana (29.5 percent) and South Carolina (29.2 percent). The five leanest states are mostly northern states: Colorado (18.4 percent), Hawaii (20.7 percent), Connecticut (20.8 percent), Massachusetts (20.9 percent) and Vermont (21.1 percent).

Could it be because of our eating habits? I guess the old stereotypes of fried chicken and mashed potatoes is partially true here in Arkansas. Also, we, like most states, have a sedentary lifestyle. I notice that Colorado attracts outdoorsy types, but Arkansas does too. Any ideas?