Of course it caught my eye when the World Health Organization predicted that the Dutch may be the only country in Western Europe to maintain or reduce obesity within the next decade. This article reviews the possible factors including: biking everywhere, “sober” eating, sports participation, and family meals.
As a resident I can identify deeper possible reasons including widespread access to affordable healthy food options, health insurance for everyone, more income equality, lower working hours, and an infrastructure and climate that supports reduced car use and outside recreational activities.
It is good food for thought to consider how societal, as well as individual, choices affect our weight and health.
On Frying and Fietsen: 5 Reasons the Dutch Aren’t Fat | Dutch Review
