The Dear Dr.MOZ Baby Blog

Dear Dr.MOZ,

As I’m sure you’ve already heard by now, there’s a new study out showing that obesity can be “socially contagious.” It found that your view of obesity and your dedication to living a healthy lifestyle can be negatively influenced by your social network. I think all the obesity research that has been coming out lately is making me fat…stress makes you gain weight you know! This latest study seems a little far-fetched to me…what’s your take on it?

Cheers,

Dan

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Hey there Dan,

I found it interesting, but let’s not forget that I am a moose so I’m easily impressed. The study might seem a little far-fetched at first, but we’ve certainly heard of a lot of other bizarre medical findings relating to gaining (and losing) weight that just might turn out to be true. Here are a few strange examples:

1) Shaving Can Make us Gain Weight
Chemicals called “parabens” commonly found in shampoos, soaps, shaving gels and many other consumer products have been shown to effect our natural hormone production. Some say that parabens (methyl, propyl, butyl) can lead to weight gain, but it still up for debate if these estrogen-like chemicals cause other health problems. I’ll keep you posted on future findings, but until then here are a few links to what others have to say. (FDA on Parabens, Ideal Bite on Parabens)

2) Pets for Health!
Research shows that owning a pet reduces stress and lowers our blood pressure.

Those with dogs are also shown to be more likely to get out and exercise with their furry friends which helps keep the pounds off as well. This assumes that the stress caused by your pet urinating on the rug doesn’t outweigh the benefits, but you could aways get a fish! (Health Benefits of Fish as Pets on About.com)

3) Does Mississippi Make People Fat?
I know what you’re thinking, you thought it was Alaska all along didn’t you? According to the CDC, the south has seen the worst increase in obesity with Mississippi leading the pack. A shocking 67% of the state’s population is considered obese or overweight and the surrounding states of Alabama, Louisiana, and Arkansas aren’t far behind. Is this proof that our social group does influence our lifestyle and weight, or could it be linked to other socioeconomic factors? Let us know what you think in the comments bubble above.

There you have it Dan, studies shows us that there are a number of factors other than food and exercise that effect our weight and the health of those around us. Lucky for us, the social and environmental factors can always be overcome by our own daily choices and priorities. Instead of simply identifying and fearing the negative health factors around us, we might also consider becoming a more positive influence with those that could use a nudge in the right direction. I think today’s post from Seth’s Blog says it best:

“put dynamics in place that reinforce the ideas you’d like to see spread. Celebrate the heroes. Make it easy for those ideas to spread…”

Have fun and stay healthy,
Dr.MOZ