America's appetite is out of control. Yes, we have an obesity epidemic. But far more disconcerting is the rampant lack of understanding and compassion for the daily, minute-to-minute struggle that the vast majority contend with being overweight or obese.

Politicians eager to raise more revenue for dwindling coffers caused in part by higher medical costs associated with obesity are now pigging out on the idea of implementing a "fat tax" of high caloric, sugary and fatty foods to curb American's unhealthy appetites.

The vast majority of Americans still consider their food choices as a personal matter and exercise of individual freedom that should not be regulated or interfered with. That's understandable, but the consequences are plain to see.

Eating too much and exercising too little, considered the root of obesity, are not the only probable culprits. Here are some other factors that are often overlooked.

Eating too much and exercising too little, considered the root of obesity, are not the only probable culprits. Here are some other factors that are often overlooked.

To be sure, obesity rates only increased over the past decade, continuing the epidemic rise that has progressed over the past half-century. But hidden underneath the scary statistics is quite a bit of good news.

The real issue for most Americas isn't the type of diet, but the quality of their diet. Processed junk loaded with fat, sugar, salt and chemicals doesn't satisfy you nutritionally ...

Reversing the obesity epidemic needs to start with individuals taking responsibility. But willpower alone won't do it. People don't make decisions in vacuums.

Consider the language we use to talk about obesity. The "war" on obesity. The "epidemic" of obesity. It's like the saying, "what you resist, persists."

ATLANTA — Are Americans becoming more honest about their weight? That theory could explain why the gap appears to be closing in what people say...