Getting Fat is in-grained in our national policy

There are many factors that contribute to ones state of health or lack thereof, both internal (emotional, habitual, hormonal, perceived value of quality, etc...) and external (agricultural policy, social programing and pressures, convenience, marketing, etc...) and I would suggest that the majority of those factors we have personal control over as a daily choice.

Yet there is such an overwhelming tide of influences and demands on us that we can so easily give in to the flow of the way of the world, and feel helpless, frustrated and isolated. Couple that with our ingrained national pride of individualism, the belief of "I can do it all by myself" and "I'm entitled to what makes me happy", and we are stuck in a pickle between, "its all my fault for my state of health" and "I can't do anything about my health, so why bother?".

So one of the most empowering ways to ultimately improve your health, is to step out of the flow of the way of the world and see where its going, whats driving it and what are your choices. In a word...AWARENESS. By educating your self about the internal and external factors that contribute to the health of you and those you interact with (a shocking revelation for some; You are part of an ecology, your health and life influences and is influenced by your internal and external environments...that donut isn't just unhealthy for you alone!) you will be more conscientious of your choices and the effects they have, will be more motivated to chose wisely and feel good about those choices!

That said, here is an assignment for your first step. Learn about the Governmental policies that that are contributing to the state of your dietary choices here in America.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYRa1G9A-bA
http://www.foodmatters.tv/

Then learn about some of the internal thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to your lifestyle and habits.
http://www.psychologyofeating.com/