Horizon Season 2016 Episode 11 Why Are We Getting So Fat?
- June 7, 2016
Horizon is a long-running science documentary series that has been broadcast on BBC Two since 1964. The show is known for its exploration of cutting-edge scientific topics, and the latest season of the show tackles the question of why we are getting so fat. In episode 11 of season 2016, titled "Why Are We Getting So Fat?", the show looks at the various factors that have led to the global obesity epidemic.
The episode begins by examining the sheer scale of the problem. More than two billion people around the world are now overweight or obese, and the number is only continuing to rise. This has significant health implications, including an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
To understand why we are getting so fat, the show delves into the science behind food. It turns out that the modern food industry is designed to make us eat more than we need. Companies are constantly looking for ways to make their products more addictive, whether it is through adding sugar, salt, or other flavor enhancers. This means that we are consuming far more calories than we need, even when we think we are making healthy choices.
The episode also explores the role that our environment plays in shaping our eating habits. We are surrounded by cheap, high-calorie food, and it is often easier and more convenient to eat unhealthy foods than it is to prepare a nutritious meal. In addition, our increasingly sedentary lifestyles mean that we are burning fewer calories than ever before, exacerbating the problem of obesity.
The show introduces us to people who are trying to tackle the issue of obesity in innovative ways. From a chef who is working to make healthy food more appealing to children, to a town in Colorado that has implemented policies to encourage physical activity, the episode offers a glimmer of hope that the obesity epidemic can be reversed.
Overall, "Why Are We Getting So Fat?" is an eye-opening exploration of a pressing global issue. The episode is informative and engaging, with a great mix of scientific research, personal stories, and practical solutions. Whether you are struggling with your weight or just curious about the science of obesity, this episode of Horizon is well worth watching.