Are the Religious Prone to Obesity?

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Published studies have shown that religious tend to have lower incomes and lower education (on average). Both correlate as strongly to obesity. White religious folks tend to watch NASCAR and Fox news. I would venture to guess that similar stats can be gleaned - that NASCAR/Fox news fans are prone to obesity.

Joe of IL 5:30PM March 25, 2011

This research might apply to a certain area or population, but it wouldn't apply in my church community. There are so many variables to consider, and we all have choices to make whether we are in church or not. Obesity is a health issue and a social environment issue, not a faith issue. Churches can promote healthy behaviors, but whether someone is active in their church is not a measure of a tendency toward obesity. That is a judgment, not a fact. This researcher needs to spend more time studying what faith is all about - it isn't about the food and deserts.

Barb of MS 10:41AM March 24, 2011

I tend to agree with the explanations given to explain that phenomenon. I've heard many times, when inviting obese people to a Weight Loss Challenge, that they cannot attend because of Bible Study classes.
There could be another explanation: the body is neglected, the self image is not important because people who attend religious services are taught that vanity is a sin. So, taking care of your appearance seems to be a sin.
I also have observed something very strange: although you'd think that religious people would have their faith supporting them in hard times, there seem to be a high level of depression here in the South. 75% of the people who take my wellness evaluation are on some kind of anti-depressant.
Shouldn't it be the opposite? As a European and not a all religious person, I would have assumed the opposite... but you know what assuming does... :))
Have a beautiful evening.

Nadia of NC 7:15PM March 23, 2011