150 years of dieting fads and still no quick fix

Advertisement

Posted: 01/25/2011

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The government is preparing to weigh in with new U.S. dietary guidelines next week.

So, the Library of Congress decided to take a look back by going into its archives and, with Weight Watchers International, gathering experts recently to discuss America's history of weight loss.

It turns out our obsession with weight and how to lose it dates back at least 150 years. What hasn't changed is the quest for an easy fix.

There was a low-carb diet as early as 1863. An obesity soap that "never fails to reduce flesh." A so-called Reduction Salt that pledged to "wash away your fat."

The government first offered advice for a balanced diet in 1894. In 1916 came the five food groups. Ideal height-weight charts showed up around World War II.

Diet foods quickly followed, as did weight loss support groups.

For all of that, two-thirds of Americans today are either overweight or obese, with childhood obesity tripling in the past three decades.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Copyright 2011 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

  • Comments
Advertisement

Health


  1. Higher SPF not necessarily better

    Higher SPF not necessarily better

    Sunbathers this summer will find new sunscreen labels that are designed to make the products more effective and easier to use.

    • FDA warns teens against tanning beds

      FDA warns teens against tanning beds

      If you're hoping to get a jump start on your tan this summer, the Food and Drug Administration has a warning for you.

      • Foods that make your skin glow

        Foods that make your skin glow

        Want your skin to look great for the summer?

        There are a few things you can do between now and then to improve your glow.

        Trending Now


        1. Towson woman reconnects with OK family

          Towson woman reconnects with OK family

          A local woman reconnects with family in Moore, Ok.  

        2. Find loved ones with 'Safe & Well'

          Find loved ones with 'Safe & Well'

          After a disaster, it is always important to let your friends and family know that you are safe.  The American Red Cross has setup a website called "Safe & Well" for times like these.

        3. Four men charged in prostitution sting

          Four men charged in prostitution sting

          Anne Arundel County Police have charged four men as part of an undercover prostitution operation in Linthicum.

        4. Dog thrown from car; sent to rescue

          Dog thrown from car; sent to rescue

          Nemo is just one of three severe animal abuse cases BARCS has seen in less than a week.

        • Stay Connected