Russians Putting on more Pounds

Russia is getting fat – too much high fat foods and not enough healthy ones combined with not exercising enough is the problem according to the Institute of Nutrition. The numbers show that 30-44 year old Russian men weigh about 2.4 kilograms, or 6 pounds, more than they did 12 years ago. Russian women, specifically those between the ages of 45-60 are heavier too. The average Russian weight has increased by 2 kilograms, between 4-5 pounds, in the last 10 years according to the Institute.

The studies have shown that 23% of the Russian population is obese and more than 55% over the age of 30 are overweight. Russian culture is not accepting of obesity in general, even as the population puts on pounds. Not only do overweight Russians face discrimination in jobs, it is also very difficult for them to shop for oversize clothes. One of the shops for tall and overweight people, Tri Tolstyaka, charges a lot more for their clothes than regular shops. A lot of overweight people will buy regular clothes and alter them instead.

The government does not seem to think there is a problem so there are no programs or initiatives in place to encourage healthy eating and living. So for the time being, Russians need to watch their weight on their own.

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