chapter 2 - the british bulge

“The Global News Network (GNN) is reporting a massive increase in both childhood and adult obesity in the month of January in the greater London area. Obesity, as defined by a BMI of over 30, has spiked a whopping 4% across the nation according to a recent survey. ‘This growth is unprecedented,’ says Dr. Margaret Kinsey, specialist in weight management and nutrition. ‘The U.K. has gone up 4% in the past decade, and now in the span of a month, the total percent of the population that’s obese has gone up from 31 to 35%. It is the winter season but we’re not experiencing a winter weight change. Something is seriously wrong as insulin necessities and obesity-related treatment are in a heightened demand. A study must be done to find the root cause of this development.’”

“You hearing this, George?” asked Isabelle from the living room.

“Hearing what?”

“A third of Brits are now obese. 4% increase in a month. Never happened at that rate before.”

“Too many crumpets or whatever they eat over there. Christmas weight gain is a serious issue for my clients so it doesn’t surprise me one bit.”

Isabelle turned back to to the TV to see a continued report.

“‘You look around here and you see big people, you know? You walk out on the street and all you see are guys and girls with wobbly bums and double chins walking ‘bout. It’s not new I’d say, but it’s more frequent than it’s ever been, that’s for sure. People I know have put on weight. I’ve put on a few pounds myself, to be honest. I got myself a bit of a belly hang going on and it’s kinda freakin’ me out. Sometimes you wonder if it’s something the goven’ment is putting in the water. I won’t consider it too much but it is weird.’ The words of local citizens of the London area speak for themselves as questions are raised about what’s causing the increase in weight. Back to you, Kevin.”

Isabelle got up to meet George in the kitchen.

“Maybe you should move to England. Plenty of fatties needing to lose weight there, apparently.”

“Isabelle, what are you taking about? We have more than enough fatties here in the U.S.”