In today's fast paced society, it seems impossible to slow down. Whether we're trying to rush our kids to school or running late for work - catching a breath seems too good to be true. As a result, we are driven towards fast food restaurants and couch potato futures. This has caused obesity statistics to sky rocket. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, "About two-thirds of adults in the United States are overweight; and almost one-third are obese."

So what exactly is the cause of this deadly epidemic? There are a number of contributing factors - video games being one of them. Technology has turned entertainment into more than just a few hours of temptation. Children are no longer playing outside and actively exercising. The days of softball leagues and swim meets may still exist, but rarely linger. Sitting in front of a television has become a therapeutic solution to the world's constant stress. Let's face it - most of us are inactive for the majority of the day. Adding sedentary video games is only making obesity worse. For this reason, we're starting to develop health risks at an early age. Diabetes, high blood pressure and even sleep apnea are lurking around the corner.

While most feel that activities such as video games are the main factor of obesity, it is evident that there are additional derivatives. Poor eating habits have also contributed to this constant struggle. We need to stop reaching for the Big Mac and start looking at the food pyramid - incorporating whole grains, vegetables and fruits into our diet. It is critical that we also get off of the couch and get some exercise. Need some entertainment and just can't see yourself going to the gym? Try an interactive video game such as Dance Dance Revolution. This involves your entire body, as you have to mimic dance moves on the screen. Despite the fact that it is still a video game, it involves constant movement and presents an opportunity to get your heart rate up. Fortunately, more exercise-themed games are becoming available.

Regardless of our how old we are, it is imperative that we stop obesity. If we're beginning to form these habits at an early age, obesity statistics are only going to rise. Think of your future, your health, your life. Are video games really worth it for just a few hours of fun? You can easily turn off the remote, but with obesity, there is no switch.