New survey ranks Arkansas as 3rd "fattest" state in country

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KATV) — A new WalletHub report lists Arkansas among the most obese states across the nation.

The study, which measured sugary-beverage intake, healthcare costs and overweight population, ranks Arkansas as the third "fattest" state.

Robin Gipson, a registered dietitian with Arkansas Children's Hospital, helps families struggling with weight and obesity issues daily.

"Seeing kids in school with my kids or friends and family or people in my community it just breaks my heart," Gipson said.

Arkansas is 20th in youth obesity rates for children ages 10-17, according to the National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH).

She stressed the importance of teamwork and for adults to set an example for kids on a proper lifestyle whether it's exercising or eating.

"From the mom, dad, grandparents, whoever the caregivers are, down to the kiddos, the children, they really need to be making changes together in regard to what they're eating, how they're cooking it, what portion size they're having. Not everybody's portions need to look the same," Gipson said.

Brandon White blames cost and convenience on the nationwide obesity issue.

"Sometimes I don't eat as healthy as I should you know but I'm trying to fix that," he said. "You can go to McDonald's and go get a burger. It may cost one or two dollars but it cost about nine dollars to get a salad."

In the River Market food court, Phoebe Glass is cooking up what appears to overly fatty foods.

But looks can be deceiving.

"We try to trick people. We do Sloppy Joes and cheesy fries but it's made out of vegetables," Glass said.

The vegan way of eating isn't for everyone, however Glass is just trying to do her part in thee fight against obesity.

"I was 50 pounds overweight, went vegan and in two months it was gone so that makes a humongous difference. That's my passion," Glass said.

The NSCH reports that the United States spends $14 billion on childhood obesity alone and between $147 and $210 billion on adult obesity annually.

TOP FATTEST STATES

1. Mississippi

2. West Virginia

3. Arkansas

4. Kentucky

5. Tennessee

6. Louisiana

7. Alabama

8. South Carolina

9. Oklahoma

10. Texas