What Obesity Week Means to Me

by | Nov 13, 2013 | blog

The upcoming Obesity Week 2013 conference has really got me thinking about where I’ve been and how far I’ve come. It also reminds me I’m not the only one struggling with weight. Over the past decade, U.S. obesity rates have skyrocketed.

Today, over one third of the U.S. adult population is obese and 17 percent of children are obese. As a society, we’ve misstepped somewhere along the way. I can say that because I used to be part of that statistic. Before receiving the blessing of going on The Biggest Loser, I was 400 pounds and my health was on a major downward spiral, but I got help. Granted, that help came in the form of a national television show.

I know most people won’t get the chance to participate in something like that, but every obese individual needs someone to step in and provide them with the realities of the battle they face and professional, safe advice on how to regain control of their health.

That’s where the Obesity Week conference comes in. This gathering of thousands of physicians, surgeons and public health professionals who are passionate about ending this epidemic is very exciting for me.

This serious health problem won’t go away if our nation’s health professionals aren’t involved and dedicated to the cause.

Our society doesn’t need miracle pills or fad diets. We need education on nutrition and exercise, based on real research. We need motivation and guidance from trained professionals. We need the support of family and friends.

Without these things, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I can’t say for certain that I’d be here at all today if I hadn’t lost the weight. It has not been an easy journey for me, but it’s great to see conferences like this taking place. I’m excited to share my story and passion for the NuStep at this awesome event.

Want to know more about my story? Check out this video

About O'Neal Hampton

After being diagnosed as a type 2 diabetic and weighing 420 pounds, O’Neal Hampton Jr. became a contestant during the 2010 season of NBC’s "The Biggest Loser." It was then that he was introduced to NuStep. Through the O'Neal Hampton Wellness Foundation, he educates others on the value and importance of exercise and nutrition. O’Neal Hampton Jr. is a NuStep spokesperson.